News

The National Bar Institute (“NBI”) Board of Directors held its 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 Board of Directors Meetings at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada during the National Bar Association 99^th Annual Conference. The 2023-2024 NBI Board of Directors convened in the morning to close out the program year and the 2024-2025 NBI Board of Directors met in the afternoon to welcome new NBI Directors, elect NBI Officers, and plan meetings for the upcoming year. This structured approach ensured that the organization remains forward-thinking and well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The NBI Annual Membership Meeting kicked off with Dr. Walter Sutton, Jr., Chair of the NBI Board of Directors, and committee Chairs sharing annual reports, providing a comprehensive overview of the past year’s accomplishments and setting the stage for the year ahead. The NBI membership approved and adopted the proposed amendments to the NBI Bylaws to ensure the organization remains dynamic and responsive to its members’ needs.

A highlight of the day was the election of six (6) new Directors to the NBI Board of Directors. Norma Hutcheson, Esq., Antoinette M. “Toni” Jackson, Esq., David Green, Esq., Vickie E. Turner, Esq., Kwamina Williford, Esq. and Belinda Stith, Esq., were elected commencing at the National Bar Association Annual Convention.

Following the NBI Annual Membership meeting, the NBI Membership Committee hosted a special luncheon for the NBI Life Members offering a perfect setting for networking and celebration. The luncheon underscored the strong sense of community and commitment among our members.

Overall, the NBI Annual Membership meeting was a resounding success, filled with productive discussions, meaningful connections, and a shared vision for the future. The energy and enthusiasm of the NBI Life Members were palpable, leaving everyone inspired and motivated.

We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Affiliates Scholarship Award! Each of these exceptional students will receive a $5,000 scholarship and participate in the Bar Passage Success Program.

Meet the 2024 Affiliates Scholarship Award Recipients:

Chelsea C. Jones
Suffolk University Law School
Boston, MA
Region I

Darielle Matthews
Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University
Hempstead, NY
Region II

Jessica Dufort
Rutgers University School of Law
Jersey City, NJ
Region III

Elijah Winborne
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, MD
Region IV

Chanté R. Barré
Southern University Law Center.
New Orleans, LA
Region V

Ashton S. Edward
University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College
Louisville, KY
Region VI

Leah S. Hall
University of Illinois at Chicago School of Law
Chicago, IL
Region VII

Jaylen Riley
Saint Louis University School of Law
St. Louis, MO
Region VIII

Nathan J. Lessa
University of California College of the Law San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
Region IX

Angela Griego
University of New Mexico School of Law
Albuquerque, NM
Region X

Jo’Anna Clayton
Samford University Cumberland  School of Law
Orlando, FL
Region XI

Maurice Roberson
Georgetown University Law Center
Upper Marlboro, MD
Region XII

Congratulations to these outstanding students! We are excited to support them as they embark on the next phase of their legal education through the Bar Passage Success Program.

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition recently brought together nine (9) exceptional high school students, each demonstrating their dedication to justice and equality. This event, steeped in the inspiring legacy of Dr. King, provided a platform for these young advocates to showcase their talents and passion.

The competition was fierce, and the students’ speeches were nothing short of remarkable. Each participant brought their unique perspective and voice to the stage, addressing critical issues and advocating for positive change. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and a shared commitment to the ideals that Dr. King championed.

Among the impressive participants, three (3) students emerged as the top winners, captivating the judges and audience alike with their eloquence and conviction:

1. Caleb Winbish from Region XI (Orlando, FL) earned the 1st prize with a $5,000 scholarship. Caleb’s powerful speech resonated deeply, as he articulated a vision for justice that was both compelling and inspiring.
2. Jordyn Pinkins from Region II (Brooklyn, NY) secured the 2nd prize and a $3,000 scholarship. Jordyn’s heartfelt presentation highlighted personal stories and broader societal issues, striking a chord with everyone present.
3. Sanaa Holston from Region IV (Bowie, MD) received the 3rd prize along with a $2,000 scholarship. Sanaa’s persuasive advocacy and moving narrative showcased her deep understanding of the challenges faced by many and her unwavering commitment to addressing them.

The event was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of young voices dedicated to making a difference. It underscored the importance of empowering the next generation to carry forward the torch of justice and equality. The students’ performances were a testament to their hard work, passion, and the enduring influence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

As the event concluded, the audience left inspired and hopeful, with a renewed belief in the power of youth advocacy. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition not only honored Dr. King’s legacy but also highlighted the bright future ahead, led by these remarkable young individuals.

Yale Law School recently celebrated the distinguished career of Associate Dean Mike Thompson, who retired at the end of the 2024 academic year after 34 years of dedicated service. Dean Thompson was honored at events such as the Diversity Homecoming in 2023 and the bicentennial community gathering. His farewell address emphasized the lasting connections formed at Yale. Dean Heather K. Gerken praised his ability to connect with students and alumni, noting his significant contributions and mentorship through various challenges, including major renovations and the COVID-19 pandemic.

In recognition of his impact, a portrait of Dean Thompson was unveiled and installed at Yale Law School. Congratulations to Dean Thompson on his remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to the community.