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The National Bar Association (NBA) Commercial Law Section (CLS) has long been dedicated to fostering excellence, promoting diversity, and creating opportunities for Black attorneys across the legal industry. One of its most impactful initiatives is the CLS Pipeline Project, which is designed to support and prepare the next generation of legal professionals. This program focuses on addressing the historical underrepresentation of African Americans in corporate law by providing mentorship, resources, and real-world experience to law students and early-career attorneys.

Why the Pipeline Project Matters 

The legal profession remains one of the least diverse sectors in the U.S. Despite progress in some areas, African Americans continue to be underrepresented in law firms and corporate legal departments, particularly in leadership roles. The NBA CLS Pipeline Project seeks to address these disparities by fostering long-term development and growth opportunities for aspiring Black attorneys.  

The NBA CLS’s Pipeline Project is more than just a movement toward greater representation, diversity, and equity in the legal profession. It is also an opportunity to build relationships and do good for those that are less fortunate. In 2024, the NBA CLS partnered with the Southwest Region of the National Black Law Students Association (BLSA) and a charitable nonprofit called Foster Love. As part of the 2024 Corporate Council conference, the NBA-CLS organized an interactive team-building event where we assembled, decorated, and donated over two dozen skateboards for local foster children. This event allowed local law students to interact and network with practicing lawyers while making a positive difference in the community.  

By investing in the success of young Black attorneys, the Pipeline Project is helping to create a legal industry that is more inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the diverse society it serves. For more information about the Pipeline Project and how to get involved, please visit the NBA CLS website.  

To learn more, please visit:  https://nbacls.com

On October 8, 2024, Vickie Turner, a dedicated Board Member, was honored with the prestigious Lifetime Laureate Award at the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame. This special recognition celebrates individuals for their outstanding business success, professional achievements, and exceptional contributions to the San Diego community through philanthropy. 

 The Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership and dedication have made a significant impact, not just in their industries but also in the lives of those around them. Vickie’s commitment to education, economic empowerment, and community development has touched countless lives in San Diego. Her passion for giving back, along with her professional accomplishments, makes her an ideal recipient of this lifetime honor.

By becoming a Lifetime Laureate, Vickie joins a distinguished group of leaders who have made lasting contributions to their fields and communities. 

On September 14, 2024, the National Bar Institute held a virtual Orientation via Zoom for its Bar Passage Success Program, with 19 enthusiastic students in attendance. Hosted by Belinda Stith and Charlyn Stanberry, the session provided an opportunity for participants to ask questions, introduce themselves.

Students received a comprehensive overview of the program, structured to provide exclusive study materials and guidance on their state bar exams from JD Advising. They asked insightful questions about the program structure and gained clarity on what Phase One, starting on February 1, 2025, would entail.

Belinda and Charlyn facilitated discussions on effective study techniques, time management, and mental health strategies, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.

The Orientation marked the beginning of each student’s journey to be equipped with resources aimed at helping them obtain a successful state bar examination result. Stay tuned for further updates as the program progresses!

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.