Students from Niagara University’s Vincentian Center for Justice, in collaboration with the LSAT study group club and NU Peace Action NY, attended the 20th annual National Black Pre-Law Conference and Job Fair, Nov. 14-15, 2024. The conference provides aspiring Black lawyers with access to information, resources, and contacts that will aid them in their path to law school.
The students attended sessions including the Charles Hamilton Houston Symposium, presented by the National Black Law Students Association. Speakers explored the significant legal implications of the landmark case "Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard" and its potential impact on the future of affirmative action in law school admissions.
They also heard from prominent leaders such as Alphonso David, president and CEO of the Global Black Economic Forum; Bryan R. Parker, CEO and co-founder of Legal Innovators; and Jamel Adkins-Sharif, co-founder of Educan Trust, LLC.
The conference wrapped up with an awards and pinning ceremony, during which individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing the legal profession and promoting opportunities for Black students in law were honored. Aspiring lawyers, including the NU students, received pins symbolizing their commitment to pursuing law and reaffirming their dedication to the principles of justice and equity.
“As I stood before a variety of successful Black lawyers, I could not help but look around at my future colleagues and get emotional,” said Kyla Prince, president of NU’s Peace Action NY organization. “It is incredibly empowering to be surrounded by my peers and all the amazing Black leaders who came before me. The ceremony provided not only a sense of achievement, but also an invigorating sense of purpose, reminding all present of the critical role we will play in shaping a more inclusive and just legal system for generations to come.”