Strength in Unity: Empowering Black Communities in the Fight for Democracy
Saturday, April 20, 2024
from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
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This event brought together Black alumni, current students, faculty, and staff for thought-provoking discussions and meaningful connections. Attendees will explore harnessing the power of unity to empower Black communities and strengthen our collective voice in the fight for democracy.
Hosted by the Black Law Students Association (BLSA), Office of Advancement; Office of Career and Professional Development; Office of the Dean; and Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Affinity Relations.
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event Schedule and Presenters:
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9:00 a.m. — Continental Breakfast, Warren Lobby
9:45 a.m. — Welcome Remarks, Ceremonial Classroom, Warren NT01
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-Dean Roger A. Fairfax, Jr.
10:15 - 11:15 a.m. — Panel One,ÌýCeremonial Classroom, Warren NT01
Guardians of Justice: The Crucial Role of Black Lawyers in Upholding Democracy
Drawing from their diverse backgrounds in law, advocacy, academia, and public service, panelists will explore the pivotal role that Black lawyers play in advancing civil and voting rights, challenging systemic injustices, and shaping legal frameworks that safeguard democracy.
Faculty Moderator: Cynthia Jones (WCL/JD ’89), Professor of Law
Alumni Panelists:
- Senior Director, Campaigns and Advocacy, Hip Hop Caucus
-), Vice Chair, Prince George’s County Council
-), Executive Partner, Holland and Knight
-), Counsel, Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs
-), Executive Director, National Association for State Community Services Programs
11:15 - 11:30 a.m. — Break
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. — Panel Two,ÌýCeremonial Classroom, Warren NT01
Empowerment through Entrepreneurship: Black-Owned Business Leading Transformation
This dynamic conversation will explore the power of entrepreneurship as a vehicle for socioeconomic advancement and highlight the transformative impact of Black-owned businesses on local economies and beyond. Drawing from their firsthand experiences as founders, investors, and advocates, the panelists will explore how entrepreneurship serves as a catalyst for social and economic transformation, advancing the overarching theme of unity and empowerment.
Faculty Moderator: Chaz Brooks, Assistant Professor and Co-Director of the Entrepreneurship Law Clinic
Alumni Panelists:
- Co-Founder and CEO, Goodfynd
- ) Co-Founder of LegallyBlack
- Co-Owner and COO, Wondry Wine
),Ìý Co-Founder of LegallyBlack
- ), Founder and CEO, Flow Forward Capital
- ), CEO and Founder, Hyper Skin
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12:30 - 2:00 p.m. — Awards Luncheon, Claudio Grossman Hall, Yuma T01
Presenters: Asst. Dean Lisa Sonia Taylor, and
- 2024 Rising Star Award Recipient is
- 2024 Joseph H. Hairston AwardÌý Recipient is
- 2024 North Star Award Recipient is
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2:00 - 3:00 p.m. — Dean's Fireside Chat with , Former NBA Coach and General Manager and current Vice President of Player Development for the Washington Wizards, Claudio Grossman Hall, Yuma T01
Panel Moderators:
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Panel 1 Alumni Presenters:
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Panel 2 Alumni PResenters:ÌýÌý
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Dean's Fireside Chat Presenters:
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