NYLS’s chapter of the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) has won the 2019–20 “Chapter of the Year” award for the Northeast Region of the National Black Law Students Association (NEBLSA).
The award honors chapters whose outstanding community service, educational outreach, and minority retention activities exemplify the mission of the National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA): to increase the number of culturally responsible Black and minority attorneys who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.
Throughout the year, NYLS BLSA sponsors numerous activities and programs, including academic workshops on topics such as memo writing and outlining, “Black Lawyers Matter” fundraising and social advocacy, alumni mixers, a mentorship program, and the “Dinner With a Lawyer” networking series.
These experiences create a strong community that chapter President Jasmine Bridges 3L notes is one of her favorite aspects of BLSA. “Our group is very supportive of each other, which I think is really important,” Bridges said. “Most of us are first generation, so having BLSA and these resources has been really incredible.”
The group’s hard work and enthusiasm are recognized around campus.
“For many years, the NYLS Black Law Students Association has been a prominent student organization within the school, has been led by committed members of its Executive Board, has earned the devotion and commitment of our students, and has contributed greatly to life at our school,” said Professor David Chang, one of the organization’s faculty advisors.
“Through all of this, the NYLS Black Law Students Association has captured the respect and admiration of students and BLSA organizations at other schools throughout the northeast region, and beyond.”
The award was presented at NEBLSA’s 52nd Regional Convention, held at NYLS and Hotel Pennsylvania in January 2020.