On Friday, April 4, five students from NYLS’s Black Law Students Association (BLSA) chapter brought inspiration to students at George Westinghouse High School in downtown Brooklyn. As part of a new “Pathways to Law” initiative, BLSA members engaged with nearly 100 high school seniors to offer insight into different pathways to law school, discuss opportunities for people from underrepresented communities, and provide practical advice for pursuing a legal career.
The event was spearheaded by Christina Harris ’26, the incoming Vice President of BLSA, who recognized the opportunity for community outreach and designed the program. She was joined by fellow BLSA members Stephanie Pierre-Louis ’26, incoming President; Helima Greene ’26, incoming Attorney General; Bianca Vertus ’26; and Maya Page ’27.
“It was really encouraging to see how interested the students were in law,” said Harris. “This is why community outreach is so important, and it was great to help make that connection for them. I am grateful for the support of the School and for the space to create programming rooted in service and community. I’m excited to continue this program through our BLSA chapter for next year and hopefully it remains for as long as it can!”
NYLS BLSA members also guided the high school students through a hands-on mock negotiation exercise. Afterward, they led a thoughtful discussion, where they explored the unique challenges Black students and professionals may face in the legal field and shared advice on overcoming barriers, creating work-life balance, and finding support networks. The program concluded with a Constitutional Law Trivia game and an engaging Q&A session.
Professor Kirk D. Burkhalter ’04, Dean for Evening Division Engagement, Professor of Law, and Director of the 21st Century Policing Project at NYLS, attended the event in support of BLSA. He shared his personal pathway to the field of law with the high school students and offered some insight into the legal education and career experience. “I cannot express how proud I am of these students for designing and executing such an impactful community service/pipeline program. I was honored that they asked me to participate,” he said.
