Black Law Students Association
The Stanford Black Law Student Association (BLSA) is a student-run organization that strives to provide career and academic support for students of African descent and forge alliances among BLSA members, alumni, faculty of color, and other law students in the Bay Area. We provide a space for students to engage with issues impacting black communities, both through discussion and community service. Stanford BLSA is a chapter of the National BLSA organization that includes more than 200 member law schools. All members of the Stanford community are encouraged to participate in our events.
The 4th Annual Black History Month Gala
Friday, February 17, 2017
Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center
6:00 PM Open Bar | 7:15 PM Three Course Dinner
Keynote Speaker: Angela Rye
Formal Attire
Strength in Unity
Stanford Law community in support of the Black Lives Matter movement and all peaceful protests to end systematic racial violence
Within A Community.
Respect. Listen. Learn.
Stanford BLSA students are active members of the larger Stanford community.
Lasting Bonds.
BLSA is not just a student group.
It's a family.
Faculty Connection.
BLSA works very closely with the Law School administration on minority student recruiting and retention, financial aid, and minority faculty hiring.
Academic Support
One of Stanford BLSA’s top priorities is to support its members’ academic achievement. In recent years, we have held an introductory study skills session to assist 1Ls with their transition to law school. BLSA members also conduct exam prep sessions for each class in the 1L curriculum.
Community Engagement
BLSA is committed to identifying and articulating the needs and viewpoints of the nation’s black communities by hosting forums for discussion, including our annual conference as well as speakers throughout the academic year. BLSA also hosts community service events that allow our members to engage with underserved populations throughout the Bay Area.
Career Guidance
Stanford BLSA holds events with various law firms throughout the year in order to help our students become familiar with a wide range of career options. This past year BLSA hosted panels discussing the unique issues facing lawyers of color, including the legal hiring process, the culture at large law firms, attorney retention, and diversity in the legal profession. Stanford BLSA members have access to successful alumni from large law firms, state and federal government, and public interest organizations. These alumni return to campus and give back to Stanford BLSA by taking the time to network with members and discuss their careers in small group settings.
Social Networking
Stanford BLSA coordinates and participates in a number of social activities to encourage closer ties between its members and connect to the broader black community at Stanford. BLSA “families” connect 1L, 2L, and 3L students to share experiences and provide guidance. We also co-host social and academic events with other minority groups at the law school and throughout the University. BLSA attends the Alumni of Color Reception during Alumni Weekend and participates in activities with other Bay Area BLSAs, connecting members to alumni, fellow students, and other attorneys.
Events
2017-18 Board Members
Co-Presidents
Savannah Haynes
Lincoln Mitchell
Vice President
Biola Macaulay
Treasurer
Leon Cain
Communications
Devon Gray
Academic Development Co-Chairs
Alyssa Wright
Britnay Riley
Community Development & Social Co-Chair
Shelby Hart-Armstrong
Professional Development Chair
Alyssa Dunn
Corporate Liaison
Camden McRae
Community Action Chair
Makeba Ruahinduwa
Hyatt Mustefa