For more than 50 years, the National Black Law Students Association (BLSA) has promoted and promoted the professional needs and goals of black law students.
The Georgia State Chapter of Ronald J. Freeman was particularly influential as the College of Law was ranked among the most diverse in the country by the National Jurist and the Black Student’s Guide to Law Schools and Firms.
“BLSA is involved in everything in the state of Georgia, so getting involved was important to me,” said BLSA Treasurer James Dean (JD ’21). It is very important and encouraging to see the representation of people who look like me. “
Dean got involved in his freshman year as a member of BLSA to help in any way he could. In his sophomore year he became secretary and that year treasurer.
Dean and other BLSA members serve law students at Spelman College and Morehouse College.
Part of Dean’s motivation to become more involved with BLSA was the support he received through mock exams and networking events. Now he has the opportunity to offer the same level of support to incoming students.
“I think I’d probably be a little lost without her, maybe a little less focused,” said Dean. “BLSA has always been a safe place to meet new people and get resources to help you with your legal career. It really just gives you the knowledge to go out into the world and be successful. “
Dean’s interests are not limited to BLSA. He is also President of the Sports and Entertainment Law Society and participates in bogus trials as a member of the Student Trial Lawyers Association. However, his work with BLSA always has a place on Dean’s schedule.
“It’s very important,” he said. “BLSA did things for me that it didn’t have to. Even though I’m busy, I can always find time for BLSA.”
Written by Alex Resnak
