On March 26, Elon University School of Law hosted the African-American Male Leadership Summit of the Beta Epsilon Boule. Held annually to support the educational and professional advancement of young African-American males and to provide positive role models and mentorship opportunities, the summit included more than forty students, Boule members, and members of the legal community this year.
Twenty African-American male high school students attended the summit. They heard presentations from law school dean George R. Johnson, Jr. and assistant professor of law Andy Haile, attorneys Charles Blackmon and Frankie Jones, Jr., representing the law firms Tuggle Duggins & Meschan, P.A. and Smith Moore Leatherood LLP, respectively, Elon Law’s associate dean for academic affairs, Catherine Dunham, assistant dean for admissions, Sharon Gaskin, and director of career services, Chris Smith.
The day’s activities also included Elon Law students who supported the summit by providing tours to participants. Elon Law tour guides included: Allan Blackwell, L’10; Jonathan Metcalf, L’12; David Morrow, L’10; Ricky Watson, L’11; Reginaldo Williams, L’11, and Elon Law alumnus Max Armfield, L’09.
George R. Johnson, Jr. Dean of Elon Law, thanked all those who participated in the summit.
“It’s never too early to encourage young people to begin thinking about their interests, about the steps required to enter into legal education, and about the responsibilities and opportunities that such a vocation entails,” Johnson said. “There is widespread acknowledgement that the legal community should do more to reach out and support the entrance of minorities into the profession, and today’s summit is just one small way, among a number of programs we hold each year, that Elon Law is encouraging underrepresented persons to consider careers in law.”
Don Willis, Program Coordinator for the Beta Epsilon Boulé, was very pleased with this year’s Leadership Summit.
“We appreciate the enthusiasm and commitment of Dean Johnson, the faculty and staff of the Elon University School of Law, to the cause of helping young African American males,” Willis said. “The exposure to ideas and opportunities afforded by this enriching experience will prove invaluable as these young men continue to explore the range of educational and career opportunities.”
Sigma Pi Phi fraternity, known as the Boulé, is the oldest Greek-letter organization comprised primarily of African American men. The Boulé has more than 5,000 members and 119 chapters throughout the United States and the Caribbean. Its membership consists of men who are leaders, making lasting contributions to their communities, society and the world.
The Beta Epsilon Boulé is made up of individuals from the Greater Greensboro and Guilford County Area.
Click here for a report on Elon Law’s Diversty Day 2010, held February 27.
