The Massachusetts Bar Association is proud to announce the Diversity, Equity
and Inclusion Committee (DEIC) Mentoring Initiative. The MBA DEIC Mentoring
Initiative aims to enhance diversity within the legal profession by providing
support and resources to historically marginalized law students preparing for
the bar exam. Through a series of informal mentoring events, we strive to create
equity and support for these students.
The inaugural MBA DEIC Mentoring Initiative event will take place
on Thursday, Oct. 17, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This event will offer participants
valuable insights into free resources, information on recent changes to the bar
exam and opportunities to hear from esteemed speakers, including:
- Shawn Healy, Ph.D., Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers
- Kandace Kukas, executive director of the
Massachusetts Board of Bar Examiners
- Members of the MBA DEIC
- Hon. Elizabeth N. Dewar, associate justice of the Supreme Judicial
Court
The event is open to all law students, but its primary focus is on leveling
the playing field for those who have historically had limited access to
resources, study aids and mentorship. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding
of financial and educational resources, mentorship opportunities and updates on
the bar exam. They will also hear inspiring stories from leaders who have
navigated and excelled in this demanding profession.
Mentorship is particularly crucial for law students facing unique challenges,
such as being first-generation students, students of color or from historically
marginalized communities. According to the Minority Corporate Counsel
Association (MCCA), progress in diversity representation in Big Law has been
minimal since 2010. For example, the number of Black/African American attorneys
increased by less than 1% and female attorneys by less than 5%, and only 3.9%
identified as LGBTQ+. Additionally, first-generation students often encounter
equity gaps that can hinder their advancement in the legal field.
This program is free to the legal community. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be
provided at a reception directly following the program.
Registration is required by 5 p.m. on Tuesday,
Oct. 15, to participate in this program.
Faculty:
Shayla Mombeleur, Esq., Program Co-chair
Todd & Weld LLP, Boston
Taneekah Freeman, Deputy Director of DEI Training, Program Co-chair
Massachusetts Trial Court Office of Court Management, Boston
Hon. Elizabeth N. Dewar, Associate Justice, Panelist
Supreme Judicial Court, Boston
Shawn Healy, Ph. D., Panelist
Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers | MassLOMAP, Boston
Kandace Kukas, Esq., Panelist
Board of Bar Examiners, Boston