Category: Student News

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) congratulations Brooke Gordon, the 2024 winner of The Different STEM Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Competition. The Competition was held at the Law School March 22-23 and was a component of the Sports, Technology, Entertainment and Media (STEM) Conference. The Different STEM Conference featured subject matter experts from sports, technology, entertainment, media, business, and law.

The Name Image & Likeness (NIL) Competition was an interdisciplinary contest that intersected sports, entertainment, branding, marketing, business, and law. The event was designed to challenge various skills across the fluid landscape in which NIL, endorsement, and promotional deals exist. Participants used creative, analytical, critical thinking, persuasive, and presentation skills. The experience was designed to make participants develop skills which can be applied towards their professional and entrepreneurial pursuits, as well as network with current practitioners and develop new relationships.  

Brooke did an amazing job with her NIL pitches and zealously advocated for the proposed deals she crafted for her student-athlete clients. She demonstrated exemplary creativity in addressing the complex legal issues surrounding name, image, and likeness rights. Thank you to the other competitors: Natasha Torrence, Jordon Robinson, and Dwayne “DJ” Brown, for participating; they showcased legal acumen and analytical abilities. Each competitor demonstrated a high level of proficiency and dedication, and each submission and presentation was truly impressive.

Congratulations to Brooke Gordon for her outstanding achievement, and thank you to all the participants for their hard work and dedication.

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) is thrilled to announce the 2023-2024 dynamic team – the Student Ambassadors at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School! A 15+ year tradition, these outstanding individuals have been selected to represent the student body as ambassadors.

The mission of an AJMLS Student Ambassador is to strive to improve the quality of the law school through professionalism, dedicated service, and a direct partnership with the Office of Admissions. These individuals play a vital role by sharing their AJMLS experience to prospective students as well as representing AJMLS throughout the academic year.

Congratulations to Our Ambassadors!

Let’s give a warm welcome to these exceptional individuals who are ready to make a positive impact on the Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School community. We can’t wait to see the great things they’ll accomplish together!

At Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS), success stories unfold, and SBA President and part-time 3L student, Ricky Panayoty, recently added a remarkable achievement to the school’s legacy. Ricky secured the second-place position in the Black Entertainment and Sports Lawyers Association (BESLA) Name Image and Likeness (NIL) Writing Competition and accepted the honor at the BESLA 2023 Conference that was held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

The BESLA NIL Writing Competition: A Platform for Legal Brilliance

The BESLA NIL Writing Competition is a prestigious event that invites law students to showcase their legal prowess by delving into the complex and evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness rights. This competition, hosted by the Black Entertainment and Sports Lawyers Association, seeks to recognize and reward exceptional legal writing on issues related to NIL in the realms of entertainment and sports.

Ricky Panayoty’s Winning Contribution

Ricky Panayoty, a dedicated part-time 3L student at AJMLS, rose to the challenge and presented an insightful and well-researched essay that captured the attention of the BESLA judges. His work demonstrated a keen understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding NIL rights, particularly in the context of the entertainment and sports industries.

AJMLS: Nurturing Legal Excellence

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School takes pride in fostering an environment where students like Ricky can thrive and excel in their legal pursuits. The part-time program at AJMLS allows students to balance their academic commitments with other responsibilities, making it an ideal choice for those with diverse schedules.

Ricky Panayoty’s Journey at AJMLS

As a part-time 3L student, Ricky has exemplified dedication and perseverance throughout his academic journey at AJMLS. His success in the BESLA NIL Writing Competition is a testament to the quality of education and support that AJMLS provides to its students.

Celebrating Achievement and Looking Ahead

Ricky’s achievement in the BESLA NIL Writing Competition is not only a personal triumph but also a source of pride for the entire AJMLS community. It highlights the caliber of students at our institution and reinforces our commitment to producing legal professionals who can make a significant impact in their respective fields.

As Ricky Panayoty continues his legal education journey at AJMLS, we look forward to witnessing more milestones and successes from him and our other outstanding students. Congratulations, Ricky, on this well-deserved accomplishment!

To learn more about the BESLA NIL Writing Competition and Ricky Panayoty’s impressive achievement, visit BESLA’s official page.

Stay tuned for more updates on the remarkable journeys of AJMLS students, shaping the future of law one achievement at a time.

Executive Council

Carolina Melguizo, President

Carolina Melguizo was born in Medellin, Colombia, and moved to the United States at the age of 15. With a passion for learning, Carolina earned a B.S. in history and political science from Georgia State University and a Paralegal Certificate from the University of Georgia. Carolina is currently a part-time student expected to graduate in May 2024. She currently balances her part-time student schedule with a full-time job, demonstrating her dedication to both her education and professional responsibilities. In her first year of law school, Carolina earned the CALI award in LWRA I and was invited to join the Advocacy Board. During her second year, she took on the role of SBA representative and showcased her legal acumen in the NAAC Moot Court Competition. During her third year, Carolina’s dedication to the Advocacy Board reached new heights as she was voted President of the organization. Under her leadership, the board’s presence in competitions reached new heights. Members actively participated in three moot court competitions and one mock trial competition during the academic year, marking a significant achievement in the promotion of written and oral advocacy for AJMLS. Additionally, Carolina joined CHALLSA as Co-President in the Spring of 2023 and she has served as a peer mentor since 2021. Carolina is deeply honored to lead the Advocacy Board as its President for the second consecutive year. Her goal is to ensure that the board’s members have an exceptional experience during competitions while continuing to elevate the board’s presence in both moot court and mock trial competitions.

Reddlene Lamour, Director of Operations and Finance

Reddlene Lamour was born in Miami Florida and raised in Orlando, Florida. She is currently a full-time student with an expected graduation date of May 2024. She attended thee illustrious Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee Florida, the number one public HBCU in the country, where she earned a degree in political science with a minor in economics. Prior to law school, Reddlene dedicated her time to serving her community through dance outreach programs centered around giving students in underfunded districts opportunities to get involved and build leadership skills. Reddlene is a part of a National dance team and hopes to merge her passion for dance and the law in a way that can positively influence minority groups that are interested in the legal profession and the arts. She is thrilled to serve as this year’s director of operations and finance and is also excited to showcase the brilliant competitors for this year’s competitions.

Sandy Miller, Director of Moot Court

Sandy Miller is a part-time 3L student and serves as the Director of Moot Court and as a member of the Peer Mentor Program. She represented AJMLS at the National Jeffrey G. Miller Environmental Law Moot Court Competition where she received a top oralist distinction.

In addition to her law school focus, Sandy works as a paralegal for a personal injury attorney.

When not at work or school, you can often find her at the baseball field with her husband watching their son play or at Truist Park cheering on the Braves.

Wide Thomas, Director of Communications

Wide Thomas, a native of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, relocated to the United States in 2016, embarking on a journey to restart her college education, while simultaneously learning English. At Lynn University in Boca Raton, she successfully earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in American Law. Passionate about community service and dedicated to empowering youth, Wide serves as a voice and advocate for higher education within the Haitian community. With a goal-oriented mindset, she achieved recognition as the Best Oralist in LWRA, leading to an invitation to join the moot court team. Wide further demonstrated her legal wit by competing in the McGee Civil Rights Moot Court Competition in Spring 2023. Her contributions led to an offer to serve as the Director of Communication for the Advocacy Board, a role she enthusiastically embraces.

The Office of Student Affairs is pleased to announce the names of the students who were selected for the Outstanding Student of the Quarter Award. This award is designed to recognize the contributions and efforts of students who excel in and/or out of the classroom and are dedicated to enriching the law school and greater communities.

1L Class

Rachel Avrunin

Rachel Avrunin is a first-year law student at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, a licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) in the State of Georgia and a certified Crime Victim Advocate (NACP). Rachel believes that an outstanding law student displays humility and learns from her peers in addition to her professors. Rachel is interested in becoming a trial attorney, and representing plaintiffs harmed by negligent institutions. Rachel believes that too often the criminal justice system fails to hold negligent religious institutions accountable for their failure to safeguard children. She is an advocate for reforming the statute of limitations and removing ecclesiastical privilege. To that end, she has volunteered with SNAP and assisted numerous adult victims of child sexual abuse by clergy in obtaining legal counsel to pursue justice in the civil area. Rachel loves the outdoors and lives in Decatur, Georgia with her husband, four teenagers, and a menagerie of pets.

Kyle Cobb

Kyle W Cobb is a Commercial Community Banking Analyst of Truist’s Not-For-Profit and government Banking Division, which covers the state of Georgia. Kyle assists the team with identifying client opportunities, constructing pitch materials, supporting the ongoing servicing of clients, and creating sales materials for existing and prospective clients. A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Kyle earned his B.B.A. in finance from Morehouse College. At this time, Kyle is also pursuing his juris doctorate at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, where he proudly serves as Vice President of the Criminal Law Society. Under Kyle’s leadership, the Criminal Law Society has been able to serve the youth of the community through education via their Know Your Rights workshops and by crafting letters to the children and youth incarcerated in detention centers and state homes around the nation. Additionally, Kyle and other members of the Criminal Law Society will be launching an anti-gang cognitive youth outreach program to deter children in low-income communities from joining gangs. Kyle believes an outstanding law student transcends the classroom in constant pursuit of ways to advocate for those who are in the little-known corners of the world. An active community volunteer, Kyle serves as a brand ambassador for Life Link of Georgia, a career coach at Gilgal Inc., and an active volunteer with the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta and the Salvation Army. 

Kyle is also a proud member of the Leadership Buckhead Class of 2023. Currently, Kyle serves as a steering committee member for the American Jewish Committee (ACCESS Atlanta), the executive committee for Camp Twin Lakes located in both Rutledge and Winder, GA, and the board of directors for the Carl E. Sanders YMCA located on Moores Mill Road in Atlanta, Georgia. Kyle has a passion for helping those who have experienced a plight in life that is similar to his.

2L Class

Gloria Garcia

Gloria Garcia is a full-time 2L student, serves as academic chair for CHALLSA, and is a peer mentor. She has helped organize three study sessions this semester geared towards helping 1L students succeed. She also helped CHALLSA’s co-presidents establish CHALLSA, a recently formed student organization that has been one of the most visible and active organizations at the law school this year. Gloria hopes to help as many 1L students as possible through her work with CHALLSA and the Peer Mentoring Program. 

Gloria aspires to become a criminal defense or entertainment attorney. She believes an outstanding law student is one who never gives up even when it seems like the world is falling around them. An outstanding student continuously works towards their end goal, knows that it’ll be worth it in the end, uplifts their community and helps in any way they can.

Krystal Robledo

Krystal Robledo is a 2L and an aspiring civil rights attorney from Chicago, IL. She founded a gun violence prevention organization in 2015, which strengthened her passion for community activism and social justice and made her realize the need for affordable and accessible legal representation for underrepresented communities. After moving to Georgia to begin law school at AJMLS, Krystal immediately became involved in her local community, participating in the Georgia Latino Law Foundation’s Leadership Academy and founding The Caribbean, Hispanic, and Latino Law Students Association at AJMLS. Despite the adjustment of moving to a new state for the first time in her life while raising three daughters, Krystal performed in the top 20% of her 1L class and has become a leader on campus. Her definition of an outstanding law student is one who realizes the need not only for academic excellence but also for community involvement and advocating for people who cannot advocate for themselves. Krystal aims to become an esteemed civil rights attorney representing marginalized communities, primarily focusing on educational advocacy and students with disabilities.

Jodi–Ann Salters

Jodi-Ann Salters is a 2L and Professional Development and Wellness Director of the AJMLS Peer Mentoring Program. She is a UGA alumnae and non-traditional student with over twelve years of leadership and management experience. Jodi-Ann believes in a balanced lifestyle and encourages her peers to do the same. She also values mentorship, as she mentors two 1Ls through the Peer Mentoring Program and many 1Ls and 2Ls informally. Recently, she produced AJMLS’s first fashion show, “Dress For the Bar: A Legal Professional Fashion Showcase,” with student models, a panel of four attorneys, and a professor. Students gained invaluable insights into the importance of dressing professionally in the legal landscape and the opportunity to network with attorneys.

Beyond studying and preparing for classes, Jodi-Ann enjoys spending quality time with her husband, children, and friends. Every Saturday, it’s “Go Dawgs,” and every Sunday, it’s “Go Browns!” Because of her passion for sports, she is the secretary of the Sports and Entertainment Law Society and a law clerk for the NIL (Name Image and Likeness) Law Group. Jodi-Ann is interested in becoming a Civil Litigator, is a Staff editor of the AJMLS Law Journal, and is working tirelessly to expand her professional network. She is also an active member of CERLS (Charlotte E. Ray Legal Society), CHALLSA (Caribbean, Hispanic and Latino Law Students Association), GABWA, and the Gate City Bar Association. Jodi-Ann’s definition of an outstanding law student is a student who is supportive, ethical, scholarly, charitable, and well-balanced. Outstanding law students motivate and encourage those around them to do their best. Law School is challenging but fun, tiring but purposeful, and sometimes depressing but rewarding. She believes the relationships she builds are as meaningful as the new language she is learning. Most importantly, she is forever grateful for the community of future lawyers she has at AJMLS.

Anthony Zahn

Anthony Zahn is a full-time 2L at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, and he is proud to be recognized as the Outstanding Student of the Quarter. With a background in education, specializing in English and US History, Anthony has seamlessly transitioned into the world of law. Anthony’s dedication to mentorship is evident as he serves as a peer mentor to five students, and shares his knowledge and passion for learning.

Anthony’s academic journey includes a position as a research assistant to Professor Suparna Malempati and a recent selection to the Law Journal, highlighting his commitment to legal scholarship and research. Additionally, Anthony has received CALI awards in Legal Writing and Research and Torts II. His vision for the future involves making a mark in the Civil Law field, particularly in personal injury cases.

Anthony is enthusiastic about actively engaging in networking opportunities to expand his professional connections. Additionally, he is committed to dedicating a portion of his time and expertise to public service, with the goal of giving back to the community and upholding the values of the legal profession by promoting justice and serving those in need.

Anthony’s definition of an outstanding law student is “someone who combines exceptional academic achievements with a deep understanding of the practical implications of the law, using their knowledge to bring about positive change.”

3Ls and 4L Classes

Tylore Bell

Tylore Bell is a full-time 3L student who wants to become a criminal defense attorney and practice in DC. She currently serves as the president of Black Law Students Association, a peer mentor, and Resource Director for the Peer Mentoring Program. She is from California, but came to Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School for a fresh start and to reconnect with her Southern family. Under Tylore’s leadership, BLSA has hosted their first Homecoming Week, and created academic study sessions for 1Ls to help increase the retention rate for black law students and to increase the percentage of black attorneys in the United States, which is currently 5%. Tylore’s definition of an outstanding student is someone who is approachable, able to communicate with everyone, works hard not only for herself but also others, and consistently backs up her principles, both in words and actions. 

Tiara Clemmons

As a full-time 3L at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, Tiara exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding law student. She has received three CALI Awards for academic excellence and three Outstanding Student of the Quarter accolades, consistently demonstrating exceptional scholarship and a deep commitment to the legal profession.

A dedicated member of the Black Law Students Association and a Line Editor for the school’s prestigious Law Journal, Tiara actively contributes to the enrichment of the school’s academic environment. Her leadership extends beyond editorial duties as she mentors first-year law students, guiding them through the challenges and rewards of law school as part of the Peer Mentoring Program.

Tiara’s passion for the law is matched by her ambition in the field of transactional corporate law. A testament to this ambition is the invaluable experience she gained during a summer internship with the in-house legal department of a leading manufacturer of electrical transmission and distribution materials. Furthermore, Tiara is a proud member of the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys (GABWA), where she continues to expand her professional network and contribute to the community.

Tiara defines an outstanding law student as one who embodies hard work, resilience, and kindness. These virtues reflect her commitment not only to personal success but also to the uplifting of peers and the betterment of the legal community.

Denisha Johnson

Denisha Johnson is honored to be recognized as the Outstanding Student of the Quarter. Denisha is currently a 3L part-time evening student, and she takes great pride in being the founding president of the Health Law Society during its inaugural year. This semester, Denisha was selected as a Staff Editor for the Law Journal, a distinction she holds with immense gratitude. During her time at AJMLS, her dedication to academics has been paralleled by her passion for community service. As a volunteer in AJMLS’s Landlord/Tenant Clinic and in the Georgia State Families Office, Denisha has actively pursued social justice and strived to make a positive impact on those in need. She aspires to become a health law attorney and to work with the Innocence Project to aid those wrongfully convicted. In her view, an outstanding law student embodies qualities of leadership, continuous education, community engagement, and advocacy. She believes these qualities are the cornerstones of a successful attorney, and she is committed to excelling in these areas. Denisha is enthusiastic about the opportunity to continue contributing meaningfully to both her academic pursuits and the community at large.

Wendi Lucas

Wendi Lucas is a 4L part-time student at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School. As a first generation college student, Wendi attended Kennesaw State University where she graduated cum laude and received a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in legal studies. As a 1L, Wendi served as an SBA class representative. She is an active member of the Advocacy Board and served in an executive board position her 3L year. Wendi has been a peer mentor since 2022 and enjoys helping incoming students adjust to the demands of law school. Wendi was awarded the CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Georgia Practice and Procedure.

Wendi has worked as a paralegal in the personal injury field since 2014 and hopes to continue her work as a personal injury attorney upon graduation and passing the Georgia Bar Exam. Wendi is a mother of three children, and her youngest child was born during her 3L year. She has continued to be involved with her family and volunteers as team parent for her son’s football team. Wendi believes hard work, dedication, and empathy for others are the keys to success. Wendi’s definition of an outstanding law student is one who “acknowledges the privilege and responsibility of becoming a member of the legal profession, strives to encourage and be a resource for others, and demonstrates professionalism, respect, and kindness in all areas.” 

Jacob Sperber

Jacob Sperber is a 3L at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School. Prior to attending law school, Jacob attended the University of Oregon, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Business. During his time at AJMLS, Jacob has earned CALI awards in Torts I & II, Legal Writing I & II, and Evidence. Jacob is also a member of Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School’s Moot Court team, Criminal Law Society, and Corporate and Business Law Society. He is also a peer mentor to 1L students. 

Jacob is also on the editorial board of AJMLS’s Law Journal and is writing a comment on the use of rap lyrics as evidence in criminal trials. Jacob’s definition of an outstanding law student is a student “who empowers and supports their fellow classmates, is willing to learn and expand their knowledge, and tries to make a positive impact on their community and school above all else.”   

Matthew Tans

Matthew “Max” Tans is a 3L, dad, and husband who serves in the Navy Reserve and volunteers with Team Rubicon, a disaster relief organization. In addition to his volunteer work outside of school, Max volunteers through the school’s Homeless Veterans Legal Clinic with the Warrior Alliance, is a peer mentor in school, and mentors other law students who are also veterans.

Max said, “I’m continuously surprised and delighted at how a small bit of help can have a drastically positive impact on people during a time of need. Part of being an outstanding student means finding additional ways to serve, learn, and discover the balance between studying the law as a profession and applying it through volunteer work. I’m honored to be recognized!” 

Donte Watkins

Donte’ Watkins is a 3L part-time student at AJMLS and is currently pursuing a certificate in Criminal Justice. Donte’ is a two-time Dean’s List recipient, is President of the Criminal Law Society, and serves as a peer mentor. Under Donte’s leadership, the Criminal Law Society has hosted/co-sponsored/supported several enrichment opportunities across the school and in the greater community. These events include hosting a “Law School Edge” panel, sharing firsthand insight on working in a prosecutor’s office and a defense firm, hosting an opportunity to visit a local adult detention facility, connecting with local Boys & Girls Club youth, and more. Donte’ further distinguished himself by being selected to represent the school and student body on the Access to Justice Day planning committee, a team of students, faculty, administrators, and DOJ staff that is coordinating a two-day event that will feature the Department of Justice’s Office for Access to Justice, various public defender offices, and other advocacy groups and organizations that do adjacent work. 

Outside of AJMLS, Donte’ serves as a Technical Sergeant in the United States Air Force Reserve and is assigned to Dobbins ARB, GA, where he serves as an Aviation Maintenance Technician and supports a special assignment. Donte’ leads 110 local high school-aged youth and advises them in the areas of leadership, life skills, health and wellness, government, logistics and supply chain management, and IT basics. In this role, he volunteers approximately 10-15 hours per week. 

Donte’ is interested in serving in the civilian Criminal Law field and has his sights on potentially becoming a Judge Advocate General for the US Air Force. His definition of an outstanding law student is one “who exemplifies integrity, service, and excellence, evidenced by representing oneself, the law school, and the legal profession with good values, using knowledge and experience to serve others within the law school community and greater community, and performing in a spirit of excellence in everything that one takes part in.”

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) Development and Alumni Relations Office is pleased to offer scholarship opportunities each semester. Our donors give generously to AJMLS and the John Marshall Law School Foundation, Inc. to help students cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, and educational expenses. AJMLS offers merit-based, need-based, and service-based scholarships. Applications were carefully reviewed by the scholarship committee, and we thank the committee for their time.

All inquiries related to the Development and Alumni Relations scholarships below should be directed to Wendy Aina, Chief Development Officer, at waina@johnmarshall.edu.

If you are interested in creating a scholarship to support our law students please visit our Giving pages or contact Wendy Aina directly.

On May 19, 2018, the 2018-2019 Student Bar Association (SBA) Executive Board took office. Thank you to the 2017-2018 Board for your tireless work on behalf of the Atlanta’s John Marshall student body, we are excited to follow your success as new attorneys.

The primary objective of the SBA Executive Board is to represent the viewpoints of the student body, and serve as a conduit between the students and administration. Your 2018-2019 Executive Board is already hard at work on your behalf, and looks forward to a productive academic year.

Genghis Shakhan, President

Where were you raised: Columbus, Ohio

Where did you complete your undergraduate and/or graduate education: The Ohio State University: B.A English, M.A Literature, M.Ed Secondary Education

What are your future career plans: Business Law and Public Interest

What do you look forward to as the SBA President: I look forward most to serving the student body and being a conduit and agent of change.

What are your goals in the position this academic year: My primary goal is to elevate the prestige of the law school and increase consumer confidence.

What do you want your classmates to know about you: All of my life I have wanted to help people just like my mother. In all I do I try my best to emulate her example; sometimes I fail, but oftentimes I succeed.

Chelsea Wilkerson, Vice President

Where were you raised: I was born in Hahira, Georgia in 1994 then moved with my immediate family to Sylvester, Georgia

Where did you complete your undergraduate and/or graduate education: I earned my Bachelors in Sociology at Georgia State University

What are your future career plans: To be an advocate for impoverished and homeless populations by providing legal services involving housing, education, and access to healthcare legal issues

What do you look forward to as the SBA Vice President: Mostly serving the student body by incorporating board initiatives to make 2018-2019 a great academic year, as well as addressing students’ most pressing concerns. I also look forward to working on my own initiatives in my capacity as Vice President that will draw students closer to the Atlanta community while encouraging a sense of community within the law school.

What are your goals in the position this academic year: My mission is to make lasting investments, and the best way to do that is by investing in the students by promoting personal and professional standards of conduct, belief in oneself, appreciation for this amazing opportunity that we all sacrificed to maintain, and pride in the profession of being agents of change as attorneys at law. My goals are to incorporate innovative energy into student events, collaborate with the student organizations, and foster public service. One of the ways that I will foster public service is by spearheading a suits, shoes, and dress clothes drive for men’s clothing.

What do you want your classmates to know about you: I’m too excited about my 3L year for words. I am so grateful and proud of myself for coming this far. I hope you are too, because it’s not over yet!

Stephanie Dennis, Treasurer

Where were you raised: I grew up in Johns Creek, Georgia

Where did you complete your undergraduate and/or graduate education: I graduated from Georgia State University in 2014

What are your future career plans: I am still exploring what type of law I would like to practice in the future, but eventually I would like to open my own firm after I gain experience in the legal industry.

What do you look forward to as the SBA Treasurer: The thing I look forward to the most is earning the trust of the student body by being transparent and fair.

What are your goals in the position this academic year: My main goal is to be as transparent and fair as possible with the student body about where student fees are going and why. Law school is a huge financial investment and I believe students should not be left feeling like they do not know what they are paying for.

What do you want your classmates to know about you: I feel like a lot of law students don’t know who to turn to when they have a problem or a need a question answered—I certainly felt that way multiple times during 1L year. I want my classmates to know that if you have a question or are having an issue about anything (even things unrelated to my position as SBA Treasurer), just come talk to me. If I can’t help you, I’ll find someone who can!

Natalie Foster, Secretary

Where were you raised: I was born and raised in Long Beach, California

Where did you complete your undergraduate and/or graduate education: After high school graduation, I moved to Atlanta to begin my collegiate career at Spelman College. I completed my undergraduate degree at Middle Tennessee State University, where I obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology with minors in Psychology and Writing.

What are your future career plans: Though my career path is still forming, I have developed a passion for oral advocacy, opening avenues for appellate work in my future. Additionally, I have an interest in assisting minority college students get into, and succeed in, law school. I hope to open a program with this goal as its focus.

What do you look forward to as the SBA Secretary: As SBA Secretary in the 2018-2019 academic year, I look forward to bridging the gap between the SBA Executive Board and the student body. There has been an interest and need in the past years among the students for transparency. I look forward to delivering that transparency through efficient and open communication.

What are your goals in the position this academic year: My goals for my position align with this goal, as a large part of the secretary’s job functions include disseminating information to the student body. I aim to keep the student body informed and at ease about how the executive board is furthering its interests.

What do you want your classmates to know about you: I want my classmates to know that I am here to serve them. I want them to know that, despite my busy schedule and other activities in which I am involved, performing my duties well as Secretary are my top priority. I am open to their questions, comments, and feedback and hope that my classmates will always feel as though they can reach out to me. I aim to be accessible and transparent.

Dwight Harris, Parliamentarian

Where were you raised: I was raised in Americus, Georgia, Sumter County

Where did you complete your undergraduate and/or graduate education: I completed my undergraduate education at THE Albany State University located in Albany, Georgia

What are your future career plans: My future career plans entail working as an Assistant District Attorney in either the state of Georgia or Maryland. Eventually, I will work toward an elected position on either a state or federal level to effect change in the field of law with a political angle. The pinnacle of my career goals will end with being a justice on the highest court in the land, The United States Supreme Court.

What do you look forward to as the SBA Parliamentarian: I look forward to serving the student body and producing tangible, positive results that would benefit the students.

What are your goals in the position this academic year: My goals revolve around three main pillars: Efficiency, Transparency and Communication. Through Efficiency, I plan to make information and processes available to the entire student body in a more convenient format. We are a generation of technology. Therefore, it should be utilized to benefit the student body. With Transparency, I plan to provide the student body with adequate information about important issues, so they can make informed decisions about their educational experience. This leads to the third pillar, Communication. The phrase, “Communication, is key!” is paramount to any successful relationship. I plan to put the voice of the student body back in Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School through a series of initiatives. With these three pillars, I have hope we can reach the ultimate goal of PROGRESS.

What do you want your classmates to know about you: I want my fellow colleagues to know it is an honor to serve as the 2018-2019 SBA Parliamentarian and I will fulfill my role to the best of my abilities. Also, I want my colleagues to know that I am a diverse student that can adapt and relate to all of you on many different levels. I have experienced and lived through many things. I am always up for a conversation with anyone because I think there is a “Blessing in Every Lesson.” Thank you Everyone.

The Office of Student Affairs and Pro Bono Programs recently presented the Outstanding Student Award for April to Maurice “Reece” Riden. Each month the Office of Student Affairs and Pro Bono Programs recognizes one Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) students who has excelled in the areas of distinguished service to others, citizenship, innovation, leadership, diversity advancement, and promotion of the John Marshall Proud spirit. The recipient serves as a source of pride and inspiration to others by giving unselfishly of themselves to enhance life on and off campus. In addition, these student leaders make AJMLS a better place for all of us.

Riden is a change agent, servant and leader. We have all seen Riden around campus wearing many hats and performing many roles, and he has been outstanding in his service to the law school and the community. He currently serves as a student ambassador and mentor in the Peer Mentoring Program and has been recognized for his work on and off campus. This year, he received the Phi Alpha Delta Vice Justice Award from the national chapter of Phi Alpha Delta and the 2018 Peer Mentor of the Year Award. Riden’s mentees in the Peer Mentoring Program speak very highly of him and his contributions to the school’s mentoring program. Not only does Riden coach and provide guidance and direction to his mentees, he also selflessly offers a helping hand, listening ear and words of encouragement to many other students on a regular basis. According to one upperclassman, he has taken many of our 1Ls and 2Ls under his wing who were not assigned to him through the mentoring program and has worked closely with these students to ensure their success. Riden is dedicated to being his best, helping others to be their best, and making a positive impact.

Riden’s civic mindedness and volunteerism extend beyond the walls of the law school and legal community. Through his membership with Phi Alpha Delta, he organized weekly visits to My Sister’s House of the Atlanta Mission. He also assisted with the GABWA Glitter Gala and is a mentor and role model for young men through his church’s youth group. He is a strong proponent for diversity initiatives and inclusion. Notably, Riden was one of the three top candidates for the Law School Admission Council Diversity Office’s summer program. And while he is excited for graduation, we will certainly miss him. Thank you, Reece, for all that you do for the AJMLS community. You are outstanding!

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) proudly awarded the Spring 2018 Outstanding Student Organization of the Semester Award to the Black Law Students Association (BLSA). This award recognizes student organizations that have excelled in leadership and made positive contributions to the student experience, the law school, and the surrounding community in a given semester. In addtion, BLSA deserves double kudos, as it was also awarded this honor in Fall 2017.

Included below are some of the events that BLSA sponsored this semester:

• Black History Month Symposium;
• Mental Health Seminar;
• Black Panther Movie Night; and
• 25 Year Anniversary Celebration.

Notably, BLSA raised in excess of $5000 for scholarship funds for the 25 Year Anniversary Celebration. In addition, BLSA spearheaded a month-long celebration for Black History Month, in which they recognized the accomplishments of prominent black figures on the JMTV community screens.

The Selection Committee thoughtfully reviewed each nomination. Although BLSA was ultimately selected for the award, the Committee was impressed with the accomplishments of all AJMLS student organizations. The Committee would also like to give honorable mentions to the Corporate and Business Law Society and the Solo Practitioners’ Law Society.

Congratulations, BLSA, on being chosen as the Spring 2018 Outstanding Student Organization! We cannot wait to see all the good you continue to do in the AJMLS community.

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) recently sent two teams to the Southern Regional Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition (SRBLSA) in Birmingham, Alabama. The first team consisted of Chelsea Wilkerson (Class of 2019) and Genghis X. Shakhan (Class of 2019) and the second team consisted of Natalie Foster (Class of 2019) and JoVanne Stewart (Class of 2019).

AJMLS is pleased to announce that both teams made a great showing at the SRBLSA Convention and represented the Law School admirably. Wilkerson was commended by multiple judges for being “unshakable” and for her ability to command their attention. Shakhan was told he ‘belonged in a courtroom’ by the National Moot Court Advisor and received positive feedback for his ability to handle difficult questions from the bench with ease.

After defeating teams from Emory University, the University of Alabama, and the University of North Carolina, Foster and Stewart placed first in the competition. They impressed the judges with their superior oral and written advocacy skills and their thoughtful responses to difficult questions. They will advance to participate in the National Competition scheduled to take place in Brooklyn, New York.

Please congratulate all of our competitors for their outstanding performance! Please also wish the members of the team luck as they prepare for the national competition.

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) 3L student, Crystal Fenn, recently secured one of the four Gate City Bar Association 2017 Scholarships following an application and essay process. Fenn learned of the scholarship opportunity from the AJMLS Office of Student Affairs and Pro Bono Programs and the Black Law Students Association (BLSA).

Fenn is set to graduate from AJMLS later this month. Her post-graduation goals are to pass the February 2018 Bar Examination and secure a position practicing Estate Planning and Civil Rights litigation. During her three years at AJMLS, Crystal was active on campus and dedicated to her studies. Her favorite courses were Race and Law, taught by Professor Alphran (pictured with Fenn), and Constitutional Law. She also served as the Marketing Manager for the National Lawyers Guild.

The Gate City Bar Association was founded in 1948 and is the oldest African-American bar association in the state of Georgia. It was established to provide the educational, social and community involvement of a professional association for African-American lawyers. Part of our mission is to encourage persons of outstanding promise to attend first-rate law schools and return to the communities that need their services most.*

Congratulations on this honor, Crystal! We wish you all the best following graduation. The AJMLS community looks forward to your continued success.

*From the Gate City Bar Association website.

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School proudly awarded the Fall 2017 Outstanding Student Organization of the Semester Award to the Black Law Students Association (BLSA). This award recognizes student organizations that have excelled in leadership and made positive contributions to the student experience, the law school, and the surrounding community in a given semester. Included below are some of the events that BLSA sponsored this semester:

• Throwback Thursday Event;
• Professional Workshop Event;
• Morris, Manning and Martin Attorney Dinner;
• Atlanta Community Food Bank Community Service;
• BLSA Children’s Book Drive;
• Locking Up Our Own, James Forman, Jr. Speaker Event;
• Marshall Movie Event.

Congratulations, BLSA, on being chosen as the Fall 2017 Outstanding Student Organization! We cannot wait to see all the good you continue to do in the AJMLS community.

For the second consecutive year, Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) has been invited to send well-accomplished students from Professor Van Detta’s summer Online International Business Transactions course to a major international arbitration conference in Atlanta. The conference, the 6th Annual Conference – International Business Disputes in an Era of Receding Globalism, is hosted by AtlAS, the Atlanta International Arbitration Society. The conference will take place on October 22nd and 23rd at the OMNI Atlanta Hotel. At the conference, the students will act as rapporteurs, whose job it is to take detailed notes of each panel session, write up a professional summary of that session, and get that summary ready for publication.

Typically, schools send only one student rapporteur, but AJMLS was privileged to send three in 2016, Sadia Ali, Michael Wynter, and Sharon Payne (AJMLS ’16). This year AJMLS has been invited to send two student rapporteurs, Ivrol Hines and Hassan Kouyate, both of whom excelled in Professor Van Detta’s Contracts I and II and Online International Business Transactions course. AtlAS seeks student rapporteurs that have both an interest in global business and arbitration and good comprehension and writing ability. The conference presents a unique and valuable opportunity for accomplished AJMLS students to meet global arbitration practitioners. Joyce Klemmer, Esq., at Partner at Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP, is a member of the Board of AtlAS which organizes the conference, advises that this presents “a valuable opportunity for students, a productive tie between AtlAS and the law schools, and results in a useful set of materials for lawyer and academics around the world who are interested in international commercial arbitration, whether they attended the conference or not.”

Many congratulations to Professor Van Detta, Ivrol, and Hassan. We wish our student rapporteurs our best at the upcoming conference and we thank Professor Van Detta for his continued commitment to the AJMLS students and community.

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School proudly awarded the Spring 2017 Outstanding Student Organization of the Semester Award to National Lawyers Guild (NLG). This award recognizes student organizations that have excelled in leadership and made positive contributions to the student experience, the law school, and the surrounding community in a given semester. Included below are some of the events that NLG sponsored this semester:

• Legal Observer Training;
• Landlord Tenant Training;
• How to Start and Run a Solo Civil Rights Practice (panel discussion);
• World Day of Social Justice;
• Know Your Rights Immigration Training;
• Soul Food Day;
• Cultural Spotlight Series (co-sponsored with the Latin American Law Student Association);
• Viewing of the Documentary “13th” (co-sponsored with the Criminal Law Society and the American Constitutional Society); and
• Celebrating LGBTQ Pride- LIPS ATL.

Congratulations, NLG, on being chosen as the Spring 2017 Outstanding Student Organization!

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (“AJMLS”) 3L student, Kendra Livingston, recently contributed to the writing of an article that was published in the December 2016 Georgia Bar Journal. An electronic copy of the article, entitled No Vacation: Top Criminal Defense Attorneys Travel to Tbilisi, can be found here and by clicking to page 32. A special thanks to Kendra can be found on page 35.

The article is a worthy read about eight Georgia lawyers who recently traveled to Tbilisi, which is the capital of the country of Georgia. In January 2017, the Republic of Georgia granted all criminal defendants the right to a jury trial. The resulting dilemma was that local lawyers and their clients were mostly uneducated in the art of trial advocacy. The purpose of the trip was to educate and empower local defense attorneys. More trips are planned in the future to continue the training process.

I encourage the AJMLS community to read this article. Congratulations, Kendra! This is a wonderful accomplishment.

The results of the SBA Student Representative Elections are in!

Please see below the list of 2016-2017 SBA Student Representatives:

1L Full-time Section A Representatives: Dwight Harris and Mikah Fuller
1L Full-time Section B Representatives: Samantha Beskin and Randy Williams
1L Criminal Justice Honors Representative: Jasmine Davis
1L Part-time Student Representatives: Bianca Hancock and Tasha Lumpkin
2L Full-time Student Representatives: Kamaria Womack and John Brumfield
2L Criminal Justice Honors Representative: Calvana Cedant
2L Part-time Student Representatives: Alexa Callaway and Randall Mixon
3L Full-time Student Representatives: Emmanuela Saint-Jean and Sharon Payne
3L Part-time Student Representative: Megan McCulloch
4L Part-time Student Representative: Alicia Thompson

Please congratulate your new student representatives! Thank you to all the candidates and students who participated in the SBA electoral process!

Remember, continue to Be Present. Be Intentional. Be Impactful.

The G. Alan Blackburn Competition is a culmination of all the hard work that the first year students have put into their Legal Writing, Research, and Analysis (LWRA) II problem. This year’s competition was comprised of the top four students from each LWRA II class, a total of thirty-six students.

The competition was four rounds with the final round being held on Wednesday, April 20th. The competitors were judged by Advocacy Board members in the first two rounds, AJMLS Alumni in the third round, and three sitting judges and a practicing attorney for the final round. The final round judges were Presiding Judge Anne Elizabeth Barnes of the Georgia Court of Appeals, Judge Christopher J. McFadden of the Georgia Court of Appeals, Judge Ural D. Glanville of Fulton County Superior Court, and Mr. Allen Wallace.

The final round competitors were: Zalak Raval, Rayshawn Williams, Andrew Puckett, and Allison Whitfield.
Williams and Mr. Puckett won Runner-Up Best Oralists this year.
Ms. Raval and Ms. Whitfield won Best Oralists for the final round.
Ms. Whitfield and Ms. Sarah Owensby won the best brief awards for their respective positions.

In addition to those results, the following students were awarded an invitation to the Advocacy Board as Provisional Members based on their performances:

Zalak Raval, Brandi Sluss, Nana-Yaa Amaning, Rayshawn Williams, Sarah Owensby, Tarla Atwell, Heather Kuhn, Andrew Puckett, Allison Whitfield, Kamaria Womack, and Bailey Edwards.

Please congratulate these students on their tremendous accomplishments!

Award winners with the final round judges: Pictured from left to right are Mr. Allen Wallace, Judge Ural D. Glanville, Zalak Raval, Rayshawn Williams, Andrew Puckett, Allison Whitfield, Judge Anne Elizabeth Barnes, and Judge Christopher J. McFadden. Not pictured: Sarah Owensby.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Invitees to the Advocacy Board: Pictured from left to right are Mr. Allen Wallace, Judge Ural D. Glanville, Tarla Atwell, Allison Whitfield, Rayshawn Williams, Kamaria Womack, Zalak Raval, Andrew Puckett,  Judge Anne Elizabeth Barnes, and Judge Christopher J. McFadden. Not pictured: Brandi Sluss, Nana-Yaa Amaning, Sarah Owensby, Heather Kuhn, and Bailey Edwards.

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School Sports & Entertainment Law Society, The Atlanta Entertainment basketball League and Econtii Music Group are proud to present the 2016 Sports, Music & Entertainment Summit (SMES). The summit will take place on February 20, 2016 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School’s Blackburn Conference Center.

This one-day summit will feature panels, workshops, interviews, a luncheon and an evening mixer that will provide education and networking opportunities for local students and professionals. “The mission of SMES is to inspire, build and contribute to the sports, music & entertainment industry by providing educational resources to students and professionals through connections, guest speaking panels and educational materials,” said Portia Mazone, owner and creative director of Econtii Music Group, an Atlanta-based entertainment resources and consulting firm.

The founding partners of SMES plan to merge sports, music and entertainment industry insiders, college students looking to enter into the workforce and working professionals with the hopes of helping them connect, learn and build. Film, sports and music panels will be at the heart of this day-long summit. Attendees will also participate in workshops, interviews, a luncheon and an evening mixer.

SMES will take place at the Blackburn Conference Center at 1405 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.SMESATL.Eventbrite.com or upon entry. For college students with a school I.D., the entry fee is $15. For all others, general admission is $25.

SMES Schedule

9:00 A.M. – Check In/Registration

10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M – Learn the Biz Workshops

Live Nation Entertainment Presents: Sync or Swim – A Workshop on syncing, micro licensing, and streaming considerations.
– Julie Roach, Principal Attorney and Owner of Julie K. Roach, Esq., LLC
– Ashley Hollan Couch, Principal at The Hollan Entertainment Law Group, LLC
– Emily Kaye, Artist Rights Acquisitions-Live Nation

Beyond The Game: Sports Law Workshop
– Cecelia Townes, Esq.

11:15 A.M. – 12:15 P.M. – Lights, Camera, Action: Television & Film in Atlanta – Moderated by Rea Davis, Entertainment Journalist

– M. Scott Boone, Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School Associate Dean for Academic Programs, Associate Professor
– Patty Miranda, Digital Entertainment Officer, Mayor’s Office of Film & Entertainment, City of Atlanta
– Lee Cuthbert, Georgia Department of Economic Development Film, Music and Digital Entertainment Office
– Tory Edwards- Vitamin E Media
12:30P.M.-1:30P.M. – The Playbook: The Business of Sports – Moderated by Bria Janelle of LoudGenius.Com
– Nzinga Shaw, Atlanta Hawks, Chief Officer of Diversity & Inclusion
– Jahi Rawlings, CEO, Atlanta Entertainment Basketball League
– Jay Pearson, WNBA Agent and Owner of Sports Wire Management and Media Company
– Sunny Wilkins, Esq.
– Cecelia Townes, Esq, Beyond The Game, LLC

1:45 P.M. – 2:45 P.M. – Lunch Mixer

3:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. – The Future of the Music Business – Moderated by Karen Marie Mason of Artist Launch

– Ray Daniels, Sr. VP of A&R Interscope Records
– Jenny Drake, Music Industry & Marketing Executive
– Jason Reddick, Promotions Director Of Radio One Atlanta Hot 107.9
– Tamiko Hope, PR to The Stars, WordInk
– Mike Walbert, Executive Director A3C Hip Hop Festival

4:15 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. – Networking Mixer

ABOUT Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School’s Sports & Entertainment Law Society:
Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School’s Sports and Entertainment Law Society (SELS) provides students with access to practitioners and other individuals in the sports and entertainment law fields, to afford students the opportunity to pursue and explore the many areas of sports and entertainment law.

ABOUT The Atlanta Entertainment Basketball League:
Atlanta Entertainment Basketball League (AEBL), founded by Jahi Rawlings in 2013, is Atlanta’s newest live sports and entertainment attraction for competitive basketball played by current, former and aspiring NBA players, celebrities, entertainers and local athletes.

ABOUT Econtii Music Group:
Econtii Music Group (EMG) is an entertainment consulting firm based in Atlanta, geared towards assisting professionals who are seeking project guidance in the entertainment industry. EMG specializes in legal research, branding and connecting professionals to the resources they need in order to successfully navigate throughout the entertainment industry.

For additional information, please contact Jah Rawlings at Jahirawlings3@gmail.com

For media inquiries, contact inf.smes@gmail.com

The Advocacy Board of Atlanta’s John Marshall is pleased to announce that our trial team placed as quarter finalists in the Carolinas Invitational Mock Trial Tournament. Twelve teams competed in the tournament which was hosted by the Charlotte School of Law and which involved a state criminal charge of Murder in the First Degree.

Competitors were: James Boles (3L), Sara Wardlow (2L), Sarah Pomella (3L), and Adrienne Thornton (3L). The team was coached by attorney Mitchell McGough of Atlanta.

Stetson Law hosted their eighth annual National Pretrial Competition this past weekend and the team from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School has once again been awarded Best Defendant’s Memorandum of Law. This is the third time during the past five years that Atlanta’s John Marshall has won the best brief award at the Stetson competition.

The winning team was composed of Michael Barrett (3L), Amber Reed (3L), Sadia Ali (2L), and Olivia Fisher (2L). The team was coached by Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School alumnus Mathis Wilkens, Assistant District Attorney in Dekalb County, and the team Director was Professor Suparna Malempati.

Congratulations to all the competitors!

Each spring the Student Bar Association hosts the Barrister’s Ball for the law school community as an opportunity to take a break from classes and enjoy an evening socializing with classmates, professors, alumni and friends. This year will be no different as the SBA will hold this year’s ball at Opera Nightclub on April 11, 2015 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

This year, students, faculty and staff tickets are free. Guest and alumni tickets will be on sale for $20. There is no RSVP needed to attend, but attendees will be required to pick up their tickets and pay for guests tickets prior to the day of the event. Ticket tables will be held in the lobby from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on:

• March 25th
• March 30th
• March 31st
• April 1st
• April 6th

The theme for this year will be masquerade. For more information, please contact SBA Secretary Meaghan Eustice at maeustice@johnmarshall.edu.

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School’s Black Law Students Association (BLSA), in conjunction with the SBA, recently donated over 440 pounds of non-perishable items to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The staff at the food bank was overjoyed at the sizable donation and expressed their gratitude for the students and staff who worked tirelessly to collect cans for a great cause.

Additionally, the John Marshall BLSA chapter was recognized by the Southern Region of the National Black Law Students Association (SRBLSA) for its work in the community. During their annual Academic Retreat, SRBLSA reported that the AJMLS chapter contributed the largest amount of canned goods in the entire region. The BLSA executive board would like to thank all who contributed to this wonderful cause. For more information on BLSA, visit the Student Organizations page of the website. The Atlanta Community Food Bank is always looking for volunteers and donations. More information about this organization is available on their website.

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School is pleased to announce that four students recently received scholarships from the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys (GABWA). The GABWA Foundation is committed to providing scholarships to black women attending Georgia law schools to insure that the pipeline of black women entering the legal profession remains strong. Since 2002, the GABWA Foundation has awarded over $250,000 in scholarships to African-American women law students.

Be sure to congratulate the following students for being awarded GABWA scholarships:

Uchenna Mary-Anne Uzoka, 3L
Christle Guinyard, 2L
Yesenia Muhammad, 3L
Amber Reed, 3L

The students will receive their scholarships at the GABWA Honors Brunch on December 13, 2014. For more information on GABWA and how to qualify for a GABWA scholarship, visit their website.