MSU College of Law Students Engage with the Legal Community
MSU College of Law, in partnership with the State Bar of Michigan, introduced law students to Michigan’s prominent faces in the legal community. The State Bar’s Face of Justice program is designed to connect law students with judges and attorneys in Michigan’s legal community through jet mentoring, or “speed networking,” opportunities.
Dean Linda Greene with (L-R) State Bar Director of Diversity Education and Programming Gregory Conyers,
President Daniel Quick, and Executive Director Peter Cunningham
College of Law Dean Linda Greene opened the Face of Justice program at MSU Law by welcoming the volunteer legal professionals and law students. “This event is really important. It’s important for our students to not only join a law school, but to join a legal community. The Face of Justice program is one way we make that come alive,” the Dean explained. Dean Greene thanked the State Bar of Michigan for bringing this innovative opportunity to College of Law students and recognized the Bar leadership, State Bar of Michigan President Daniel Quick and Executive Director Peter Cunningham. President Quick also served as a mentor.
Jet mentoring is similar to “speed-dating,” providing networking opportunities with legal professionals for students pursuing careers in law, explained Gregory Conyers, Director of Diversity Education and Programming for the State Bar. Students connected with legal professionals in small groups for 5-10 minutes before moving to the next table and engaging with new volunteer mentors.
Reactions from students and mentors were positive and energized after their jet-mentoring sessions. “It was so great, I felt so supported. MSU introduced me to attorneys of all sorts. There were judges, clerks. It was great meeting them and getting their intel and experience,” said Kate Held, a first-year law student.
Members of the State Bar provided a plethora of reasons for attending. “I think it’s extremely important to give back to the legal community, which includes law students. Plus, it’s fun,” said State Bar Board of Commission member Gerrow D. “Gerry” Mason, ’98.
“We need more diversity in the law,” said VOCA Elder Attorney with Legal Services of South Central Michigan Toi Dennis. “I like to encourage minority students by assuring them that Michigan’s legal community is committed to diversity and inclusion.” Ms. Dennis is a member of the Bar’s Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee.
One of the event organizers and Assistant Dean of Diversity and Equity at the College of Law Mary Ann Ferguson says there’s potential for a similar event in the spring. She encourages students and supporters of MSU College of Law to watch their emails and check the College of Law featured events section for future opportunities.
