DEI Speakers Bureau SubcommitteeThe subcommittee works to build a repository of diverse speakers on not only diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) topics, but also substantive law topics.
The subcommittee recommends diversity programs and initiatives that can be integrated throughout the following: all LSBA programming, LSBA continuing legal education seminars, and programming offered by local and specialty bar associations. (Name change approved March 28, 2023).
The Facilitation Team is available to present on a range of pertinent topics in the legal profession including generational differences, bias, cultural competency, mentoring and barriers to inclusion. These CLE seminars have been approved for 1.00 Professionalism credit hour.
To become a member of the Facilitation Team, attorneys participate in a Train the Trainer workshop. This training is conducted by senior facilitation team members. Senior facilitation team members are volunteer attorneys that have presented at least five presentations for the LSBA.
The Train the Trainer - Facilitator Training Workshop is approved for 3.00 Professionalism CLE credit hours.
At the workshop, attorneys will: Increase your knowledge of unconscious bias that affects each one of us; Discover new ways to reduce bias; Learn how to help others become more culturally competent; Gain tools to promote diversity and inclusion through training; and boost your confidence in delivering effective CLE presentations.
Train the Trainer - Facilitator Training Workshop Agenda:
1. Discover why diversity and inclusion is important to the Louisiana State Bar Association
2. Increase level of understanding of why diversity and inclusion is important
3. Increase knowledge of diversity and inclusion; Increase skills to educate others about diversity and inclusion
- Self-awareness
- Understand and learn ways to reduce bias
- Increase cultural competence
- Understand stereotypes, prejudices, and cultural differences
4. Discover the value of valuing diversity and inclusion
5. Best Practices
- Learn to facilitate a discussion related to sensitive topics (Learn to respond to challenges when conducting presentations --What stories to tell; What stories not to tell)
- Strategies for audience engagement
Please consider becoming a LSBA Diversity Facilitator. If you are interested in joining us, please click here for more information.
Questions? Contact the Member Outreach and Diversity team at diversity@lsba.org.
LSBA: Who We Are And How We Serve Our MembersThe LSBA Member Outreach CLE Series focuses on familiarizing members with the LSBA and services provided. This CLE series is presented by the LSBA Outreach Committee in cooperation with the LSBA Board of Governors. This seminar has been approved for 1.00 Professionalism CLE credit.
Member Outreach CLE Seminars (lsba.org)
Judge Pitman Elected as President of the Louisiana District Judges AssociationJudge Robin D. Pittman was elected by her colleagues to serve as President of the Louisiana District Judges Association, a professional nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the administration of justice, representing the interests of judges, and fostering the professional development of its members. Congratulations, Judge Pittman!
Pictured: Hon. Robin D. Pittman, Orleans Criminal District Court, Section F, New Orleans, LA
Jefferson Bar Association Election Meeting & Cocktail Party – November 14, 2025On November 14, 2025, the Jefferson Bar Association held its annual election meeting. The event was followed by a cocktail party for members and guests.
Jefferson Bar Association Officers - (Pictured L to R): Hon. Shayna B. Morvant, Past President, 24th Judicial District Court, Division M, Gretna, LA; Davidson S. Ehle III, Immediate Past President, Marino & Ehle LLC, Gretna, LA; Jason R. Anders, President, Attorney at Law, Metairie, LA; Albert J. Derbes IV, Vice President, The Derbes Law Firm, LLC, Metairie, LA; Renee L. Swanson, Secretary, Renee Swanson, LLC, Gretna, LA; John F. Lee, Treasurer, Attorney at Law, Metairie, LA; Rachel I. Silvers, Representative-at-Large, Silvers Law Firm, LLC, New Orleans, LA; Betty A. Maury, Representative-at-Large, Derbes Law Firm, LLC, Metairie, LA
New Admittees Reception - November 6, 2025On November 6, 2025, the Louisiana State Bar Association hosted its New Admittees Reception at the Louisiana Bar Center. The event celebrated newly admitted members of the bar and welcoming them into the Louisiana legal community.
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(Pictured L to R): Robert “Bob” A. Kutcher, 2019 – 2020 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Robert A. Kutcher, APLC, Metairie, LA; Christian H. Lacoste, 2018 Suit Up Alumnus, Porteous, Hainkel & Johnson, LLP, New Orleans, LA; Bradley J. Tate, 2025 – 2027 Louisiana State Bar Association Secretary, Sternberg Naccari & White LLC, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Christopher “Chris” J. Sellers, Jr., 2025 – 2026 Louisiana State Bar Association YLD Chair-Elect, Assistant Vice President &
Associate General Counsel, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Katherine L. Swartout, 2024 – 2025 New Orleans Bar Association YLD Chair, Pipes Miles Beckman, LLC, New Orleans, LA;
Christina “ Christy” K. Guzman, 2025 – 2026 Louisiana State Bar Association YLD Council, Jeffrey Hufft, Attorney at Law, LLC, Metairie, LA; Bradley J. Tate, 2025 – 2027 Louisiana State Bar Association Secretary, Sternberg Naccari & White LLC, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Andrew J. Stovall, Steeg Law Firm, LLC, New Orleans, LA; Christopher M. Barnett, Orleans Parish Civil District Court, New Orleans, LA; Cole Q. Tadlock, Schouest, Bamdas, Soshea, BenMaier & Eastham PLLC, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Samuel Riase III, DePaul Community Health Centers, New Orleans, LA; Hailey A. Shore, Attorney at Law, Metairie, LA; Andrew J. Stovall, Steeg Law Firm, LLC, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Christian H. Lacoste, 2018 Suit Up Alumnus, Porteous, Hainkel & Johnson, LLP, New Orleans, LA; Codee D. Jones, Duplass, APLC, Metairie, LA; Haley T. Newsome, Project Ishmael, New Orleans, LA
Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., Greater New Orleans Chapter Annual Mixer – October 29, 2025
On October 29, 2025, the Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., Greater New Orleans Chapter held its Annual Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle Mixer at Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC. The event provided law students with the opportunity to network and engage with members of the judiciary and legal community.
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Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., New Orleans Chapter Officers pictured with Hon. Ivan L. R. Lemelle – (Pictured L to R): Erin B. Rigsby, President-Elect, Chehardy Sherman Williams, New Orleans, LA; Victor M. Jones, Immediate Past President, Senior Counsel, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, New York, NY; Hon. Ivan L. R. Lemelle, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, Section B, New Orleans, LA; Makala L. Graves, Vice President of Internal Communications, Ogletree Deakins, New Orleans, LA; Michael S. Harrison, Jr., President, Senior Counsel, Kuchler Polk Weiner, New Orleans, LA.
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(Pictured L to R): Edwin T. Murray, Chehardy Sherman Williams, New Orleans, LA; Trevor C. Mosby, Baker Donelson, New Orleans, LA; Ashley E. White, Winston Bergeron, LLP, New Orleans, LA; Cory J. Vidal, Corporate Counsel & Senior Vice President, Hancock Whitney Bank, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Dara Gallion, 2L, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, New Orleans, LA; Attylaka Follins, 3L, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Omar K. Mason, Orleans Parish Civil District Court, Division E, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Tracy Flemings-Davillier, Orleans Criminal District Court, Section B, New Orleans, LA; Kennedy Hood, 2L, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, New Orleans, LA; Phylicia Wright; 2L, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, New Orleans, LA
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(Picture L to R): Jywana Moore, Hills Daniels and Associates, Harvey, LA; Hon. Ivan L. R. Lemelle, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, Section B, New Orleans, LA; Gabrielle E. Massey, Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., Greater New Orleans Chapter YLD Co-Chair, 4th Circuit Court of Appeal, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Hon. Karen Wells Roby, Magistrate Chief Judge, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, New Orleans, LA; Sage Allen, 2021 Suit Up Alumna, 1L, Tulane University Law School Program, New Orleans, LA
Federal Bar Association, New Orleans Chapter, Federal Judges Reception – October 23, 2025On October 23, 2025, the Federal Bar Association, New Orleans Chapter, held its Judges Reception at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. Attendees enjoyed engaging conversations, fostering connections, and celebrating the local legal community.
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(Pictured L to R): John A. Mieras, Stanley, Reuter, Alford, Owen, Munson, and Paul LLC, New Orleans, LA; Steven Bell, Stanley, Reuter, Alford, Owen, Munson, and Paul LLC, New Orleans, LA; Brandon A. Naquin, Stanley, Reuter, Alford, Owen, Munson, and Paul LLC, New Orleans, LA; Laughlin Grace, Phelps, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Marcus V. Brown, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, Entergy, New Orleans, LA; Richard C. Stanley, Stanley, Reuter, Alford, Owen, Munson, and Paul LLC, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R):
Samuel Riase III, DePaul Community Health Centers, New Orleans, LA; Taylor Rogers, Louisiana Supreme Court, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Lawrence “Larry” J. Centola, 2025 – 2026 Federal Bar Association New Orleans Chapter President, Principal, Martzell, Bickford & Centola, New Orleans, LA; Kelly T. Scalise, Shareholder, Liskow& Lewis, APLC, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Camilla E. Capodice, Partner, Irwin Fritchie Urquhart Moore & Daniels, LLC, New Orleans, LA; Brian M. Ballay, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC, New Orleans, LA; Phillip J. Antis Jr., Gordon, Arata, Montgomery, Barnett, McCollam, Duplantis and Eagan, LLC, New Orleans, LA
Southwest Louisiana Bar Association Court Opening – October 17, 2025On October 17, 2025, the Southwest Louisiana Bar Association held its annual Court Opening Ceremony, a joint event for the 14th, 16th, and 38th Judicial District Courts. Louisiana State Bar Association President Edward J. Walters, Jr. delivered the welcome remarks. During the ceremony, the Charles A. Downing Humanitarian Award was presented, and 50- and 60-year members were recognized for their years of service.
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(Pictured L to R): Joseph B. Williams III, 2024 – 2025 Southwest Louisiana Bar Association President, Calcasieu Parish District Attorney's Office, Lake Charles, LA; Ezra Pettis, Jr., 2025 – 2026 Southwest Louisiana Bar Association President, Delphin Law Office, Lake Charles, LA; Edward J. Walters, Jr., 2025–2026 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Founder, Walters, Thomas, Cullens LLC, Baton Rouge, LA
(Pictured L to R): Hon. Bobby L. Holmes, 14th Judicial District Court, Division F, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. Derrick D. Kee, Cox, Cox, Filo, Camel & Wilson, LLC, Lake Charles, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Hon. Bobby L. Holmes, 14th Judicial District Court, Division F, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. David A. Ritchie, 14th Judicial District Court, Division E, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. Kendrick J. Guidry, 14th Judicial District Court, Division H, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. William J. Cutrera, 14th Judicial District Court, Division C, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. Cynthia C. Guillory, 14th Judicial District Court, Division J, Lake Charles LA; Hon. Penelope Q. Richard, 38th Judicial District Court, Division A, Cameron, LA; Hon. Hope W. Buford, 14th Judicial District Court, Division D, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. Tony C. Fazzio, 14th Judicial District Court, Magistrate Court, Lake Charles, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Hon. Bobby L. Holmes, 14th Judicial District Court, Division F, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. Ulysses G. Thibodeaux (Ret.), Third Circuit Court of Appeal, Lake Charles, LA; Ezra Pettis, Jr., 2025 – 2026 Southwest Louisiana Bar Association President, Delphin Law Office, Lake Charles, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Hon. Bobby L. Holmes, 14th Judicial District Court, Division F, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. Derrick D. Kee, Cox, Cox, Filo, Camel & Wilson, LLC, Lake Charles, LA
LGBT Legal Issues CLE Seminar – September 23, 2025On September 23, 2025, the LSBA Diversity Committee’s LGBT Subcommittee and the LSU OUTLaw Student Organization hosted a CLE seminar titled Out in the Law: Building a Career with Pride and Protection. The seminar addressed how Title VII and related case law protect identity in the workplace.
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(Pictured L to R): J. Dalton Courson, Litigation Director, Disability Rights Louisiana, New Orleans, LA; Nicholas J. Hite, Lambda Legal, Dallas, TX; Hieu T. “Scott” Le, Mouledoux, Bland, Legrand & Brackett, LLC, New Orleans, LA; Rachel M. Scarafia, Special Counsel, Jones Walker LLP, New Orleans, LA
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Top Row (Pictured L to R): Camila Valenzuela, Vice President of Administration, 2L; Jonathan Lynn, President,2L; Alexandra Basse, Vice President of Public Relations, 2L; Makinzie Ganey, Vice President of Programming, 2L
Bottom Row (Pictured L to R): J. Dalton Courson, Litigation Director, Disability Rights Louisiana, New Orleans, LA; Nicholas J. Hite, Lambda Legal, Dallas, TX; Hieu T. “Scott” Le, Mouledoux, Bland, Legrand & Brackett, LLC, New Orleans, LA; Rachel M. Scarafia, Special Counsel, Jones Walker LLP, New Orleans, LA
Shreveport Bar Association Building on Legacy Luncheon – September 24, 2025On September 24, 2025, the Shreveport Bar Association hosted its Building on Legacy Luncheon on September 24, 2025. The event honored the past president and featured remarks from both Michael A. Patterson, 2010 – 2011 Louisiana State Bar Association President, and Edward J. Walters, 2025 – 2026 Louisiana State Bar Association President.
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(Pictured L to R): Michael A. Patterson, 2010 – 2011 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Of Counsel, Founding Partner, Long Law Firm, Baton Rouge, LA; Edward J. Walters Jr., 2025–2026 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Founder, Walters, Thomas, Cullens LLC, Baton Rouge, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Michael A. Patterson, 2010 – 2011 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Of Counsel, Founding Partner, Long Law Firm, Baton Rouge, LA; Elizabeth M. Carmody, 2025 Shreveport Bar Association President, Special Counsel, Cook, Yancey, King & Galloway, APLC, Shreveport, LA; Edward J. Walters Jr., 2025–2026 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Founder, Walters, Thomas, Cullens LLC, Baton Rouge, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Michael A. Patterson, 2010 – 2011 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Of Counsel, Founding Partner, Long Law Firm, Baton Rouge, LA; Hon. W. Ross Foote (Ret.), 9th Judicial District Court, Alexandria, LA; Edward J. Walters Jr., 2025–2026 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Founder, Walters, Thomas, Cullens LLC, Baton Rouge, LA
Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., Greater New Orleans Chapter Scholarship Gala – September 6, 2025On September 6, 2025, the Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., Greater New Orleans Chapter held its annual Scholarship Gala and Brunch. During the event, several distinguished individuals were honored for their outstanding contributions. The Honorable Kern A. Reese received the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Honorable Dana M. Douglas was presented with the Ernest N. Morial Award. Davante Lewis was recognized for the Earl J. Amadee Award, while Professor Carla Laroche received the Dr. Norman C. Francis Award. Cory J. Vidal was honored with the A.P. Tureaud Award, and Mollie A. Ponds received the Louis A. Martinet Award. Lastly, Zachary O. Simmons was presented with the President’s Award.
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(Pictured L to R): Justin I. Woods, Clerk of Court, Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Paula A. Brown, Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal, Division C, New Orleans, LA; Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson (Ret.), Louisiana Supreme Court, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Kern A. Reese, Orleans Civil District Court, Division L, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Ellen M. Hazeur, Orleans Civil District Court, Division A, New Orleans, LA; Wayne J. Lee, Partner, Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann L.L.C., New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Blair Dottin-Haley, Master of Ceremonies, Chief Executive Officer, The Dottin-Haley Group, New Orleans, LA; Davante Lewis, Earl J. Amadee Award Recipient, Commissioner, Louisiana Public Service Commission, District 3, Baton Rouge, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Blair Dottin-Haley, Master of Ceremonies, Chief Executive Officer, The Dottin-Haley Group, New Orleans, LA; Carla LaRoche, Dr. Norman C. Francis Award Recipient, Associate Professor, Tulane University Law School, New Orleans, LA
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Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., New Orleans Chapter Officers Pictured with Hon. Benedict J. Willard – (Pictured
Left to Right): Victor M. Jones, Immediate President, Senior Counsel, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, New York, NY; Mollie A. Ponds, Vice President of Membership, Frilot, LLC, New Orleans, LA; Jaina D. Green, Vice President of External Communications, McGlinchey Stafford, PLLC, New Orleans, LA; Makala L. Graves, Vice President of Internal Communications, Ogletree Deakins, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Benedict J. Willard, Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, New Orleans, LA; Michael S. Harrison, Jr., President, Senior Counsel, Kuchler Polk Weiner, New Orleans, LA; Erin B. Rigsby, President-Elect, Chehardy Sherman Williams, New Orleans, LA; Zachary O. Simmons, Treasurer, Southeast Louisiana Legal Services, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Cory J. Vidal, A.P. Tureaud Award Recipient, Corporate Counsel & Senior Vice President, Hancock Whitney Bank, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Kern A. Reese, Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, Orleans Civil District Court, Division L, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Blair Dottin-Haley, Master of Ceremonies, Chief Executive Officer, The Dottin-Haley Group, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Dana M. Douglas, Ernest N. Morial Award Recipient, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, New Orleans, LA
4th JDC Bar Association Opening of Court – September 5, 2025On September 5, 2025, the 4th JDC Bar Association held its Opening of Court and Memorial Service at the Ouachita Parish Courthouse in Monroe, Louisiana. The ceremony was opened by Chief Hon. Walter M. Caldwell IV of the 4th Judicial District Court. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Alexandra Loomis Barham, Vice President of the 2025–2026 4th JDC Bar Association, and C.A. “Hap” Martin III, Treasurer of the 2024–2026 Louisiana State Bar Association.
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(Pictured L to R): Alexandra L. Barham, Founder, Attorney at Law, Monroe, LA; C.A. “Hap” Martin III, 2024–2026 Louisiana State Bar Association Treasurer, Shareholder, Shotwell, Brown & Sperry, APLC, Monroe, LA
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First Row (Pictured L to R): Hon. Bernard S. Leehy, 4th Judicial District Court, Division A, Monroe, LA; Hon. Robert C. Johnson, 4th Judicial District Court, Division J, Monroe, LA; Hon. Larry D. Jefferson, 4th Judicial District Court, Division H, Monroe, LA; Hon. Frederick D. Jones, 4th Judicial District Court, Division G, Monroe, LA; Hon. Jefferson Joyce, 4th Judicial District Court, Division K, Monroe, LA
Second Row (Pictured L to R): Hon. Walter M. Caldwell IV, Chief Judge, 4th Judicial District Court, Division E, Monroe, LA; Hon. J. Wilson Rambo, 4th Judicial District Court, Division C, Monroe, LA; Associate Justice Jay B. McCallum, Louisiana Supreme Court, District 4, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Angie D. Sturdivant, Monroe City Court, Division B, Monroe, LA; Hon. Will R. Barham, 5th Judicial District Court, Division B, Rayville, LA; Hon. James M. "Jimbo" Stephens, 4th Judicial 2nd Circuit Court of Appeal, First District, Section 2A, Monroe, LA; Hon. Alvin R. Sharp, 4th Judicial District Court, Division I, Monroe, LA; Hon. Sharon I. Marchman, 4th Judicial District Court, Division B, Monroe, LA; Hon. Daniel J. Ellender, 2nd Circuit Court of Appeal, First District, Section 2, Division B, Shreveport, LA
Alexandria Bar Association Opening of Court – September 3, 2025On September 3, 2025, the Alexandria Bar Association held its Opening of Court at the Ninth Judicial District Court in Rapides Parish. Chief Judge Monique F. Rauls of the Ninth Judicial District Court opened the ceremony. Attendees were welcomed by 2025–2026 Alexandria Bar Association President Allison P. Nowlin.
Left Photo (Pictured L to R): Judge Richard E. Starling, Jr., Alexandria City Court, Alexandria, LA; Justice John M. Guidry, Louisiana Supreme Court, Second District, New Orleans, LA; Judge Greg Beard, Ninth Judicial District Court, Division G, Alexandria, LA; Judge Shannon J. Gremillion, Third Circuit Court of Appeal, District 1, Lake Charles, LA; Chief Judge Monique F. Rauls, Ninth Judicial District Court, Division A, Alexandria, LA; Judge Mary L. Doggett, Ninth Judicial District Court, Division C, Alexandria, LA
Right Photo(Pictured L to R): Derrick J. Johnson, 2025–2026 Alexandria Bar Association Secretary, Rapides Parish District Attorney's Office, Alexandria, LA; Matthew L. Nowlin, 2025–2026 Alexandria Bar Association Treasurer, Keiser and Nowlin, Alexandria, LA; E. June Wells-Foster, 2024–2025 Alexandria Bar Association President, Rapides Parish District Attorney's Office, Alexandria, LA; Allison P. Nowlin, 2025–2026 Alexandria Bar Association President, City of Alexandria, Alexandria, LA; Samuel J. Spurgeon, 2023–2024 Alexandria Bar Association President, Partner, Spurgeon Law Firm, Alexandria, LA; Jonathan A. Cobb, 2025–2026 Alexandria Bar Association YLD Chair, Faircloth Melton Bash & Green, LLC, Alexandria, LA; R. Morgan Briggs, 2025–2026 Alexandria Bar Association Vice President, Gold Weems Bruser Sues & Rundell, APLC, Alexandria, LA
Leadership Orientation- August 22, 2025On August 22, 2025, an orientation was held at The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans for the 2025–2026 Leadership LSBA Class. The Leadership LSBA program provides exposure for young lawyers to how the LSBA functions, as well as the pressing issues that face the Association and the legal profession.
(Pictured L to R): Garret W. Wick, 2025–2026 Leadership LSBA Class Co-Chair; Clary Suba Neale, Baton Rouge, LA; Erin N. Alpandinar, U.S. District Court, Western District of LA, Baton Rouge, LA; Taquincia M. Jairles, Chehardy, Sherman, Williams, Recile & Hayes, L.L.P., Metairie, LA; Lauren S. Bennett, Orleans Parish Civil District Court, New Orleans, LA; Sharita L. Spears, Attorney at Law, Zachary, LA; Shana M. Robertson, Tina L. Suggs & Associates, Metairie, LA; Shiena Marie N. Burke, Kean Miller, LLP, Baton Rouge, LA; Christine E. Wells, Tanner and Justice, Baton Rouge, LA; Meghan E. Notariano, Parker Layrisson Law Firm, Ponchatoula, LA; Anna C. Tucker, Blanchard, Walker, O'Quin & Roberts, APLC, Shreveport, LA; Hannah K. Cobb, Long Law Firm, Baton Rouge, LA; Zachary D. Berryman, Liskow & Lewis, APLC, New Orleans, LA
Specialty Bars CLE Seminar – August 22, 2025On August 22, 2025, the Specialty Bars CLE Seminar was held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in New Orleans. The program featured The Modern Lawyer’s Tech Toolkit: Ethics, Efficiency, and the Future of Practice, presented by Ashley R. Hallene, and Let’s Chat GPS: Navigating Life and Work in the Legal Profession, presented by Darleene D. Peters.
(Pictured Left): Darlenne D. Peters, Partner, Irwin, Fritchie, Urquhart, Moore & Daniels L.L.C., New Orleans, LA
(Pictured Right): Ashley R. Hallene, Attorney at Law, Katy, TX
Lafayette Bar Association Bench Bar – August 21 – 23, 2025On August 21–23, 2025, the Lafayette Bar Association held its annual Bench Bar Conference at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, AL.
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(Pictured L to R): John R. Swift, Co-founder, Swift & Rhoades, L.L.P., Lafayette, LA; Maggie T. Simar, Hearing Officer, 16th Judicial District Court, St. Martinville, LA; Chief Justice John L. Weimer III, Louisiana Supreme Court, Sixth District, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Stuart R. Breaux, 2024–2025 Lafayette Bar Association President, Kellner Law Firm, LLC, Lafayette, LA; Judge Douglas J. Saloom, City Court of Lafayette, Division B, Lafayette, LA; Mary Margaret Bienvenu Saloom; Kenneth P. Hebert, Partner and Founder, Beal and Hebert, LLC, Lafayette, LA
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(Pictured): Justice John M. Guidry, Louisiana Supreme Court, Second District, New Orleans, LA
Leadership LSBA Class Reception – August 21, 2025On August 21, 2025, a reception was held to welcome the incoming Leadership LSBA Class. The event provided an opportunity for participants to engage with members of the legal community. Several past LSBA presidents were also in attendance to show their support.
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First Row (Pictured L to R): Edward J. Walters Jr., 2025–2026 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Founder, Walters, Thomas, Cullens LLC, Baton Rouge, LA; Zachary D. Berryman, Liskow & Lewis, APLC, New Orleans, LA; Shana M. Robertson, Tina L. Suggs & Association, Metairie, LA; Corrie R. Gallien, Attorney at Law, Lafayette, LA; Christine E. Wells, Tanner and Justice, Baton Rouge, LA; Lauren S. Bennett, Orleans Parish Civil District Court, New Orleans, LA; Shiena Marie N. Burke, Kean Miller LLP, Baton Rouge, LA; Erin N. Alpandinar, U.S. District Court, Western District of Louisiana, Baton Rouge, LA; Taquincia M. Jairles, Chehardy, Sherman, Williams, Recile & Hayes L.L.P., Metairie, LA; Meghan E. Notariano, Parker Layrisson Law Firm, Ponchatoula, LA; Garret W. Wick, 2025–2026 Leadership LSBA Class Co-chair, Clary Suba Neale, Baton Rouge, LA
Second Row (Pictured L to R): Hannah K. Cobb, Long Law Firm, Baton Rouge, LA; Sharita L. Spears, Attorney at Law, Zachary, LA; Anna C. Tucker, Blanchard, Walker, O'Quin & Roberts APLC, Shreveport, LA; Curtis R. Joseph Jr., 2025–2026 Louisiana State Bar Association President–Elect, Partner, Blanchard, Walker, O'Quin & Roberts APLC, Shreveport, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Michael W. McKay, 2004–2005 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Of Counsel, Long Law Firm, Baton Rouge, LA; Kim M. Boyle, 2009–2010 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Partner, Phelps, New Orleans, LA; S. Guy deLaup, 2007–2008 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Attorney at Law, Metairie, LA; Mickey S. deLaup, maps | Mediation & Arbitration, Metairie, LA
Conclave’s Specialty Bars Reception – August 8, 2025On August 8, 2025, following the LSBA’s Conclave, the Specialty Bars Subcommittee hosted a reception at the Chemin à la Mer restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans.
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(Pictured L to R): Monica M. Vela-Vick, Conclave Co-Chair, The Dugan Law Firm, APLC, New Orleans, LA; Demarcus J. Gordon, Conclave Chair, Partner, Kelly Hart Pitre, New Orleans, LA
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(Pictured L to R): Brent A. Hawkins, 2025 - 2026 Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., Southwest Louisiana Chapter President, Founder, The Hawkins Law Group, Lake Charles, LA; ReAzalia Z. Allen, 2025 - 2026 Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., Greater Baton Rouge Vice President, East Baton Rouge District Attorney's Office, Baton Rouge, LA; Monica M. Vela-Vick, Conclave Co-Chair, The Dugan Law Firm, APLC, New Orleans, LA; Demarcus J. Gordon, Conclave Chair, Partner, Kelly Hart Pitre, New Orleans, LA; Felicia M. Hamilton, 2025 - 2026 Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Inc., Northeast Louisiana Chapter President, Founder, The Law Office of Felicia M Hamilton, Shreveport, LA
Federal Bar Association, New Orleans Chapter Annual Meeting – August 7, 2025On August 7, 2025, the Federal Bar Association New Orleans Chapter held its Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon at the InterContinental Hotel New Orleans.
During the luncheon, the 2024–2025 Chapter President, Judge Susie Moran, passed the gavel to Lawrence J. Centola, the 2025–2026 Chapter President.
(Pictured L to R): Judge Susie Morgan, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, Section E, New Orleans, LA; Lawrence J. Centola, Principal, Martzell, Bickford & Centola, New Orleans, LA.
Day 5, Week 3 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 27, 2025On the final day of Suit Up for the Future, student interns traveled to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, where they presented oral arguments before a panel of esteemed judges.
The judges' panel included the Honorable Karen Wells Roby, Just the Beginning (JTB) Coordinator, Magistrate Judge, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, New Orleans, LA and Orleans Parish Civil District Court Judges (Honorable Ellen M. Hazeur, Division A; Honorable Elroy A. James, Division B; Honorable Omar K. Mason, Division E, Honorable Lori W. Jupiter, Division I).
Winners for Best Oral Argument and Memorandum were as follows: Otto K. Massie (Best Defense Memorandum, Best Defense Oral Argument, Morning Session), Ja’Wayne A. White (Best Prosecution Memorandum), Emma L. Ladisky (Best Prosecution Oral Argument, Morning Session), Bailey I. Williams (Best Defense Oral Argument, Afternoon Session), and Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill (Best Prosecution Oral Argument, Afternoon Session).
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Argument Winners (Pictured L to R): Otto K. Massie, Emma L. Ladisky, Bailey I. Williams, Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill
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Memorandum Winners (Pictured L to R): Otto K. Massie, Ja’Wayne A. White
Day 4, Week 3 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 26, 2025Students began their day with oral argument preparation before traveling to Shake Shack, where lunch was generously sponsored by the company. They then returned to the Louisiana State Bar Association, where they continued oral argument preparation until dismissal.
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(Pictured L to R): Angelica H. Rodriguez; Emma L. Ladisky; Mary C. Bowlin; Nhachi C. Vu; Estefania J. Antunez
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(Pictured L to R): Victoria G. Baez; Estefania J. Antunez; Ximena G. Vasquez; Tyler D. Bickham
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(Pictured L to R): Bailey I. Williams; Macy J. Hall
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(Pictured L to R): Cheyenne M. Lewis; Abigail A. Schoen; Christoper H. Juge II
Day 3, Week 3 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 25, 2025Student interns began their day working diligently on their oral arguments in preparation for their Oral Argument presentations.
Following lunch, the students toured the Orleans Public Defenders Office, where they were welcomed by Daniel L. Engelberg, Chief District Defender.
The day concluded with Suit Up interns assisting the students with memorandum outline preparation
Top Left Photo
(Pictured L to R): Victoria G. Baez; Ximena G. Vasquez; Tyler D. Bickham; Estefania J. Antunez
Bottom Left Photo
(Pictured L to R): Ja’Wayne A. White; Angelica H. Rodriguez; Cheyenne M. Lewis
Right Photo
(Pictured L to R): Julianna A. Cunnikin; Shelby D. Gordon; Emma L. Ladisky; Ja’Wayne A. White; Cheyenne M. Lewis; Abigail A. Schoen
Presenters (Pictured L to R): Robert Jones, Director of Community Outreach, Orleans Public Defenders, New Orleans, LA; Alexandrea Flakes, 2018 Suit Up Alumna, Staff Investigator, Orleans Public Defenders, New Orleans, LA; Radha Yerramilli, Conflicts Managing Attorney, Orleans Public Defenders, New Orleans, LA; Alexis Chernow, Deputy Chief Defender, Orleans Parish Defenders, New Orleans, LA
Day 2, Week 3 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 24,2025The second day of Week Three of Suit Up began with continued oral argument preparation.
Following lunch, students toured the Louisiana Supreme Court, including its library and museum. Presentations were delivered by Sara V. Pixon, Head of Public Services, Louisiana Supreme Court Library, and Trina S. Vincent, Deputy Judicial Administrator for Community Relations
Right Photo
Pictured: Benjamin B. So, Intern, 2023 Suit Up Alumnus, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
Left Photo
Second Row (Pictured L to R): Ja’Wayne A. White; Christopher H. Juge; Cheyenne M. Lewis; Emma L. Ladisky; Macy J. Hall; Shelby D. Gordon; Abigail A. Schoen, Mary C. Bowlin; Otto K. Massie; Ja’Ryan D. Berry Hill
First Row (Pictured L to R): Danie M. Hamilton; Juliana A. Cunnikin; Estefania J. Antunez; Nhachi C. Vu; Makenzie R. Jackson; Victoria G. Baez; Tyler D. Bickham; Sylvia C. Capiton; Selin G. Greer; Angelica H. Rodriguez; Bailey I. Williams
Day 1, Week 3 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 23, 2025Suit Up students began their third week with a tour of the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, where they observed proceedings in the courtroom of the Honorable Tracey E. Flemings-Davillier, Section B.
Following lunch, the students toured the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office. At the Orleans Public Defenders Office, they were welcomed by District Attorney Jason Williams.
The day concluded with Suit Up interns assisting students in preparing memorandum outlines.
Left Photo
First Row (Pictured L to R): Bailey I. Williams; Estefania J. Antunez; Shelby D. Gordon
Second Row (Pictured L to R): Cheyenne M. Lewis; Selin G. Greer; Danie M. Hamilton; Julianna A. Cunnikin; Ximena G. Vasquez; Honorable Tracey E. Flemings-Davillier, Section B, Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, New Orleans, LA; Angelica H. Rodriguez; Otto K. Massie
Third Row (Pictured L to R): Emma L. Ladisky; Mary C. Bowlin; Nhachi C. Vu; Sylvia C. Capiton; Tyler D. Bickham; Abigail A. Schoen; Macy J. Hall
Fourth Row (Pictured L to R): Benjamin B. So, Intern, 2023 Suit Up Alumnus, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA; William T. David, Intern, 2023 Suit Up Alumnus, Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA; JaWayne A. White; Christopher H. Juge II; Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill
Top Right Photo
Pictured: Micah Ince, Chief of Staff & Executive Assistant District Attorney, Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office, New Orleans, LA
Bottom Right Photo
Pictured: Keith D. Lampkin, Chief of Operations & External Affairs, Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office, New Orleans, LA
Day 4, Week 2 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 19, 2025Students began and finished their day working diligently on their Memorandums.
Top Right
Pictured (L to R): Sylvia C. Capiton; Selin G. Greer
Bottom Right
(Pictured L to R): Danie M. Hamilton; Estefania J. Antunez; Macy J. Hall; Bailey I. Williams; Victoria G. Baez; Julianna A. Cunnikin; Tyler D. Bickham; Ximena G. Vasquez; Shelby D. Gordon; Otto K. Massie
Top Left
(Pictured L to R): Adrienne A. Boutte, Intern, 2L at Southern University Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA; Cheyenne M. Lewis
Bottom Left
(Pictured L to R): Ximena G. Vasquez; Tyler D. Bickham; Julianna A. Cunnikin
Day 3, Week 2 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 18, 2025On the third day of week two of the Suit Up for the Future program, students participated in job shadowing opportunities.
Thank you, employers!
Top Right Photo
(Pictured L to R): Micah Ince, Chief of Staff & Executive Assistant District Attorney, Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office, New Orleans, LA; Abigail A. Schoen; Jason Williams, District Attorney, Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office, New Orleans, LA
Top Left Photo
(Pictured L to R): Jamine Bellard, Entergy-sponsored ATJ Developing Leadership Intern, Louisiana State Bar Association, New Orleans, LA; Cheyenne M. Lewis; Marcus Brown, General Counsel, Entergy Services, Inc., New Orleans, LA; Otto K. Massie
Bottom Left Photo
(Pictured L to R): Judge Shayna Beavers Morvant, Twenty Fourth Judicial District Court, Division M, Gretna, LA; Shelby D. Gordon
Bottom Right Photo
(Pictured L to R): Bailey I. Williams; Stephanie Poucher, Phelps Dunbar LLP, New Orleans, LA; Emma L. Ladisky
Day 2, Week 2 of Suit Up for the Future Program -June 17, 2025On the second day of week two of the Suit Up for the Future program, students participated in job shadowing opportunities.
Thank you, employers!
On the Left
(Pictured L to R): Macy J. Hall; Otto K. Massie; Darleene D. Peters, Partner, Irwin Fritchie Urquhart Moore & Daniels LLC, New Orleans, LA
Top Right
(Pictured L to R): Casey B. Wendling, Partner, Deutsch Kerrigan, L.L.P. New Orleans, LA; Catherine R. Filippi, Deutsch Kerrigan, L.L.P. New Orleans, LA; Makenzie R. Jackson; Christopher H. Juge II, Victoria G. Baez; Karina Shareen, Deutsch Kerrigan, L.L.P., New Orleans, LA
Bottom Right
(Pictured L to R): Demarcus J. Gordon, Partner, Kelly Hart & Pitre, New Orleans, LA; Bailey I. Williams; Shelby D. Gordon; Angelica H. Rodriguez; Loulan J. Pitre, Partner In Charge, Kelly Hart & Pitre, New Orleans, LA
Day 1, Week 2 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 16, 2025The first day of week two of Suit Up began with a field trip to Loyola University New Orleans College of Law and Tulane University Law School, where they were given tours of the campus. Kimberly Jones, MS, JD, Director of Law Admissions at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, provided the tour and presentation at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. Emily Wojna-Hodnett, J.D., Assistant Director of Admissions, Tulane University Law School; Julia M. Spencer, J.D., Assistant Director of Admissions at Tulane University Law School, provided the tour and presentation at Tulane University Law School. The day concluded with the students having dessert with their job shadowing employers.
First Row (Pictured L to R): Julianna A. Cunnikin; Cheyenne M. Lewis; Sylvia C. Capiton; Macy J. Hall, Angelica H. Rodriguez; Nhachi C. Vu
Second Row (Pictured L to R): Makenzie R. Jackson; Victoria G. Baez; Emma L. Ladisky; Otto K. Massie; Shelby D. Gordon; Ximena G. Vasquez; Estefania J. Antunez; Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill
Third Row (Pictured L to R): Christopher H. Juge II; Tyler D. Bickham; Mary C. Bowlin; Ja’Wayne A. White; Danie M. Hamilton; Selin G. Greer; Abigail A. Schoen; Bailey I. Williams
Fourth Row (Pictured L to R): William T. David, Intern, 2023 Suit Up Alumnus, Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
Day 5, Week 1 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 13, 2025The final day of week one of Suit Up began with students having an interactive college admissions session led by Dylan G. Rhoton, a 2022 Suit Up alumnus currently attending Harvard University in Cambridge, MA.
In the afternoon, the students then travelled on a tour of the United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana Courthouse, presented by Honorable Karen Wells Roby, Chief Magistrate Judge. Following the courthouse tour, Judge Roby provided a detailed presentation on the Federal Court.
Top Right (Pictured): Honorable Karen Wells Roby, Just the Beginning (JTB), Magistrate Judge, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, New Orleans, LA
Bottom Right (Pictured L to R): William T. David, Intern, 2023 Suit Up Alumnus, Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA; Victoria G. Baez; Ximena G. Vasquez
Top Left Pictured (L to R): Sylvia C. Capiton; Macy J. Hall; Dylan G. Rhoton, 2022 Suit Up Alumnus, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA; Angelica H. Rodriguez; Bailey I. Williams
Bottom Left (Pictured L to R): Nhachi C. Vu; Mary C. Bowlin; Estefania J. Antunez; Macy J. Hall; Emma L. Ladisky
Day 4, Week 1 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 12, 2025On the fourth day of Suit Up, students began their morning with a College and Law School Admission Preparation workshop presented by Blair R. Boles, Assistant Director of Admissions, LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center, and Breleigh Bentivegna, Admissions Counselor at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, LA. During the workshop, interns received valuable guidance on the college admissions process, including practical tips for writing effective personal statements.
Following the admission preparation workshops, Professor Angela A. Allen-Bell, B. K. Agnihotri Endowed Professor, Southern University Law Center, presented an abbreviated law class on Transitional Justice and Constitutional Law.
Professor Jeffrey C. Brooks, Assistant Professor of Professional Practice, LSU Paul M. Herbert Law Center, stressed the importance of using impactful language during his Oral Argument Workshop.
The day concluded with Suit Up interns assisting students with Memorandum Outline Preparation.
Top Left
Pictured (L to R): Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill; Abigail A. Schoen; Professor Jeffrey C. Brooks, Assistant Professor of Professional Practice, LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA; Otto K. Massie; Bailey I. Williams
Bottom Left
Pictured (L to R): Abigail A. Schoen; Ximena G. Vasquez; Breleigh Bentivegna, Admissions Counselor, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA; Otto K. Massie; Estefania J. Antunez
Top Right
Pictured: Blair R. Boles, Assistant Director of Admissions, LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center
Bottom Left
Pictured (L to R): Ximena G. Vasquez; Abigail A. Schoen; Professor Angela A. Allen-Bell, B. K. Agnihotri Endowed Professor, Southern University Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA; Angelica H. Rodriguez; Mary C. Bowlin
Day 3, Week 1 of Suit Up for the Future Program - June 11, 2025On the third day of Suit Up, the students began their morning with a Memorandum and Oral Argument Preparation session, which included viewing past oral arguments presented by former Suit Up interns.
Following the preparation session, the Suit Up Interns provided valuable information on how to create a dynamic resume. The day concluded with Memorandum Outline Preparation.
Top Right Pictured (L to R): Sylvia C. Capiton; Bailey I. Williams
Top Left Pictured (L to R): Selin G. Greer; Ja’Wayne A. White; Danie M. Hamilton
Bottom Left Pictured (L to R): Otto K. Massie; Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill; Adrienne A. Boutte, Intern, 2L at Southern University Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA
Bottom Right Pictured (L to R): Abigail A. Schoen; Nhachi C. Vu; Mary C. Bowlin; Estefania J. Antunez
Day 2, Week 1 of Suit Up for the Future Program – June 10, 2025On the second day of Suit Up for the Future, Suit Up interns assisted students with Memorandum Outline Preparation.
Following Memorandum Outline Preparation, students stepped into the classroom for a presentation on Contracts. Instruction was provided by Professor Kenya J. H. Smith, Associate Law Professor, Byron R. Kantrow Endowed Professor of Law, Wedon T. Smith Endowed Professor in Civil Law #2, LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA.
Top Right (Pictured L to R): Otto K. Massie; Angelica H. Rodriguez; Professor Kenya J. H. Smith, Associate Law Professor, Byron R. Kantrow Endowed Professor of Law, Wedon T. Smith Endowed Professor in Civil Law #2, LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA; Ximena G. Vasquez; Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill
Top Left (Pictured L to Right): Macy J. Hall; Emma L. Ladisky; Professor Kenya J. H. Smith, Associate Law Professor, Byron R. Kantrow Endowed Professor of Law, Wedon T. Smith Endowed Professor in Civil Law #2, LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA; Estefania J. Antunez; Abigail A. Schoen
Bottom Right (Pictured): Benjamin B. So, Intern, Suit Up Alumnus 2023, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
Bottom Left (Pictured L to R): Bailey I. Williams; Selin G. Greer; Ja’Wayne A. White; Danie M. Hamilton; Angelica H. Rodriguez; Otto K. Massie; William T. David, Intern, Suit Up Alumnus 2023, Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
Day 1, Week 1 of Suit Up for the Future Program – June 9, 2025
Twenty-two local 11th-grade, 12th-grade, and recent high school graduate students received a warm welcome to the 2025 Louisiana State Bar Association's Suit Up for the Future program from Edward J. Walters, Jr., LSBA President 2025-26, and Honorable Karen Wells Roby, Just the Beginning (JTB) Coordinator, Magistrate Judge, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana. LSBA's Pipeline to Diversity and Outreach Subcommittee Past Co-chair Denia S. Aiyegbusi and Co-Chair Tiffany L. Delery also made welcoming remarks and facilitated activities that revolved around the question: "What does it mean to be a lawyer?"
In the afternoon, Suit Up students stepped into the classroom for a lesson on Legal Research and Writing. Instruction was provided by Professor Emily A. Bishop, Director of the Lawyering Program and Professor of Practice, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law.
Thank you to our presenters for making Day 1 of Suit Up for the Future a success!Research and Writing. Instruction was provided by Professor Emily A. Bishop, Director of the Lawyering Program and Professor of Practice, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law.
Thank you to our presenters for making Day 1 of Suit Up for the Future a success!
Top Right (Picture L to R): Tyler D. Bickham; Sylvia C. Capiton; Professor Emily A. Bishop, Director of the Lawyering Program and Professor of Practice, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, New Orleans, LA; Bailey I. Williams; Danie M. Hamilton
Top Left (Pictured L to R): Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill; Denia S. Aiyegbusi, Diversity Committee’s Pipeline to Diversity and Outreach Subcommittee Past Co-Chair, CNA Insurance, New Orleans, LA; Emma L. Ladisky; Edward J. Walters, Jr., Louisiana State Bar Association President 2025-2026; Bailey I. Williams; Tiffany L. Delery, Diversity Committee’s Pipeline to Diversity and Outreach Subcommittee Co-Chair, Chehardy Sherman Williams Recile & Hayes, New Orleans, LA.
Bottom Right ( Pictured L to R): William T. David, Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA; Adrienne A. Boutte, Southern University Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA; Denia S. Aiyegbusi, Diversity Committee’s Pipeline to Diversity and Outreach Subcommittee Past Co-Chair, CNA Insurance, New Orleans, LA; Honorable Karen Wells Roby, Just the Beginning (JTB), Magistrate Judge, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, New Orleans, LA; Tiffany L. Delery, Diversity Committee’s Pipeline to Diversity and Outreach Subcommittee Co-Chair, Chehardy Sherman Williams Recile & Hayes, New Orleans, LA; Benjamin B. So, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
Bottom Left (Pictured L to Right):
Top Row: Adrienne A. Boutte, Southern University Law Center, Baton Rouge, LA; Ja’Ryan D. Berryhill, JaWayne A. White; Christopher H. Juge II; Otto K. Massie; Macy J. Hall
2nd Row from Top: Mary C. Bowlin; Shelby D. Gordon; Abigail A. Schoen; Victoria G. Baez; Emma L. Ladisky; Bailey I. Williams; Makenzie R. Jackson; Sylvia C. Capiton, William T. David, Intern, Suit 2023 Up Alumnus Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
3rd Row from Top: Benjamin B. So, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA; Nhachi C. Vu, Selin G. Greer, Angelica H. Rodriguez, Ximena G. Vasquez, Estefania J. Antunez, Tyler D. Bickham, Danie M. Hamilton, Julianna A. Cunnikin
Bottom Row: Denia S. Aiyegbusi, Diversity Committee’s Pipeline to Diversity and Outreach Subcommittee Past Co-Chair, CNA Insurance, New Orleans, LA; Honorable Karen Wells Roby, Just the Beginning (JTB), Magistrate Judge, United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, New Orleans, LA; Tiffany L. Delery, Diversity Committee’s Pipeline to Diversity and Outreach Subcommittee Co-Chair, Chehardy Sherman Williams Recile & Hayes, New Orleans, LA
Specialty Bars Reception - June 2, 2025On June 2, 2025, the LSBA Diversity Committee’s Specialty Bars Subcommittee sponsored the Specialty Bars Reception at Hotel Effie Sandestin, Ara Roof Top Pool and Lounge.
The Specialty Bars Reception was held during the LSBA Annual Meeting and featured an evening of networking.
Top Right Photo
(Pictured L to R): Kim M. Boyle, Partner, Phelps, New Orleans, LA, Deidre D. Robert, President and Chief Executive Officer, Build Baton Rouge, Baton Rouge, LA
Bottom Right Photo
(Pictured L to R): Travis J. Broussard, LSBA Civil Law and Litigation Section Vice-Chair, Founder, Attorney at Law, Lafayette, LA; Alainna R. Mire, 2020 – 2021 Louisiana State Bar Association President, Alexandria City Attorney’s Office, Alexandria, LA; Bradley J. Tate, 2025 – 2027 LSBA Board of Governors Secretary, Sternberg, Naccari & White, LLC, New Orleans, LA
Left Photo
(Pictured L to R): Hon. Roger P. Hamilton, 16th Judicial District Court, Division H, New Iberia, LA; Justice Piper D. Griffin, Louisiana Supreme Court, 7th District, New Orleans, LA; Shawn Lindsay, City of New Orleans Law Department, New Orleans, LA
Leadership LSBA Well-being in the Legal Profession Lafayette – May 16, 2025On May 16, 2025, the Leadership LBA Class held its final session in the three-part series, Well-Being in the Legal Profession, at The Jefferson in Lafayette, LA. The seminar focused on burnout and emphasized the importance of mental health among legal professionals. The event featured a special presentation by Dr. Angela White-Bazile from the Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP).
(Pictured L to R): Kaylin E. Jolivette, Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP, Lafayette, LA; Thomas R. Hightower III, Thomas R. Hightower, Jr., APLC, Lafayette, LA; Dr. Angela White-Bazile, Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP), New Orleans, LA
Leadership LSBA Well-being in the Legal Profession New Orleans– May 12, 2025On May 12, 2025, the 204- 2025 Leadership LBA Class hosted the second seminar in its three-part series, W
ell-being in the Legal Profession. Held at the Louisiana State Bar Association headquarters in New Orleans, Louisiana, the seminar provided valuable insights into the importance of self-care and recognizing signs of burnout within the legal profession. The event featured a special presentation by Dr. Angela White-Bazile from the Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP).
(Photo to Left)
(Picture L to R): Dashia D. Myles, Wood Smith Henning & Berman LLP, New Orleans, LA; Dr. Angela White-Bazile, Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP), New Orleans, LA; Catherine R. Filippi, Duetsch Kerrigan LLP, New Orleans, LA.
(Top Right Photo)
(Pictured L to R): Dashia D. Myles, Wood Smith Henning & Berman LLP, New Orleans, LA; Catherine R. Filippi, Duetsch Kerrigan LLP, New Orleans, LA.
(Bottom Right Right)
(Pictured): Dr. Angela White-Bazile, Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP), New Orleans, LA
Specialty Bars CLE Conference – May 8, 2025On May 8, 2025, the LSBA Diversity Committee's Specialty Bars Subcommittee hosts its Annual Specialty Bars Conference at the Louisiana Bar Center. A variety of topics were covered, allowing attendees to earn 7.00 continuing legal education credits.
Top Right: Paul H. Scott, The Scott Law Firm, Baton Rouge, LA
Top Middle: Micah J. Fincher, Attorney at Law, New Orleans, LA
Top Left: Eric K. Barefield, Professional Programs Ethics Counsel, Louisiana State Bar Association, New Orleans, LA
Bottom Right: J. Dalton Courson, Litigation Director, Disability Rights Louisiana, New Orleans, LA
Bottom Middle: Erin C. Hebert, Ware | Immigration, Metairie, LA
Bottom Left: Shelly L. Skeen, Regional Director, Lambda Legal, Dallas, TX
Louisiana Supreme Court Bar Admission Ceremony – May 5, 2025On May 5, 2025, the Louisiana Supreme Court Committee on Bar Admissions hosted its annual Bar Admission Ceremony at the Pontchartrain Convention & Civic Center in Kenner, Louisiana. Edward J. Walters Jr., President-Elect of the Louisiana State Bar Association (LSBA), delivered the welcoming address.
Pictured (L to R): Chief Justice John L. Weimer III, Louisiana Supreme Court; New Orleans, LA; Edward J. Walters, Jr., 2024-2025 Louisiana State Bar Association President-Elect, Walters, Thomas, Cullens LLC, Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge Bar Association Law Day Ceremony – May 2, 2025On May 2, 2025, the Baton Rouge Bar Association held its annual Law Day celebration, highlighting the importance of the legal system.
(Pictured L to R) Lori E. Palmintier, 2025 Baton Rouge Bar Association President-elect, Brock & Palmintier Law, LLC, Baton Rouge, LA; Loren Shanklin Fleshman, Shanklin Sosa, LLC, Baton Rouge, LA; Very Rev. Michael J. Alello, V.F., Talya J. Bergeron, Southeast LA Legal Services Corporation, Baton Rouge, LA; Tara L. Johnston, 2025 Federal Bar Association Baton Rouge Chapter President, Erlingson Banks, PLLC, Baton Rouge, LA (Photo provided by BRBA)
St. Landry Parish Law Day CLE Seminar – May 1, 2025The St. Landry Parish Bar Association recently hosted its annual Law Day CLE Seminar, focusing on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the legal profession and the importance of professionalism in the courtroom. Guest speakers Leslie Schiff and Damon Manning of Schiff Manning, LLP in Hammond, LA, presented the LSBA’s CLE program titled Machine Learning, Human Responsibility: AI and Legal Ethics.
Joining the conversation were Judge D. Jason Meche, 27th Judicial District Court, Division D; Judge Laura R. Garcille, 27th Judicial District Court, Division B; Judge Charles Cravins, 27th Judicial District Court, Division C; and Judge Gregory Doucet, 27th Judicial District Court, Division A, who shared their perspectives on courtroom conduct and the professional standards expected in today’s legal environment.
(Pictured L to R): William P. Morrow, 2025 St. Landry Parish Bar Association Treasurer, Morrow Law Firm, LLC, Opelousas, LA; Amber L. Vidrine, 2025 St. Landry Parish Bar Association President, St. Landry District Attorney's Office, Eunice, LA; Stephen Morrow, St. Landry Parish Bar Association Past President, Morrow Law Firm, LLC, Opelousas, LA
New Orleans Bar Association Bench Bar – March 28-30, 2025On March 28 – 30, 2025, the New Orleans Bar Association held its annual Bench Bar Conference at the Lodges at Gulf State Park.
Top Left
(Pictured L to R): Monica H. Wallace, Of Counsel, Wallace Meyaski Attorneys at Law, New Orleans, LA, Hon. Omar K. Mason, Orleans Civil District Court, Division E, New Orleans, LA
Top Right
(Pictured L to R): Hon. Kern A. Reese, Orleans Civil District Court, Division L, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Dana M. Douglas, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, New Orleans, LA; Justin I. Woods, Clerk of Court, Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal, New Orleans, LA; J. Bert Kelly III, Partner, Alvendia, Kelly & Demarest Law Firm, New Orleans, LA
Bottom Left
(Pictured L to R): Lauren S. Bennett, Orleans Parish Civil District Court, New Orleans, LA; Hon. Lakeisha N. Jefferson, Orleans Parish Civil District Court, Division H, New Orleans, LA
Bottom Right
(Pictured L to R): Sharonda R. Williams, Fishman Haygood, LLP, New Orleans, LA; Justice John M. Guidry, Louisiana Supreme Court, Second Supreme Court District, New Orleans, LA; Laura C. Settlemyer, Attorney at Law, New Orleans, LA
Southwest Louisiana Bar Association Bench Bar – March 13 – 15, 2025The Southwest Louisiana Bar Association held its annual Bench Bar Conference from March 13–15, 2025, at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa in Houston, Texas. The conference provided attendees with the opportunity to earn six CLE credit hours while engaging in professional development and networking.
Photo on Left: (Pictured L to R): Ezra Pettis, Jr., 2024 - 2025 Bench Bar Conference Chair, Delphin Law Offices, PLC, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. John Michael Guidry, Associate Justice, Louisiana Supreme Court, Baton Rouge, LA.
Photo in Middle (Pictured L to R): J.B. Sanchez; Jennifer Jones, Sanchez Burke, LLC, Cameron, LA; Katherine B. Remy, Veron, Bice, Palermo & Wilson, Lake Charles, LA; Vincent R. Arnona, Arnona Rose, LLC, Metairie, LA; Peyton F. Pawlicki, Veron, Bice, Palermo & Wilson, Lake Charles, LA; Shayna L. Sonnier, 2024 – 2025 Southwest Louisiana Bar Association President, Vernon Bice, LLC, Lake Charles, LA; Joey Williams, 2025 – 2026 Southwest Louisiana Bar Association President, Williams Family Law Firm, LLC, Natchitoches, LA and his spouse, Jordan Kolde
Photo on Right (Pictured L to R): Hon. Van Kyzar, Louisiana Court of Appeal, Third Circuit, Lake Charles, LA; Hon. Sharon D. Wilson, Louisiana Court of Appeal, Third Circuit, Lake Charles, Lake Charles, LA; Ezra Pettis, Jr., 2024 - 2025 Bench Bar Conference Chair, Delphin Law Offices, PLC, Lake Charles