VLS Minority Alumni Society Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary
On April 13, 2012, the Villanova University School of Law’s Minority Alumni Society (MAS) commemorated their 10 year anniversary at a dinner celebration held at the Law School.
In 2002, The Honorable Kathryn S. Lewis ’76 was named the first president of the Society, and 15 alumni were appointed to serve on the Society’s Inaugural Board. Professor Ruth E. Gordon also was appointed to the Board to represent the faculty. Over the last ten years, 8 alumni succeeded Judge Lewis as Society President, and 16 additional alumni served as members of the Society Board.
MAS achievements over the last decade include the MAS Mentoring Program, launched in 2002 through a partnership with the Law School’s three minority student organizations (Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA), Black Law Students Association (BLSA) and Latin American Law Students Association (LALSA)), and the MAS Book Scholarship Fund, established in 2003 in conjunction with the VLS Administration. The Book Scholarship Fund provides scholarships each year to help defray the cost of books for incoming students.
Additionally, between 2006 and 2008 MAS held a series of three major events in Center City, Philadelphia, to address the importance of diversity in the legal profession. Each event was attended by 200 or more members of the Philadelphia legal community.
The 10 year anniversary celebration began with a reception in the student lounge where MAS members gathered together to enjoy cocktails and a variety of hors d’oeuvres while reconnecting with fellow VLS MAS alumni. A power point presentation including photos of MAS leadership and events spanning the decade, prepared by the Office of Alumni Relations, played on the law school’s E boards during the reception. Tours of the new law school building lead by Chan Tran ’13, ran throughout the reception.
Thereafter, guests dined in the Goldberg Commons while listening to a program emceed by April M. Byrd ’95, which featured notable members of MAS reflecting on “Where We’ve Been,” presented by Israel J. Floyd ’73, Chair of the VLS Board of Consultors, “Where We Are” presented by The Honorable Angeles Roca ’95, and ”Where We are Going,” presented by Harrison Lee ’08. The program concluded with remarks from current MAS President, DaQuana L. Carter ’03.
A good time was had by all who attended. We look forward to another 10 successful years!
