Kendra is an Assistant United States Attorney in the General Crimes Division of the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia. Kendra also serves as General Counsel to IMPACT, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, whose mission is to engage and build a network of young professionals of color to foster civic engagement, increase knowledge of the political and legislative processes, and enhance economic empowerment opportunities. Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney's Office, Kendra practiced in the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Litigation Division in the D.C. office of Shook, Hardy & Bacon, LLP, where she assisted clients in the defense of products liability lawsuits. Kendra spent six years as a civil litigator in Florida working at Parks & Crump, LLC and the Florida Department of Transportation. Kendra graduated cum laude from the University of Miami School of Law in 2002. In the summer of 2000, Kendra was a law clerk for Florida Supreme Court Justice Peggy Quince. During law school, Kendra was the recipient of the Dean's Honor Scholarship and served as vice president of the Black Law Students Association. She also served as vice president of the Society of Bar & Gavel, an organization where membership yields the highest honor at the University of Miami School of Law. Kendra received the CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Civil Procedure and received honors in Litigation Skills I. Kendra was also a member of the Moot Court Board and the supervising dean's fellow in the Writing Center.
She is a member of the Xi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the National Bar Association, the Florida State University Black Alumni Association (National Board of Directors) the International Legal Fraternity of Phi Delta Phi, Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society, and the Alpha Epsilon Lambda Graduate Honor Society.
Jill Butler is currently the Legislative and Policy coordinator for the National Bar Association (NBA). Jill received her B.A. in Political Science at the University of California at Berkeley and her J.D. from Seattle University School of Law. Jill serves on the Law Alumni Board of Seattle University School of Law and on the Young Lawyers Division board of the NBA. Jill was born and raised in Oakland, California, but now resides in Washington, DC.
Demetris Cheatham is a staff member at the National Bar Association She received her undergraduate degree in computer science from North Carolina A&T State University and a JD/MBA from the University of Maryland School of Law and the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland College Park. She is licensed to practice in the state of Maryland. Prior to working at the National Bar Association, Demetris worked as an Associate at Huron Consulting Group and a technology analyst at Goldman Sachs. She is originally from North Carolina and currently lives with her spouse, Cornelius, in Washington DC.
Aja N. Diamond is an experienced litigator and trial attorney in the labor and employment practice group of Hunton & Williams LLP in Atlanta, Georgia.
Ms. Diamond serves as Vice-Chair of the State Bar of Georgia Diversity Program in which she plans the organization's Annual Fall CLE and Luncheon as well as pipeline and business development initiatives. Ms. Diamond is equally active in the National Bar Association currently serving as the Labor & Employment Law Section Chair and Chair-Elect of the Young Lawyers Division. She previously served as Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Past President Vanita M. Banks and as a Special Assistant for Past President Rodney G. Moore by co-chairing the National Bar Association's Diversity Taskforce. She has also served as the Fundraiser Chair for the Labor and Employment Law Section and as the Professional Development Chair for the Young Lawyers Division. Additionally, she coaches South Atlanta High School's Mock Trial Team and sits on the steering committee for the CPR Task Force for Diversity in Alternative Dispute Resolution.
A summa cum laude graduate of Howard University, Ms. Diamond received her J.D. from the University of Southern California in 2004. She is admitted to practice in California and Georgia. Ms. Diamond is also a registered mediator in Georgia.
Lynnette D. Espy joined the firm's Atlanta office in March 2007 as an associate in the General Litigation Department. She focuses her practice on commercial litigation. She has experience in litigating a wide variety of commercial matters, including matters pertaining to products liability. Lynnette also has experience in litigating matters pertaining to the health, life, accident and disability insurance industry. She has litigated numerous coverage issues, including bad faith, punitive damages and deceptive trade practices claims. She has also defended insurance companies in various interpleader actions. Prior to joining the firm, she served as a judicial intern for Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears of the Supreme Court of Georgia.
Lynnette earned her undergraduate degree, cum laude, with honors in Economics, from Spelman College and her law degree from the University of Maryland. During law school, she was a staff member of The Business Lawyer as well as an associate articles editor of the Journal of Business and Technology Law. Lynnette is a member of the American Bar Association, the Atlanta Bar Association, the Atlanta Council of Younger Lawyers, the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys, and the Gate City Bar Association. She is also the membership chair for the Young Lawyers Division of the National Bar Association. Lynnette is admitted to practice in Georgia.
A native of the Greater New Orleans area, Brandon Garrett moved to the Nation's Capitol in 2005 following Hurricane Katrina. He decided to go to Capitol Hill to develop policies that assist the vast amount of individuals adversely impacted by the devastating events both during and after the storm. He began his career on the Hill by working on economic development and tax policy for Congressman William Jefferson (D-New Orleans). As the Congressman's chief economic advisor, Brandon worked on historic legislation such as the Gulf Opportunity Zone tax credits, renewal communities and raising the levels of the national flood insurance program. He also led Congressional Delegations to the Gulf Coast to advocate for needed appropriations for the region.
After his time as legislative assistant and policy advisor for Mr. Jefferson, he began serving as Legislative Director for Congresswoman Marcia Fudge from Ohio (D-Warrensville Heights). As the Congresswoman's top legislative advisor, he works with Ms. Fudge on economic development, budget, tax and labor issues. He is assuring the Congresswoman meet her primary goal of bringing more jobs to the people of Cleveland. Additionally, he is leading discussions on legislative changes to the Workforce Investment Act and expanding businesses growth and foreign investment into the region. Brandon leads an amazing legislative team that advised the Congresswoman through difficult legislative decisions through her first term in office.
Brandon recently ended his tenure as President of the Congressional Black Associates, where he focused on the professional development of black staffers and increasing the overall minority presence on the Hill. He serves on the board of the National Museum of African Art, member of the Congressional Legislative Staff Association, Washington D.C.'s Tuxedo Ball Committee, member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and a faithful IMPACT volunteer.
Brandon attended Texas A&M University where he served as Vice President of the Student Body and President of his chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi and the National Pan-Hellenic Council. He then attended North Carolina State University, where he received his M.S. in Higher Education. Finally, he attended LSU's Paul M. Herbert School of Law, where he served as class president. Brandon currently resides in Washington, DC.
Ms. Goins serves as Counsel to the United States House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security under the leadership of Chairman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS). Ms. Goins received her law degree from the University of Arkansas. A Dean's List Scholar, she was a member of the Journal of Food Law and Policy and the Board of Advocates. She was also a member of the National Black Law Students Association, serving as secretary for the Midwestern Regional Board.
Ms. Goins is a summa cum laude graduate of Tougaloo College. During her tenure at Tougaloo, she was a Presidential Scholar and active in the Student Government Association, Peer Educators, and the Literary Society. Ms. Goins was initiated into Gamma Omicron Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She also served as a volunteer to the Henley Young Juvenile Justice Center.
Ms. Goins volunteers with Everybody Wins DC, a literary awareness program and numerous other community activities. She is a lifetime member of the Tougaloo College National Alumni Association and an active member of the Washington Area Tougaloo Alumni Chapter.
Ms. Goins is a native of Grenada, MS. She attended Grenada Public Schools and was an active student leader in her community. While in high school, she served on the Christmas in April Board of Directors and the State of Mississippi Student Advisory Board.
Ronald S. Haley, Jr. graduated from Xavier University with a B.A. in Political Science in December of 2003. Ronald Haley graduated Louisiana State University's, Paul M. Hebert Law Center in 2006. While at the Paul M Hebert Law Center, Ronald was member of the National Black Law Students Association, where he served as President of the local chapter, as well as the Southern Regional Chair on the National Board. Mr. Haley was admitted to the Louisiana State Bar Association in 2007.
Ronald is currently practicing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana as the Managing Partner with Haley & Associates Attorneys at Law, LLC. Haley and Associates, LLC specializes in civil litigation, family law, and criminal defense. His firm exclusively dedicates their pro bono hours defending indigent youths at the Juvenile Court in Baton Rouge.
Ronald is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Henry Hunter is the General Counsel of the Collins Johnson group, LLC, an independent strategy and communications firm based in Washington, DC. From 2008-2011, Henry was General Counsel of Public Private Partnership, Inc., a political consultancy. From 2006-2008, he worked in the Legal and Business Affairs Departments of the Washington Nationals Baseball Club.
Henry received his B.A. degree in Sociology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia where he was a member of the varsity basketball team. He received his J.D. from the Georgetown University Law Center after serving as its Student Bar Association President. He is currently as an Alumni Interviewer for the Georgetown Law Admissions Office and on the executive board of the National Bar Association's Young Lawyers Division. He also enjoys mentoring, coaching basketball, travelling and cooking.
The Moore Law Group prides itself on the depth of our experience, our accomplished attorneys, and our committed legal support staff. The Moore Law Group is committed to offering personalized and dedicated service to all our clients. John A. Moore, Esq. the founding member of The Moore Law Group, can respond efficiently, effectively, and knowledgeably to a wide range of issues ranging from commercial litigation to real estate, personal injury, and bankruptcy.
John received his JD in 2000 from The Florida State University College of Law, where he served as the Writing and Research Editor of The Florida State University Law Review. He also received his BS, with distinction, in Business Administration from Florida A&M University in 1996.
Prior to starting the firm, John was a senior associate at the law firm of Powell Goldstein LLP located in Atlanta, Georgia, where he concentrated his practice in the areas of bankruptcy law, bankruptcy litigation, real estate law, real estate litigation and commercial litigation.
Attorney Moore is also very active in the community. He is a member of the 2006 class of L.E.A.D. Atlanta, a comprehensive leadership program for young professionals, a board member of the Young Lawyer's Division of the National Bar Association, and a member of the Atlanta Young Professionals section of the National Urban League.
In addition, Mr. Moore devotes a considerable amount of pro bono time to the Georgia Justice Project and has been selected as a 2005 and 2007 Georgia Super Lawyers' Rising Star.
The Moore Law Group prides itself on the depth of our experience, our accomplished attorneys, and our committed legal support staff. The Moore Law Group is committed to offering personalized and dedicated service to all our clients. John A. Moore, Esq. the founding member of The Moore Law Group, can respond efficiently, effectively, and knowledgeably to a wide range of issues ranging from commercial litigation to real estate, personal injury, and bankruptcy.
John received his JD in 2000 from The Florida State University College of Law, where he served as the Writing and Research Editor of The Florida State University Law Review. He also received his BS, with distinction, in Business Administration from Florida A&M University in 1996.
Prior to starting the firm, John was a senior associate at the law firm of Powell Goldstein LLP located in Atlanta, Georgia, where he concentrated his practice in the areas of bankruptcy law, bankruptcy litigation, real estate law, real estate litigation and commercial litigation.
Attorney Moore is also very active in the community. He is a member of the 2006 class of L.E.A.D. Atlanta, a comprehensive leadership program for young professionals, a board member of the Young Lawyer's Division of the National Bar Association, and a member of the Atlanta Young Professionals section of the National Urban League.
In addition, Mr. Moore devotes a considerable amount of pro bono time to the Georgia Justice Project and has been selected as a 2005 and 2007 Georgia Super Lawyers' Rising Star.
Stenise L. Rolle, Esq., is a native of Miami, Florida. She owns and operates The Rolle Law Firm, PLC, located in Tallahassee, Florida, where she practices in the areas of civil litigation, criminal law, and family law. Prior to starting her own firm, Stenise worked as a civil litigator for Parks & Crump, LLC, specializing in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Stenise is a graduate of the University of Miami School of Law, where she was a recipient of the Deans Honor Scholarship, member of the Society of Bar and Gavel, and served on the Executive Board of the Black Law Students Association. Stenise also holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a Masters degree in Public Administration from Florida A&M University. Stenise is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the National Bar Association, the Tallahassee Bar Association, and Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. She is the proud parent of one son, Donovan.
Born and raised in Dundee, Florida, Joe Briggs was a scholarship athlete at Texas Christian University earning three varsity letters as a committed student leader on campus. After working in corporate America for a few years, Mr. Briggs transitioned into education as the Special Assistant to the President of Florida A&M University while also pursuing a master's degree at the same institution as a State University System Fellow. Once he completed his master's degree, Mr. Briggs decided to further his education goals once again at the Florida State University College of Law earning his juris doctorate in 2006.
During his time in law school, Mr. Briggs was employed as a law clerk by the top tier public finance firm Bryant Miller Olive and was also selected as a United States Senate Legal Extern. Mr. Briggs also completed two years of national leadership on the National Black Law Students Association Executive Board while also serving as a Lieutenant Governor in the ABA Law Student Division, Vice President of the Student Bar Association and as a member of his law school trial team.
After the completion of his externship as a US Senate Legal Fellow, Mr. Briggs was hired by the NFL Players Association to manage their Financial Programs Department. Currently, he is the Public Policy Counsel of the NFLPA and first individual to lead the NFLPA Government Relations Department. Mr. Briggs is also a professor at Georgetown University and often speaks on subjects ranging from politics to sports and everything in between.
David J. Johns graduated cum laude from Columbia University in 2004 with a triple major in English, Creative Writing and African American Studies. His research as a Mellon Fellow served as a catalyst to identify, disrupt, and supplant deleterious perceptions of black males both within academia and society. Following graduation, Johns obtained a Masters degree in Sociology and Education Policy at Teachers College, Columbia University graduating summa cum laude, while simultaneously teaching elementary school in New York. His Masters thesis, "Shadowboxing: Black Male Identity and Independent Schools," examined how Black male adolescents at elite, self-selecting independent schools understand and respond to perceptions and expectations of Black males
Johns currently serves as a Senior Education Policy Advisor to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions under the leadership of Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA). His policy portfolio includes issues affecting low-income and minority students; immigrants and English language learners; neglected youth and foster children; early childhood education; Historically Black institutions, Hispanic Serving institutions, and Tribal Colleges. Johns was recently named one of Ebony Magazines "30 Top Leaders Under 30" and his essay "Re-Imagining Black Masculinity" has been published in the National Urban League's 2007 State of Black America Report.
An avid volunteer, Johns is a member of the Magic Johnson Taylor Michael's Scholarship Program committee and is also on the board of Plan for Success, a non profit committed to diversity in the workplace. He is currently working on several projects to improve literacy among adolescent minority males, strengthen resources available to minority students at elite private schools, and a book project designed to help students navigate the college admissions and financial aid process.
Mr. Johns is from Los Angeles, California and is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.
Angela Rye currently serves as Senior Advisor and Counsel to the House Committee on Homeland Security under the leadership of Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, Chairman. She is charged with developing the general political strategy for the Committee with a focus on assisting disenfranchised, small minority owned businesses.
Upon moving to the Nation's Capital, Ms. Rye co-founded IMPACT (www.impact-dc.com), an organization that seeks to encourage young professionals in three core areas: economic empowerment, civic engagement, and political involvement. The four year-old organization has quickly become a powerful voice and advocate for today's young professionals of color nationwide. Ms. Rye continues to serve as IMPACT's Director of Strategic Partnerships. During her tenure with the organization, IMPACT has formed partnerships with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Rainbow PUSH's Wall Street Project, Young & Powerful, Congressional Black Caucus Political Education and Leadership Institute, Black Leadership Forum, National Bar Association, and others.
Ms. Rye began her career in legislative advocacy upon graduating from Seattle University School of Law, at the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO), which is the umbrella association for the Nation's 120 historically and predominately black colleges and universities on Capitol Hill and with the Executive Branch. At NAFEO, she served as the Coordinator of Advocacy and Legislative Affairs. Prior to NAFEO, Ms. Rye had the privilege of serving as a Legal Extern in Congresswoman Maxine Waters' Los Angeles office. While working in the district office, Ms. Rye learned about legislative procedure and organization, as well as developed favorable public policy for constituents, and assisted in the mobilization and organization of community members to make a difference locally.
Ms. Rye also served as the Western Region Director for the National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA) where she managed and supervised the Western Region Executive Board. Formerly the Legislative Affairs Chair of the Greater Washington Area Chapter (GWAC) for the Women's Law Division of the NBA, Ms. Rye is committed to shoring up efforts to increase knowledge of the political processes for her colleagues and peers. Ms. Rye's reputation for advocacy led to her appointment to the American Bar Association's Government Affairs Committee, where she serves as the YLD Liaison. She is also Chair of the Legislative Committee for the National Bar Association Young Lawyers Division.
Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Angela Rye learned the importance of advocacy through her family's political and community activism. Angela now resides in Bowie, Maryland and is a member of Reid Temple AME Church.
Angela Rye currently serves as Senior Advisor and Counsel to the House Committee on Homeland Security under the leadership of Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, Chairman. She is charged with developing the general political strategy for the Committee with a focus on assisting disenfranchised, small minority owned businesses.
Upon moving to the Nation's Capital, Ms. Rye co-founded IMPACT (www.impact-dc.com), an organization that seeks to encourage young professionals in three core areas: economic empowerment, civic engagement, and political involvement. The four year-old organization has quickly become a powerful voice and advocate for today's young professionals of color nationwide. Ms. Rye continues to serve as IMPACT's Director of Strategic Partnerships. During her tenure with the organization, IMPACT has formed partnerships with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Rainbow PUSH's Wall Street Project, Young & Powerful, Congressional Black Caucus Political Education and Leadership Institute, Black Leadership Forum, National Bar Association, and others.
Ms. Rye began her career in legislative advocacy upon graduating from Seattle University School of Law, at the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO), which is the umbrella association for the Nation's 120 historically and predominately black colleges and universities on Capitol Hill and with the Executive Branch. At NAFEO, she served as the Coordinator of Advocacy and Legislative Affairs. Prior to NAFEO, Ms. Rye had the privilege of serving as a Legal Extern in Congresswoman Maxine Waters' Los Angeles office. While working in the district office, Ms. Rye learned about legislative procedure and organization, as well as developed favorable public policy for constituents, and assisted in the mobilization and organization of community members to make a difference locally.
Ms. Rye also served as the Western Region Director for the National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA) where she managed and supervised the Western Region Executive Board. Formerly the Legislative Affairs Chair of the Greater Washington Area Chapter (GWAC) for the Women's Law Division of the NBA, Ms. Rye is committed to shoring up efforts to increase knowledge of the political processes for her colleagues and peers. Ms. Rye's reputation for advocacy led to her appointment to the American Bar Association's Government Affairs Committee, where she serves as the YLD Liaison. She is also Chair of the Legislative Committee for the National Bar Association Young Lawyers Division.
Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Angela Rye learned the importance of advocacy through her family's political and community activism. Angela now resides in Bowie, Maryland and is a member of Reid Temple AME Church.
James Andrus is a partner with a focus on mergers and acquisitions and investment management.His practice includes a broad range of corporate finance transactions. He represents investment managers in all aspects of their businesses, including organization, capitalization, regulatory compliance, contract negotiation, investments, and mergers and acquisitions. James assists institutional investors investing in alternative investments, including hedge funds, private equity funds, venture capital funds and special situation funds.
Sharon Bridges is a Partner at Brunini, Grantham, Grower & Hewes in Jackson, MS. She practices in the areas of labor and employment, healthcare law and commercial litigation representing national and local corporations. Attorney Bridges draws her litigation expertise from experiences as in-house counsel and a former plaintiff's attorney. She served as Associate General Counsel for Tulane University Medical Center.
A native of Las Vegas, Nevada, Attorney Bridges received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, with Honors, from Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia, and a Juris Doctorate from Loyola University School of Law in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Attorney Bridges is a leader both in her community and within the legal profession. She currently serves as Vice President of the National Bar Association; Advisory Board Member for the National Bar Association Commercial Law and Health Care Law Sections; Executive Board for the American Association of Nurse Attorneys, National Association of Women Lawyers (NAWL) Advisory Board Member and Board Member for the Mississippi Nurses Association Foundation. In 2007, Attorney Bridges was named Mississippi Woman Lawyer of the Year by the Mississippi Women Lawyers Association.
Ms. McAllister is a partner in the Washington D. C. office of the law firm of LeClair Ryan. She serves as the Chair, Federal Government Relations Practice Group. She also served as Chair of the Corporate Diversity Counsel Practice Group and in the Public Law and Policy Strategies group of the Washington, D.C. law firm of Sonnenschein, Nath & Rosenthal. She was appointed by former President William Clinton to serve as the General Counsel of the United States Agency for International Development. She is a member of the Board of Directors of United Rentals, Inc. and Alliant Energy, Inc. Prior to her law firm experience, Singleton held several senior policy and legal positions in the United States Congress, including service as Senior Counsel to the United States House of Representatives' Committee on the Budget. Ms. McAllister also serves as a member of President Obama's Foreign Policy Committee. She is a graduate of the Howard University School of Law.
Kandis Avant is an associate at Miller Chevalier Chartered. She provides legal advice to corporate and individual clients facing civil lawsuits involving the fiduciary duties of corporate shareholders, directors and officers and Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Ms. Avant advises multinational companies on Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA); compliance issues, including development and assessment of company-wide anti-corruption programs; and creation of customized compliance tools. She conducts corporate internal investigations and due diligence related to third parties and in the context of mergers and acquisitions. In addition, Ms. Avant represents individuals facing criminal investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
Ms. Avant participates actively in pro bono matters and has been named a "Pro Bono All-Star" each year she has been at the firm. She also serves as M&C's attorney representative to the Washington Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs.
Prior to working at M&C, Ms. Avant was a law clerk for the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security for two years. On the Committee, she handled Tribal Border Security and technology issues.
Ms. Avant is active in the WBA. For the last year, she has Co-Chaired the WBA Mentoring Committee and is working to implement a formal mentoring program within the WBA. Prior to becoming Co-Chair of the Mentoring Committee, Ms. Avant was an active Committee member and helped launch the first Speed Mentoring event it hosted.
Ms. Avant is a graduate of Cornell University and Howard University School of Law. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta and attends Reid Temple AME Church.
Kendra Brown is currently a second year student at Vermont Law School. Immediately prior to attending law school, she served as Scheduler and Executive Assistant for Representative Maxine Waters. During the 2010 summer, Kendra served as a Legal Fellow for Representative Waters and handled issues relative to the United States House of Representatives Judiciary Committee. While in law school Kendra has had numerous honors, among them a Merit Scholarship, the David Firestone Scholarship for Campus Involvement, and the National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA) Sandy Brown Memorial Scholarship in March of 2010. She is currently the Regional Chair of the Northeast Region of NBLSA (NEBLSA) and has held a number of leadership roles while in school such as NBLSA Congressional Liaison Specialist, NEBLSA Regional Convention Coordinator, BLSA Co-President, Student Bar Association Class Senator, Secretary of the Barrister's Bookstore Board of Director, and Student Ambassador.
She travels frequently to her home state of Maryland where she is very active in the Baltimore community. She currently serves as the Chaplain for Upsilon Epsilon Omega, the Baltimore County Graduate Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Additionally, she is an active member of the Baltimore Chapter of the Links, Incorporated. Kendra graduated from Hampton University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a minor in Business Management. She received her Master of Divinity Degree in May 2009 and will complete her J.D. at Vermont Law School in May 2012.
Acknowledged by President Barack H. Obama as a National Emerging Leader, Christopher M. Chestnut, Esq. is America's next great voice for legal justice. Mr. Chestnut, a native of Gainesville, Florida and graduate of Florida State University and University of Florida Levine College of Law, served on the Florida finance team for then presidential candidate Obama, which helped lead to a convincing victory in the battleground state. One of the most accomplished young attorneys in the country, he founded the Chestnut Firm, with the motto "Justice Because You Deserve It." Simply stated by Mr. Chestnut, "We help people when they need help the most."
In four years, the Chestnut Firm has grown to a multi-million dollar law firm, with three Florida locations, and a staff of 18. Although Mr. Chestnut prefers serving individual clients who have been seriously injured or are victims of wrongful death, the firm most recently participated in an $800 million class action against big tobacco and presently represents clients throughout the country in a multi-million dollar lawsuit for Avandia, a drug that caused heart attacks and death to diabetics (predominately African Americans). Mr. Chestnut states, "I always look for an emotional connection when representing an individual client in a case or a community in a class action because it allows me to fight from the heart, while simultaneously litigating with the mind."
Mr. Chestnut's future plans include expanding the firm's legal presence nationally by giving a voice to those perceived to be silenced. He has embarked upon a journey to bring a higher standard to the legal profession by focusing on professional, ethical, and successful representation.
More than an attorney, Mr. Chestnut is a proven leader. He is actively involved in several philanthropic efforts. The Chestnut Firm supports Pop Warner Youth Football, several high schools, community youth interests, March of Dimes, Childrens Home Society, and hosts an annual Thanksgiving event to provide food for families in need. Additionally, the Firm held their inaugural Holiday Gas Giveaway this past December. Mr. Chestnut believes, "We must reinvest in our communities to ensure that each generation is better than its predecessors."
While at the University of Florida Levin College of Law, Mr. Chestnut served as Vice President of the American Trial Lawyers Association (now the American Association for Justice), a competitor on the University of Florida Trial Team, and a member of the John Marshall Bar Association. During his second year in law school, he formed a real estate holding firm that transforms drug houses into livable houses for working families.
Mr. Chestnut served as the National Chair for the National Black Law Students Association during his last year in law school. He was the first person from the University of Florida elected to serve as Chair to the prestigious organization. As Chair, he lead a capital fundraising campaign of over $100,000, generated over $250,000 in revenue, hosted NBLSA's inaugural Congressional Black Caucus Reception, and increased its membership by 25% to well over 3,000 members.
While at The Florida State University, Mr. Chestnut served as President of the Student Senate, Vice Basileus of Omega Psi Phi, and a member of the W.E.B. DuBois Honor Society. As a college student, he was an avid volunteer and was honored as a Community Service Scholar for his volunteerism in America Reads, Habitat 4 Humanity, March of Dimes, Boys and Girls Club, and tutoring at risk youth in the community. Mr. Chestnut was also a legislative lobbying intern with Public Private Partnership, a firm in Florida that has since relocated to Washington, DC. He also served as a Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Intern and worked in the office of Congresswoman Corrine Brown.
As a speaker, Mr. Chestnut educates hundreds of individuals and professional organizations on the ever-changing legal climate and inspires the nation's youth about the importance of social responsibility and following their dreams. He is regularly featured as a legal expert for AOL Black Voices and the choice of many on whom to call when a major case has arisen. He serves as General Counsel for the Florida Morticians Association and serves on the Board of Directors for the Florida Justice Association.
Mr. Chestnut has clerked for a Circuit Court Judge in the Criminal Court of the 8th Judicial Circuit, the law firm of Morgan and Morgan, and with famed litigator Willie Gary. Mr. Chestnut had the rare experience of participating in multi-million dollar civil trials with his mentor, Mr. Gary, and with his mentor's encouragement at the age of 26, formed the Chestnut Law Firm, LLC, which is a civil litigation firm based in Florida.
Ahmed J. Davis is a Principal in the Washington, D.C. office of Fish & Richardson. His practice focuses on complex patent litigation in a vast range of technical areas, with a particular focus in the areas of chemistry, biotechnology, medical devices, and mechanical and electrical engineering. A trial attorney experienced in all phases of litigation, Mr. Davis has appeared and argued in the Markman and summary judgment contexts in numerous federal district courts; has tried cases in federal district court, the Court of Federal Claims, and the United States International Trade Commission; and has argued before the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Mr. Davis is an active speaker and a frequent lecturer on issues relevant to the patent bar. In addition, Mr. Davis is committed to giving back to the legal community through the development of young lawyers and by increasing diversity within the profession. He is the pro bono coordinator for the firm's DC office, is a member of the firm's Diversity Hiring and D.C. office summer associate hiring committees, and he regularly returns to his alma mater to speak to law students about opportunities in patent law and the importance of judicial clerkships.
In June 2010, Mr. Davis was named a "2010 Nation's Best Advocate: 40 Lawyers under 40," by the National Bar Association and IMPACT. In July 2009, Mr. Davis was named one of the "40 Under 40: Washington's Rising Stars" by The National Law Journal, which noted his litigation accomplishments. Also in 2009, he participated in Microsoft's Advocacy Academy 3.0, which invests in the development of "rising star" trial lawyers at Microsoft's Preferred Provider law firms. Before joining the firm, Mr. Davis was a law clerk for the Honorable Leonie M. Brinkema in the Alexandria Division of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (1999-2000). He also was a law clerk for the Honorable Paul R. Michel at the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (2001-2002).
Edward "Ted" James, II, is an attorney by trade, and a lifelong public servant at heart.
Ted, a native of Baton Rouge, LA, received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Southern University and A&M College. In May 2006, he earned his Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center graduating Cum Laude. In law school he was elected to serve as President of the Student Bar Association while simultaneously serving on the Southern Region executive board of the National Black Law Student Association.
Upon passing the Louisiana Bar Exam, Ted declined an offer to work for the Attorney General's Office and dedicated himself to the recovery and rebuilding of Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita by joining the Office of Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco. In his capacity as the Governor's Policy Adviser on Housing, Social Services and Community Development, Ted assisted in securing a $25 million investment in the Louisiana Housing Trust Fund and developing the Louisiana Relocation Program.
After the Blanco Administration, he worked as a Staff Attorney with the Louisiana House of Representatives. As Attorney for the Committee on Labor, he drafted legislation that revamped workforce development and training, and strengthened Louisiana workman's compensation and unemployment compensation laws.
In 2009, Ted was appointed to serve as Special Counsel to the Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Revenue, where he developed the legislative strategy for the Department.
In 2010, Ted was a recipient of the Baton Rouge Business Report's "Forty Under 40" award and honored by the National Chapter of the NAACP as one of "Top 40 Power Players under 40" who have shown exemplary service in their field.
Ted maintains an active pro bono practice, providing much needed top quality legal assistance to indigent clients. In addition he has a record of dedicated community service through his work with various not-for-profit organizations and spends countless hours mentoring students in Baton Rouge schools.
Ted is currently running for a seat in the Louisiana House of Representatives. (www.teamted2011.com)
Attorney Moore is a Partner with the law firm of Hylton, Adamson, Watson & Moore. In 2010, Ms. Moore was recognized by the National Bar Association and Impact as one of the Nation's Best Advocates: 40 Lawyers under 40. Additionally, the National Bar Association and Impact presented Ms. Moore with the coveted Excellence in Service Award in recognition of her unyielding commitment to community service. Ms. Moore's expertise spans several areas of practice including personal injury and business litigation, as well as family law and domestic matters. Ms. Moore attended the Florida A&M University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems with a minor in Business. Ms. Moore received her Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Florida State University College of Law. While in law school, Ms. Moore received the honor of being invited to become a member of the FSU Journal of Transnational Law and Policy. She was also a member of the FSU Mock Trial Team and placed first at the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyer's Mock Trial Competition and placed second at the Association of Trial Lawyers of America's Mock Trial Competition.
Ms. Moore's professional accomplishments mirror the laurels she achieved during her matriculation at the Florida State College of Law. Upon graduation, Ms. Moore became licensed to practice in the States of Nevada and Florida and became an associate attorney at one of Las Vegas' most prestigious law firms. Ms. Moore quickly built a reputation early in her career for aggressively representing her clients in and out of the courtroom. Ms. Moore has successfully litigated matters regarding business disputes, personal injury, family law issues, landlord/tenant disputes, and employment discrimination.
Ms. Moore is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Florida Justice Association, the National Bar Association, Central Florida Trial Lawyers Association, and a host of other civic and professional organizations.
Chibundu Nnake is a native of Houston, Texas. He attended The Ohio State University on a National Buckeye Scholarship and a Morrill Scholars Program Excellence Scholarship, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with Minors in Spanish and African/African American Studies. At OSU, he served as a resident advisor and the Political Action Chair for the South Area Black Students Association. He was also the 2004 OSU Homecoming King; one of few African American's to hold the distinction in the school's history. He was also selected Most Outstanding Senior. Mr. Nnake is currently a JD/MBA Candidate (Strategy & Entrepreneurship Concentration with a focus on Real Estate) at the Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law and Cox School of Business. He would like to utilize his knowledge and skills at the Department of Housing and Urban Development in the future.
He has been very active in his program, participating in the SMU Cox American Airlines Global Leadership Program in India, and the University College, Oxford Summer Abroad Program in England. He also served as the Law Student Liaison to the ABA Real Property, Trust & Estates Section and completed an externship with the Honorable Harlin D. Hale, Bankruptcy Judge for the Northern District of Texas. Chibundu has also served as Chapter President of the SMU Black Law Students Association and was last year's National Convention Coordinator. Mr. Nnake currently serves as the National Chair of the National Black Law Students Association ("NBLSA"), a 501(c)(3) organization comprised of over 200 chapters and more than 6,000 members.
Will E. Wilder is an associate at Groom Law Group, Chartered, the nation's largest employee benefits specialty firm. He concentrates his practice on litigation matters related to ERISA, and health care. In addition to serving his clients well, Mr. Wilder is committed to serving his community. He currently serves on the Steering Committee for the Institute of Responsible Citizenship's Young Benefactors Group, and is the President of the George Washington University Black Alumni Association. Mr. Wilder is also active in the National Bar Association. He currently serves as the Secretary of the NBA's Young Lawyers Division.
Justice Peggy A. Quince is the first Black female Chief Justice (from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2010), and also she has the distinction of being the first Black female appointed to both the Florida Supreme Court and one of the Florida district courts of appeal. Prior to serving in those positions, she was an assistant attorney general for the State of Florida, where she handled criminal appeals in the state and federal appellate courts. In her years as a lawyer and later as a judge, Quince has always shown a special interest in serving and protecting all the citizens of the State of Florida, but especially minority groups who are underserved. Quince received her bachelor of science degree in Zoology from Howard University and her juris doctor degree from The Catholic University of America.
She has been active in several legal and civic organizations including, most recently, The Florida Bar, The Florida Association for Women Lawyers, Tallahassee Women Lawyers, Tallahassee Barristers, and the Williams H. Stafford American Inn of Court. Chief Justice Quince was recognized as a pioneering woman in the law by the American Bar Association Commission on Women in the Profession with the 2006 Margaret Brent Women Lawyers of Achievement Award. On March 13, 2007, she was inducted in the Florida Women's Hall of Fame. Quince was born in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1948. She is married to Fred L. Buckine, attorney at law, and they have two daughters, Peggy, a graduate of Florida A & M University, and Laura, a graduate of the University of Central Florida.
Twanda Turner-Hawkins is a Managing Attorney for Allstate Insurance Company Staff Counsel. She began her career with Allstate Insurance Co. as a claim adjuster. She later handled Catastrophic Injuries as an adjuster in the field. She completed her Law School Degree at Georgia State College of Law. Thereafter, she joined the Allstate Insurance Co. Staff office in Atlanta Georgia as a trial attorney managing over one hundred cases as the lead attorney. Subsequently, she was promoted to Lead Counsel for the Atlanta office in addition to the Savannah, Georgia office. Currently, Twanda is the Managing Attorney for Allstate Insurance Company and Encompass Staff Counsel for the state of Pennsylvania. As the managing attorney, she is the department head overseeing staffing, business administration, leadership development, and training. Her paperless efforts have reduced real estate cost by 25% and paper, supplies, and postage by 20% for her department. Twanda received the Allstate Distinguished leadership award in 2009 and the William C. Staszak Outstanding Teamwork award in 2010.
Twanda is licensed in Georgia and Pennsylvania. She has argued before the Georgia Supreme Court. She is a member of the American Bar Association, Pennsylvania Bar Association, Philadelphia Association of Defense Counsel, The Barristers Association of Philadelphia, and The Philadelphia Women's Lawyer Division of the NBA. Additionally, as a member of the National Bar Association (NBA), she is a member of the board of governors; she serves on the executive committee as Vice President and as Vice Chair for the Corporate Law Section. Twanda served as a faculty member and course planner for the Pennsylvania Bar Institute teaching a continuing legal education course on "How to Go Paperless" in a law firm.
Aja N. Diamond is an experienced litigator, counselor and trial attorney in the labor and employment practice group of Hunton & Williams LLP in Atlanta, Georgia. Ms. Diamond defends employers in employment-related litigation, including discrimination and harassment litigation, non-competition/non-solicitation litigation, wage and hour litigation and trade secret litigation. She also advises employers on a continuous basis regarding employee counseling issues, develops affirmative action plans and provides training to employers.
Ms. Diamond serves as Vice-Chair of the State Bar of Georgia Diversity Program in which she plans the organization's Annual Fall CLE and Luncheon as well as pipeline and business development initiatives. Ms. Diamond is equally active in the National Bar Association, where she is currently serving as the Labor & Employment Law Section Chair and Chair-Elect of the Young Lawyers Division. She previously served as Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Past President Vanita M. Banks and as Special Assistant for Past President Rodney G. Moore by co-chairing the National Bar Association's Diversity Taskforce. She has also served as the Fundraiser Chair for the Labor and Employment Law Section and as the Professional Development Chair for the Young Lawyers Division. Additionally, she coaches South Atlanta High School's Mock Trial Team and sits on the steering committee for the CPR Task Force for Diversity in Alternative Dispute Resolution.
A summa cum laude graduate of Howard University, Ms. Diamond received her J.D. from the University of Southern California in 2004. She is admitted to practice in California and Georgia. Ms. Diamond is also a registered mediator in Georgia.
