Sept. 5, 2024
12:00 – 5:00 p.m. Program
5:00 – 6:00 p.m. Happy Hour

In-person Event
The Warner Building
150 Ottawa Ave NW
Suite 1500
Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Join us for the Inaugural West Michigan Black Legal Summit, designed for lawyers, judges, law students and legal professionals dedicated to strengthening the Black legal community in West Michigan. With a focus on unity, this summit will delve into key topics such as mental health, practice development and community engagement, providing participants with essential insights and tools to enhance their careers and positively impact the community.

Through a compelling keynote session and interactive breakout discussions, attendees will:

Learn strategies to advance their legal careers.
Identify critical areas for impact and growth within the West Michigan legal profession.
Establish valuable professional relationships and networks.
Contribute to building a cohesive and connected Black legal community.

Listen to the WGVU Public Media podcast recording “M andice McAllister, Warner’s DEI manager and member of planning committee, talks about the event.” Shelley Irwin interviews Mandice McAllister about the Sept. 5 Summit and discusses the purpose of unity and expected vision and action plans.

Don’t miss this transformative event!

This event is open to all individuals who have a commitment to ensuring a diverse legal community in West Michigan without regard to race or other protected characteristics.

Agenda

12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

Registration and networking lunch

1:00 – 1:30 p.m.

Welcome

Charles Ash, Partner, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Mandice McAllister, DEI Manager, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Acknowledgement of Sponsors

1:30 – 2:15 p.m.

Keynote: From Imposter to Impact

Deesha Dyer, Founder and CEO of Hook & Fasten

“From Imposter to Impact” is more than a keynote. It is dynamic storytelling that meets at the intersection of imposter syndrome, joy, healing and community all told through one Black woman’s unexpected experience working for President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama. We’ll unpack the origins of imposter syndrome, while also calling out the oppressive systems that cause Black people to feel they have to fight for their worth, humanity and dignity in professional settings. Authentic and engaging, attendees will walk away feeling inspired and motivated with a focus on creating a thriving environment to cultivate and experience joy.

2:25 – 3:25 p.m.

Breakout sessions (concurrent)

The Power in Our Presence

Ciarra Adkins, Attorney, AQUME Law, PLLC

This presentation will offer a concise overview of the history, evolution and impact of Black Bar Associations. Through an exploration of current statistics and trends, Ciarra Adkins will shed light on the progress and ongoing challenges for Black Bar Associations specifically and the Black Legal community more broadly and provide community engagement strategies designed to mobilize and empower Black attorneys. Attendees will be equipped with actionable initiatives to enhance visibility and showcase the strength and influence of our presence within the West Michigan legal landscape.
Black, Bold and Brilliant: Harnessing Body and Mind in Professional Spaces

Richla Davis, M.Ed, LCPC, Ida Lillie Psychotherapy

In today's demanding professional landscape, the need for resilience and self-care is paramount. Join Richla Davis for an enlightening exploration into the science of body activation and the transformative power of self-regulation through bodily awareness.

Through this presentation, participants will delve into the physiological and psychological impacts of racial microaggressions, gaining valuable insights into how these experiences manifest within our bodies. Richla will provide evidence-based strategies for managing stress with the goal of empowering individuals to navigate high-stress environments with resilience and grace.

Attendees will leave equipped with practical tools for self-care and stress management, as well as a deeper understanding of the importance of building supportive communities within professional spheres.
Building a Thriving Legal Practice

Stephen Drew, Partner Drew, Cooper & Anding

In this session, participants will explore the unique challenges and strategies for success across various forms of legal practice, from solo to large firms. Accomplished lawyer Stephen Drew will discuss critical skills often overlooked in law school, address key skills for scaling a legal practice and how to build a good reputation and leverage professional networks. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to navigate the complexities of running a successful legal practice.

3:25 – 3:40 p.m.

Networking Break

3:40 – 4:45 p.m.

United for Progress: Building a Thriving Black Legal Community in West Michigan

Facilitator: Alex Thibodeau, Director of Gubernatorial Appointments Executive Office of Governor Whitmer
Guest Speakers: Zenell Brown, State Court Administrator, Michigan State Court Administrative Office

In this interactive roundtable, attendees will engage in facilitated group discussions to explore the vast opportunities for enhancing connection and professional growth within the West Michigan Black Legal community. Together, they will share experiences, brainstorm innovative solutions and develop actionable strategies to elevate both the professional and personal lives of Black legal professionals. By the end of this dynamic session, attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of our collective potential and a clear roadmap for moving forward together.

4:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Closing Remarks

Mark Wassink, Managing Partner, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
2024 Black Legal Summit Planning Committee

5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Happy Hour

Enjoy drinks and appetizers on Warner’s patio following the program.

Registration fee of $75 for business professionals and $35 for law students.

Attire:
This is a business casual or “come as you are” event where business casual attire is appropriate.

Parking:
Complimentary parking is available in the Warner parking lot accessible from Ionia Ave NW (between Pearl St NW and Lyon St NE). Take the elevators from the parking ramp to 15R which will lead directly to Warner’s 15th floor lobby. Warner will validate your parking ticket upon arrival.