Tell me about your regular practice area: Where do you practice and what do you do? What do you love most about your job?

Currently, I serve as the Associate Director of Diversity and Inclusion in the Office of Career and Professional Development at Wake Forest University School of Law. Prior to joining Wake Law, I worked as a large law firm doing product liability and business litigation defense work. I started my legal career in legal services. What I love most about my current position is the ability to work with law students in helping to guide their legal careers.

 

What is your most recent pro bono experience?

One of my most recent pro bono experiences was participating in all 6 of the COVID-19 Virtual Hotlines. It was a very rewarding experience. 

 

How has engaging in pro bono legal service enriched your career, or enriched you personally or professionally?

Pro bono and community service has impacted me profoundly both personally and professionally. I come from a family of servant leaders, my parents and grandmother were educators and my grandfather was a Methodist minister. As a lawyer, I recognize that I have specialized knowledge and skills to serve my community and I take this responsibility very seriously. “Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.” ~ Marian Wright Edelman

 

Of what moment(s) from your pro bono work are you the most proud?

I think the service that I am most proud of recently has been my work in assisting clients to expunge their criminal records. Being able to assist clients with clearing their records will have a positive impact on their lives far beyond the service that I provided. It can change the trajectory of their lives and the lives of their family.

 

What advice would you give someone who has not yet provided any pro bono work?

Look for opportunities to get involved in pro bono projects that are related to your area of practice. There are a wealth of resources, people, training, and documents, available to assist you. You will find that your pro bono experiences will not only enhance your legal skills and it will enrich your life beyond measure.