Our 2nd annual Rochester Black Bar Association roundtable and networking reception on June 20 was a big success! The event is an exclusive forum to connect law students and young lawyers with practicing attorneys in the public and private sectors. The idea is to support these bright young men and women by helping them build a support system and network.

After a networking reception, the attendees heard practical tips on starting in the legal profession from RBBA President Anthony Orphé, former RBBA President Duwaine Bascoe and attorney Taren Greenidge.

Judge Stephen T. Miller, Rochester City Court Judge, also provided his advice to the group, reminding them to maintain the highest standards of integrity and reputation in the legal community always.

Jamie Page, Senior Manager of Human Resources and Associate Programs, shared her insights and best practices on the associate hiring process. After the group dinner and presentations, the attendees broke into smaller groups for conversations about topics of importance for those entering the legal profession.

Lawyers in Motion

Discussion topics were attendee-driven and included:  transitioning from law school into the practice of law; training and development of young lawyers; and strategies for integration of diverse lawyers in public and private practice.

In a thank-you note to Wendy Kinsella, chair of the Harris Beach Council on Inclusion and Diversity, and Bob Murray, managing partner of our Buffalo office, the President of Black Law Students Association at University at Buffalo School of Law wrote:

“On behalf of UB BALSA, I want to thank you for taking the time to host the RBBA event last night. We all greatly enjoyed learning from the attorneys and hearing their advice on how to effectively navigate the legal field. It is through such opportunities that we as a community are further enriched when we share in our experiences.”

Attorneys and staff from across Harris Beach offices participated in this event: Adewoye Adegoke, H. Todd Bullard, Alexandra Casey, Heidi Gregory, Daniel Guzman, Chris Jagel, Bob Murray, Brian Roy, Jessica Simonetti, Chris Williams and Courtney Lusk.

We are so excited about continuing to make an impact in partnership with great organizations such as SUNY Buffalo.