Students learn about Careers in Law at conference

Vance-Granville Community College served as the local host for a program of the North Carolina Bar Association on Nov. 6 that introduced legal careers to middle school and high school students from throughout the region. The Law Career Fall Conference, entitled “Diversity in the Profession,” is designed to introduce promising students to judges and attorneys and provide them with information about careers in law. The program spotlighted the many career options available to those possessing a law degree and also informed students of the preparatory measures necessary to obtain a law degree. Students were welcomed by Creedmoor-based attorney Roderick Allison, co-chair of the N.C. Bar Association Foundation’s Law-Related Education Advisory Committee, and by VGCC Vice President of Instruction Dr. Angela Ballentine. Ballentine conveyed the college’s excitement about hosting the students on campus.

Next, a panel discussion on careers included paralegal Blanca Borceguin, assistant district attorney Tasha Gardner of the 9th Judicial District (which includes Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties), attorney Lewis L. Hutchison, the assistant dean of admissions for Campbell University’s law school, and Associate Justice Paul Newby of the N.C. Supreme Court.

Diane Wright, director of Law-Related Education for the N.C. Bar Association, encouraged the students to consider community colleges as a starting point for their higher education. Wright started her education at a Florida community college. “Community college helps you build self-assurance and your skill levels,” Wright said. “After graduating from community college with a 4.0 grade point average, I was accepted by all the four-year schools where I applied.”

Finally, students enjoyed hearing a motivational presentation by District Court Judge Herbert L. Richardson of Lumberton. A Nash County native, Richardson became the youngest graduate of North Carolina Central University’s law school and the youngest judge in North Carolina when he first took office.

Above: Panelists who discussed their legal careers included, from left, attorney Lewis L. Hutchison, the assistant dean of admissions for Campbell University’s law school, assistant district attorney Tasha Gardner, Associate Justice Paul Newby of the N.C. Supreme Court and paralegal Blanca Borceguin. (VGCC photo)