The D. Augustus Straker Bar Foundation, Inc., recently announced that the deadline for applications for its inaugural Harry J. Pearce Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship is Monday, April 16. The Straker Foundation awards scholarships for minority students seeking financial assistance in the pursuit of a degree in law. There will be one scholarship awarded at the D. Augustus Straker Bar Association's Corporate Counsel Breakfast, on Thursday, April 26, at the Skyline Club in Southfield.
On May 16, 1989, Harry Pearce, former general counsel of General Motors, authored a letter to GM's outside counsel requesting that diverse lawyers be utilized on GM's legal matters. On April 28, 2017, the Straker Bar Association honored Pearce for his efforts and recognizing the "butterfly effect" his letter had amongst other general counsels and law firms. Pearce recognized D. Augustus Straker and the Association for its efforts to reinforce the principle that the legal profession benefits from diverse lawyers and presented a substantial gift to the Straker Bar Foundation. The gift has endowed the Harry J. Pearce Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship. The Foundation will award a scholarship to a third year, minority law student who can clearly articulate their vision for advancing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.
To qualify for the Straker Scholarship, applicants must be enrolled in an ABA certified law school program and in their third year of law school in 2017-2018 school year. An application form should be completed and submitted to the email address of Kymberly Kinchen at kkinche1@ford.com no later than Monday, April 16, 2018. Students may contact their respective law school Deans of Student Services or go to the D. Augustus Straker Bar Association's website at http://www.strakerlaw.org to download an application.
Successful applicants must demonstrate scholarly dedication, be involved in school and community activities and be able to clearly articulate their vision for advancing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.
Published: Wed, Mar 21, 2018
