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Feeding the Pipeline— The Future of the Profession
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The Summer Internship Program (SIP) concluded
its 18th year with a celebratory luncheon at the
Bar Center on August 13. Nine student interns
were recognized for their participation in the program.
The SIP is a partnership between the LBA and Central
High School that affords students the opportunity to
intern for local law firms and offices, gaining insight
into the legal profession and the opportunity to interact
with legal professionals, as well as valuable work
experience. In turn, the SIP benefits employers with
increased productivity, the opportunity to impact the
future of the profession, and a great diversity initiative.
The luncheon gave employers a chance to praise the
interns for their hard work, enthusiasm and willingness
to learn. Keynote speaker Hon. Sadiqa N. Reynolds
of Jefferson District Court kicked off the poignant
celebration by sharing her personal story and encouraging
students to follow their dreams, whatever they
may be. The first of many tears at this luncheon came
as Judge Reynolds discussed struggles from her own
youth—obstacles also faced by some student interns.
Joe Gutmann, LBA member and coordinator of Central’s
Law and Government Magnet, said “[t]o me, this
is the truest form of education.”
Students and employers agree that the program truly
provides a benefit to all.
In fact, the SIP Committee received the following note
mid-summer from Beth Buckler at Wyatt Tarrant &
Combs: “[Dwight] has truly been the best student I’ve
worked with in 10 or more years. He’s so smart, pleasant,
great attitude, punctual and accurate in his work.
We’re starting to give him some more difficult projects
because he has done such an excellent job.”
At the luncheon, Wyatt’s intern Dwight Haggard,
turned to his employer with thanks. “I’m happy that
you gave me a chance.”
Another intern, 2010 graduate Christien Russell,
echoed similar sentiments. “This program has given me
so many opportunities.” She discussed the four different
positions she’s held as a summer intern, as well as
ancillary experiences that came along the way, such
as the chance to observe from behind the bench with
Judge Reynolds, working for David Tandy’s mayoral
campaign, and even learning how to tie a bowtie from
Judge Chauvin.
Her employer, Jack Ballantine of Stoll Keenon Ogden,
said “Christien has a style about her…We hit if off right
away and we’ve really enjoyed having her.”
Another intern, Jalyn Hewitt from Dinsmore & Shohl,
reiterated the overall positive attitude: “I loved going
to work every day!”
Each year, student participants continually express
stronger interest and understanding of the profession,
noting the program provided them with a new perspective,
invaluable networking opportunities, and helped
them become professional, productive employees.
Mary Rivard, firm administrator at Stoll Keenon
Ogden, said “[I]t is a real pleasure to support this
program. It benefits everyone to increase inclusiveness
and strengthens our commitment to maintaining an
environment which embraces diversity.”
Many thanks to those who
participated in the 2010 SIP!
Blackburn Domene & Burchett
Intern: Simone Gonzalez
Dinsmore & Shohl
Intern: Jalyn Hewitt
Frost Brown Todd
Intern: Chania Coleman
Helmers DeMuth & Walton
Intern: Hau Le
Legal Aid Society
Intern: Jazmine Hudson
Sponsor: UofL School of Law
Office of the Commonwealth’s
Attorney
Intern: Mashayla Hays
Sponsor: Louisville Bar Association
Stoll Keenon Ogden
Intern: Christien Russell
U.S. District Court
Intern: Gabriel Vaughn
Wyatt Tarrant & Combs
Intern: Dwight Haggard
Thanks also to the Summer
Internship Committee:
Diane M. Laughlin, Chair,
Blackburn Domene & Burchett
Gretchen C. Avery,
Avery & Schurman
Angela L. Edwards,
Dinsmore & Shohl
Hon. Brian C. Edwards,
Jefferson Circuit Court
Joseph P. Gutmann,
Central High School
Hon. Erica Lee Williams,
Jefferson District Court
Helen A. Thompson,
Humana
Thanks also to the following
sponsors:
Blackburn Hundley & Domene
(lunch)
UofL Brandeis School of Law
(internship)
For more information or to sign
up for next year’s program, contact
Program Chair Diane M.
Laughlin at (502) 584-1600 or
dlaughlin@bdblawky.com, or
Cindy Robinson at (502) 583-5314
or crobinson@loubar.org. •
22 Louisville Bar Briefs
www. loubar.org