As the nation’s largest chapter of the Black Law Students Association (BLSA), Harvard BLSA is proud of our rich heritage on the Harvard Law School campus and in the community at large. At Harvard BLSA, our goal is simple. We endeavor to improve the academic, personal and professional development of our members—all done with a keen awareness of giving back to our communities. Harvard BLSA is an organization founded on the premise of Building, Leading Serving and Advocating for our communities and ourselves. Years after our founding, we are still ecstatic about this noble mission.
In the fall, we will kick-off a year-long series of programming and initiatives meant to make this the year of the DREAM:
Diversity
The value of having a mix of opinions and backgrounds cannot be overstated. Last year, it was the creativity of our e-board members and their diverse passions that allowed us to move BLSA in new directions. Diversity of opinion also stimulates healthy debate within BLSA and challenges us to confront complex issues such as where we stand as an organization on issues involving race. We will endeavor to continue to welcome and explore diversity of members and thought.
Responsiveness
BLSA must capitalize on the diversity of our members by being responsive. BLSA will strive to be responsive not only to feedback but to broader issues and events as well. While there is a wide range of expectations, opinions, and desires of BLSA members, BLSA will do its best this year to hear and respond to every member.
Efficiency
Efficiency is directly tied to effectiveness. We will work to restructure the zone system and develop online mechanisms for submitting program planning forms, reimbursement forms, and additions to the newsletter. BLSA will also be streamlining programming with the goal of producing quality programs.
Ambition
Our hope is that by making BLSA more efficient, there will be more energy that can be directed toward new and exciting programming and initiatives. This should be a year when we aim for the stars and take things to the next level. We want each BLSA member to commit with us to moving beyond what has been done in the past and really striving for the best BLSA possible.
Mixture
Finally, one of the most important things about BLSA is the sense of community; each member should feel as if they are a valued part of BLSA. This year we will build stronger inter-class relationships and ensure that the next 1L class is easily able to mesh with our current community while also preserving our relationship with alumni.
On that note, to the incoming Class of 2014, welcome! We at Harvard BLSA cannot wait to meet you and bring you into the BLSA Family at HLS. To the Class of 2011, congratulations and thank you for the memories, lessons and friendships. Your BLSA Family is so excited for your futures!
For visitors and friends of BLSA, please check out the website for more information on our organization and our initiatives. Thank you for visiting!
Best,
Reese Fogle
2011-2012 Harvard BLSA President
