On Friday, May 9, the David A. Clarke School of Law held its Hooding Ceremony at the University of the District of Columbia Theater of the Arts. This year’s ceremony celebrated the 50th graduating class and marked the successful completion of law school for 70 graduates.
A keynote address was delivered by Maya Wiley, President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, who urged graduates to use their legal training to challenge injustice and build a more equitable future. Student Body President Angela Banks offered heartfelt remarks on behalf of the Class of 2025, reflecting on the journey they’ve shared, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the strong community they’ve built together.
The hooding followed, with Professors John C. Brittain and Yvette Pappoe—chosen by the students— welcoming each graduate into the legal profession. The hooding marks graduates’ transition from scholars to practitioners of law and guardians of justice.
Interim Dean Angela Gilmore closed the ceremony with the following message: “You are now part of a proud and powerful lineage, the 50th graduating class in the history of this extraordinary institution; you carry a torch lit by generations of public defenders, community advocates, movement lawyers, and servant leaders who believe as you do that law can be a tool for liberation. And remember, you come from one of only six HBCU law schools in the United States. That distinction is not symbolic; it’s transformational; it means you are part of a sacred legacy grounded in struggle and brilliance, resistance, and resilience.”
The ceremony was live-streamed and can be viewed on our YouTube channel here.