Black Women Leading in Law
A Tribute to Jean Camper Cahn
Taking place at Heritage Hall the event promises an insightful interview
Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Heritage Hall, UDC Student Center
4200 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008
About Black Women Leading in Law
Join us for Black Women Leading in Law, a signature gathering that reflects UDC Law’s deep commitment to shaping the professional identities, leadership strength, and career pathways of our students. This event honors the powerful legacy of Jean Camper Cahn, the first Black woman to co-establish a law school, and highlights UDC Law’s longstanding role as a catalyst for justice-driven legal leadership.
Held at Heritage Hall, the evening will center on a compelling conversation among three distinguished leaders in legal education:
Interim Dean Angela Gilmore
University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law
Dean Renée Hutchins Laurent
University of Maryland Carey School of Law
Dean LaVonda Reed
University of Baltimore School of Law
The discussion will be moderated by Assistant Professor Shakisha A. Morgan, UDC Law, guiding a thoughtful exchange on leadership, mentorship, institutional responsibility, and what it means to advance equity and access within today’s legal landscape.
Guests will also enjoy networking, passed hors d’oeuvres, and wine, creating a welcoming space for meaningful dialogue and connection across generations of legal changemakers.
As one of only six HBCU law schools in the nation and a national leader in clinical and experiential education, UDC Law continues to provide a rigorous foundation that merges theory with practice. Through intentional mentorship and a strong community of support, we prepare students to become principled, skilled, and courageous advocates.
Black Women Leading in Law is more than a program; it is a celebration of history, progress, and leadership, and an invitation to engage at the intersection of legacy, innovation, and future impact.