The UHM Richardson Black Law Students Association represents a vital student community within the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii - Manoa in Honolulu, Hawaii. This organization embodies the law school's core mission: developing highly qualified, ethical professionals through excellence in teaching, scholarship, and public service.
At its foundation, the association connects Black law students within a collaborative, multicultural community that celebrates Hawaii's diversity and values. The William S. Richardson School of Law has long recognized its special responsibility to the state and the Pacific region, fostering an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to advancing justice.
The law school itself carries a distinguished legacy, having produced notable alumni including Sabrina McKenna '82, who became Acting Chief Justice of the Hawaii Supreme Court, and many others who have gone on to leadership positions in law and public service. This heritage of developing ethical leaders creates a rich context for student organizations like the Black Law Students Association to flourish.
Members of this association benefit from being part of an institution that leads nationally in specialized areas including Native Hawaiian Law and Pacific-Asian Legal Studies, fields particularly relevant to the Hawaii and broader Pacific communities. The organization provides peer support, mentorship, and community engagement opportunities within a law school environment that consistently demonstrates excellence in teaching and maintains strong connections to the broader legal profession.
Based in Honolulu, the UHM Richardson Black Law Students Association serves as an important affinity group fostering belonging, professional development, and meaningful connections among students committed to using their legal education to serve their communities and advance the rule of law.
Honolulu, HI