BLSA honors students, grads
—By Lori Craig
Members of the Black Law Students Association gathered with alumni and friends for the BLSA Annual Alumni Banquet April 23.
Held at the Davidson Conference Center, the event featured speakers Catherine Lhamon, assistant legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union, and Blair Taylor, president of the Los Angeles Urban League. BLSA members also honored Daron Watts ’94 as Distinguished Alumnus of the Year and student Cassandra Jones ’09 as Outstanding 3L.
Also recognized were first- and second-year students receiving the BLSA/Public Interest Law Foundation summer grant and the Fulbright & Jaworski 1L scholarships.
Watts, the Distinguished Alumnus, is a litigation partner and head of the West Coast Food and Drug practice group at Sidley Austin LLP. In 2008 he was named to the Daily Journal’s “Top 20 under 40,” which recognizes California’s top lawyers under the age of 40. Watts also volunteers in his community and has made significant contributions to the USC Law community, including conducting mock interviews, judging moot court, supporting BLSA events and mentoring students. He serves on the school's Board of Councilors.
Third-year student Jones, who serves as one of BLSA’s academic co-chairs, was recognized for demonstrating a tremendous commitment to USC BLSA throughout her three years at USC Law. She will clerk for the Honorable Raner Collins next year.
BLSA also recognized first-year students Iman Wilson and Rosezetta Upshaw, who received the Fulbright & Jaworski 1L Scholarships; and 2L Parfait Mwez, who received the BLSA/PILF summer grant.
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