Designed to inspire, educate, and advocate for increased diversity and representation within the legal field among inner-city students, The Bridging the Gap Tour is led by Capital University Law School students Anthony Hines and Davaughn Golden. The initiative aims to inspire middle and high school students, particularly from Columbus City Schools, to consider careers in law.
“The Bridging the Gap Tour serves as our initiative to expose inner-city school students to a broader spectrum of diverse backgrounds within the legal field. Our goal is to motivate students to pursue their goals and aspirations while fostering the idea of a career in law. This endeavor is personally significant to me, as I first encountered the world of law in eighth grade, and it has been a lasting influence on my life,” said Shaneece Green, Diversity Initiatives coordinator at Capital Law School.
“I am dedicated to advocating for the importance of representation to inspire and support our youth, particularly within the legal domain. It is through grassroots efforts like these that we catalyze social change,” Green said.
The Bridging the Gap Tour is not a one size fits all. Capital adjusts to the need of the school or student group. For example, the tour can be in a panel form, a college or career fair setting, or an individual student speaker.
The Bridging the Gap Tour objectives include:
- Inspiration and Motivation: The tour aims to inspire and motivate students by showcasing Capital Law Students from varied diverse backgrounds who are aspiring lawyers and making a difference in the community even after facing adversities and thriving as their resilient selves. This exposure is intended to encourage students to pursue their goals and aspirations no matter the hardships and barriers life throws at them.
- Introduction to the Legal Profession: The tour introduces the possibility of a career in the legal field to students who may not have considered such paths. By providing insights into the legal profession, it aims to broaden their perspectives and career options.
- Representation Advocacy: The tour aligns with the goal of advocating for increased representation in the legal field. By featuring individuals from diverse backgrounds, it highlights the importance of inclusivity and diverse perspectives in the legal profession.
- Grassroots Social Change: By reaching out to inner-city schools, the tour recognizes the significance of grassroots efforts in bringing about social change. It seeks to plant the seeds of inspiration and change at the community level, emphasizing the role of education and exposure in shaping future career choices.
“By connecting with students, we aim to provide the support and encouragement they need to pursue their aspirations and showcase their incredible potential to the world,” said Hines.