2012 Future Latino Leaders Law Camp

The Hispanic National Bar Foundation (HNBF) hosted its 8th annual Future Latino Leaders Law Camp this summer from July 14-22. Twenty five high school students from across the nation spent nine action packed days in Washington, DC. The HNBF Future Latino Leaders Law Camp program aims to encourage Hispanic youth to pursue higher education, ignite a passion and respect for the American judicial system, inspire them with successful Hispanic speakers and provide them with a meaningful experiential opportunity that heightens awareness of career pathways with a law degree. 

These future leaders received tours of the U.S. Capitol, Departments of Justice and State, The U.S. Supreme Court, and White House. Students also enjoyed the culture and history of our nation's capital with tours of the museums and monuments. Housed in college dorms at American University and chaperoned by law school students, these young leaders were immersed in a legal profession preparation curriculum with prominent Hispanic lprofessionals in the DC and Federal legal communities. The classroom and Mock Trial competition experience provided students with valuable skill development. Students learned the value of team work and collaboration, oral presentation skills, critical thinking skills, productive argument and persuasion skills, ability to face challenging obstacles with enthusiasm, and professionalism and confidence.  Students reported that the Law Camp experience was inspiring and life changing.  Thomas Massad, 17, shared, "I want to thank you for what was a truly transformational experience. I didn't realize what an unforgettable week it would be until it happened, and I don't know that I'll ever be able to fully appreciate it. It's given me an unshakable resolve to make a difference, to improve our situation and advance our culture."

More than 70% of our students come from households where they will be the first in their families to graduate from college. After the Law Camp, 100% of students report that they plan to complete a college degree. This program was offered at no cost to the students and their families due to the generous support of our donors and corporate sponsors, Walmart, General Motors, Hogan Lovells, and McKenna Long & Aldridge.