CLEO Prepares to Celebrate Historic 45th Anniversary

Reception to Recognize 135 Inaugural "William A. Blakey Diversity Pipeline Architects"

LARGO, Md., Sept. 24, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Council on Legal Education (CLEO) will recognize 45 individuals, 45 law schools and 45 law firms, corporations and associations for their generous support of CLEO at the organization's 45th Anniversary Reception. The reception takes place Thursday, September 26 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

The 135 honorees are being recognized as the inaugural group of "William A. Blakey Diversity Pipeline Architects," in honor of CLEO's late beloved chairman/chairman emeritus, William "Buddy" Blakey.

CLEO's Executive Director, Cassandra Sneed Ogden, said "CLEO is very proud of our 45 years of helping to 'change the face' of the legal profession. We are truly excited about acknowledging our inaugural group of 'William A. Blakey Diversity Pipeline Architects' in the nation's capital.  Without their ongoing support, it would have been difficult to carry out the important work the organization has done since 1968. We also take great joy in knowing that Buddy would be extremely pleased to see his legacy carried on in this fashion. This is a major milestone in CLEO's long and storied existence and we look forward to having a great turnout at next month's reception."

Mr. Blakey dedicated the majority of his professional life to ensuring that the educational "pipeline" was readily accessible to all students who exhibited the aptitude, fortitude, and passion to successfully pursue a quality education. By supporting CLEO and organizations like it, these "architects" are doing their part to help ensure that the legacy Buddy worked diligently to establish is carried on in perpetuity.

To see a complete listing of the 135 "William A. Blakey Diversity Pipeline Architects" and for more specific details about the reception, please visit CLEO's "45 for 45" event page. For more information about CLEO, its 45th anniversary celebration, and/or the inaugural "William A. Blakey Diversity Pipeline Architects," please contact Leigh Allen II, CLEO's Director of Mentoring & Development (see contact info below).

About CLEO
Established in 1968 to expand opportunities for minority and low-income students to attend law school, CLEO is the oldest national pipeline organization committed to diversifying the legal profession. More than 8,500 students have participated in CLEO's pre-law, law school academic and professional development programs. Persons interested in learning more about CLEO are encouraged to visit our websites at www.cleoscholars.org (pre-law) and www.cleodivercitynetwork.org (law students, alumni, and legal professionals).  

Contact: Leigh Allen II
Telephone: 240-582-8600 ext. 201
Email: Leigh.Allen@americanbar.org

SOURCE Council on Legal Education (CLEO)