Tyler Parker has spent the past 10 months tirelessly creating opportunities for diversity to thrive in the legal world. She organized the largest National Black Law Students Association pre-law symposium in the organization’s history. From her roots at the University of Kentucky to her journey in NBLSA, the skills she gained while in the College of Communication and Information have helped her grow in her career and work toward her aspirations.
“I am proud of my work to raise the percentage of Black lawyers in the United States,” Parker said. “My only hope is that I have inspired one more person to apply to law school despite their fears, insecurities or doubts.”
Parker’s journey with the NBLSA has evolved over time, serving in leadership roles such as regional director of career and professional development and the regional director of pre-law affairs. In these roles, she served Black law and pre-law students across fifteen states, including all Ohio and Kentucky law schools and over fifty NBLSA chapters.
“I had a great experience, but I desired to expand my reach and impact the organization on a national level,” Parker said.
In May 2023, Parker was appointed as NBLSA's national director of pre-law affairs. In this role she spearheaded initiatives to empower aspiring lawyers of color, from negotiating contracts with key organizations to mentoring pre-law students nationwide.
Recently, Parker received the MVP Award from NBLSA. The award represents her efforts in fostering inclusivity and opportunity in the legal profession. She emphasized how her background in CI has given her crucial skills in concise writing and accuracy, which proved invaluable in her legal career.
“I credit my legal writing skills to the stellar education I received as a journalism major at UK,” Parker said. “I’m not sure if many people know how transferable journalism skills are to law practice.”
Looking ahead, Parker is set to work as an associate at Taft Stettinius & Hollister, while continuing to lead Black Women in Law, the nonprofit organization she founded dedicated to elevating Black women in the legal field.
“The greatest lesson I have learned throughout law school is the importance of social advocacy and the need for lawyers dedicated to advancing diversity within the profession,” Parker said. “Only five percent of lawyers are Black. Because of my leadership experiences, I plan to become a fierce social advocate. My lifelong goal is to diversify the legal profession, particularly for Black women.”