Celebrating Excellence
Honoring our alumni who lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and inspire the next generation of legal professionals.
Breaking Barriers
Pioneering Excellence
Suffolk Law has been graduating Black legal professionals for over a century, beginning with trailblazers who paved the way through determination and excellence.
In 1913, Thaddeus Alexander Kitchener became Suffolk Law School's first Black graduate—a remarkable achievement during an era when most institutions barred African Americans entirely. Born in Jamaica and working as a janitor at Simmons College while pursuing his legal studies, Kitchener exemplified the determination and resilience that would define generations of Suffolk Law students.
Two years later, Thomas Vreeland Jones graduated in 1915, becoming another of Suffolk's pioneering Black alumni. Jones attended Suffolk's evening program while working as a building superintendent, demonstrating the school's early commitment to accessibility for working professionals. His daughter, renowned painter Lois Mailou Jones, would later partner with Suffolk BLSA in 1981 to establish the Thomas Vreeland Jones Scholarship Fund—a living connection between our earliest graduates and today's students.
These pioneers chose Suffolk Law when few options existed, and their success opened doors for every Black law student who followed. Their stories remind us that excellence and opportunity have been hallmarks of the Suffolk experience for over 110 years.
Thomas Vreeland Jones
Class of 1915
Our Legacy
A Lasting Legacy
For over five decades, Suffolk BLSA alumni have shaped the legal profession and championed justice in communities across the nation.
From groundbreaking judicial appointments to innovative legal practice, our alumni embody the values of advocacy, excellence, and community service that define Suffolk BLSA. They serve as judges, prosecutors, corporate counsel, and public interest advocates—each carrying forward our mission of creating positive change.
Through mentorship, leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice, our alumni continue to open doors for future generations while making lasting contributions to their communities and the legal profession.
Excellence in Action
Alumni Spotlights
Meet some of our distinguished graduates who are making their mark in the legal profession and beyond.
Justice Serge Georges Jr.
JD '1996
Judicial Service • Criminal Law
Justice, Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court
Only the fourth Black person to serve on the SJC in its 328-year history. Before his appointment, he served as a Judge on the Boston Municipal Court and taught at Suffolk Law as an adjunct professor.
Nina Mitchell Wells
JD '1976
Public Service • Government Affairs
Former New Jersey Secretary of State
Served as New Jersey's Secretary of State from 2006-2010 under Governor Jon Corzine, overseeing elections, arts, and culture. Later appointed by President Obama to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority board.
Ernst H. Guerrier
JD '1994
Corporate Law • Legal Leadership
Suffolk University Trustee & Former MBLA President
Prominent Boston attorney who served as president of the Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association. Currently serves as a Suffolk University Trustee and actively mentors students through BLSA programs.
Tamela E. Bailey
JD '2004
Corporate Law • Commercial Transactions
Senior Counsel II, National Grid & SULS Alumni Board President
Leads complex commercial transactions as senior counsel at National Grid, with expertise spanning data privacy, cybersecurity, and renewable energy. Serves as president of Suffolk Law's Alumni Board and chairs the Suffolk University Black Alumni Network Leadership Committee.
“Suffolk Law prepared me not just to practice law, but to serve my community with dignity and purpose.
“BLSA taught me that excellence is not just about individual achievement—it's about lifting others as we rise.
Stay Connected
Join the Suffolk BLSA Alumni Network
Share your professional journey, connect with fellow alumni, and help support the next generation of legal leaders through mentorship and engagement.
Alumni Directory Registration
Help us keep our alumni network vibrant and connected. Your information helps facilitate mentorship opportunities and professional networking.
What we collect:
Name, graduation year, degree type
Current role, practice area
Interest in guiding students
How you'd like us to reach you
Having trouble with the form? Email us directly at sulsblsa@sumail.onmicrosoft.com
Get Involved
Alumni Resources
Discover ways to stay engaged with Suffolk BLSA and support current students.
Mentorship Program
Connect with current students as a mentor. Share your expertise and help guide the next generation of legal professionals.
