Recent News

June 29, 2007

Janica Pierce remembers summer clerkship

~ written by Janica Pierce

In the summer of 2000 as a second-year law student, I participated in the Minority Clerkship Program sponsored by the Columbus Bar Association (CBA) in the City Attorney’s office under the leadership of Janet E. Jackson. That interaction with Ms. Jackson enabled me to develop a meaningful mentor relationship and friendship that exists to this day.

The Minority Clerkship Program put me in a position to enhance my writing skills and develop legal skills advocating on behalf of the City of Columbus in distinct areas. In addition, I believe the program gives minorities an opportunity to showcase their talents in positions or employment that otherwise might not be available. As a second-year law student, I was not privy to participate in law firm employment, but the lasting benefits of my relationships formed while working with the city attorney’s office exceeded all of my expectations. It was Ms. Jackson who encouraged me to accept the employment that was offered to me by Frank A. Ray of Frank A. Ray Co., L.P.A., primarily specializing in civil and appellate litigation. Such exposure equipped me for my current practice.

I am truly grateful for Ms. Jackson’s diligence and support in encouraging me to pursue this career path as I continue to practice civil and appellate litigation as an associate in the law firm of Chester, Willcox & Saxbe, LLP. The Minority Clerkship Program not only serves as summer employment but provides a host of fellowship opportunities that can open many doors in the future.