FAMU Law Students Secure Career Opportunities at First Florida Bar Career Fair
Largest student delegation highlights the University’s commitment to experiential learning and workforce-ready graduates.
Tallahassee, Fla.—March 26, 2026—Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law students made a strong impression at the first-ever career fair hosted by The Florida Bar, with 20 students participating—the largest delegation in attendance.
The milestone event connected law students with employers from across the state, creating pathways to internships and post-graduate employment. Several FAMU law students across the 1L, 2L, and 3L classes secured internships and potential career placement offers as a direct result of their participation.
“Opportunities like this career fair give our students direct access to employers and professional networks that support their transition from legal education to legal practice,” said Cecil Howard, J.D., interim dean and associate provost of academic programs for the FAMU College of Law. “Experiences like this strengthen our students’ readiness for the profession and reflect the College’s commitment to preparing graduates for success in a competitive legal environment.”
Cecil Howard, J.D. (Photo special to FAMU)
The strong showing reflects FAMU’s expanding institutional strategy to increase access to career-connected learning opportunities across academic programs. According to the Office of the Provost, student internships across disciplines have increased by 40%. By 2030, the Division of Academic Affairs expects every academic program to include at least two internship experiences prior to graduation.
Jordan Williams, a second-year law student, said the experience provided valuable exposure to the legal profession and opened doors for future opportunities.
“Attending The Florida Bar career fair gave me the opportunity to connect directly with attorneys and employers who are doing the work I hope to do after graduation,” said Williams. “I have a better understanding now of the career paths available to me, and I am more confident as I prepare for my future.”
Expanding access to internships and other career-related learning opportunities also supports FAMU’s progress on key student success priorities identified in the State University System of Florida’s Performance-Based Funding (PBF) model, including the metric measuring the percentage of students who complete at least two enriching educational experiences called high-impact practices that extend beyond the classroom prior to graduating with a bachelor’s degree.
“The Florida Bar career fair created a valuable space for our students to interact with members of the legal community and explore opportunities that support their professional growth,” said Randolph Reliford, assistant dean for career planning and professional development at the FAMU College of Law. “Experiences like this help strengthen relationships between our students, alumni, and the broader legal community while reinforcing the College’s commitment to preparing practice-ready graduates.”
The collaboration between the FAMU College of Law and The Florida Bar will continue this spring when Sia Barnes, president of The Florida Bar, serves as the 2026 Hooding Ceremony keynote speaker on May 7 at 10 a.m. at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando. She will deliver remarks to more than 100 graduates, offering guidance and practical insight on successfully transitioning from law school into the legal profession.
Legal employers, alumni, and community partners interested in mentoring students, hosting interns, or strengthening career pathways for future attorneys are encouraged to contact Randolph Reliford at (407) 254-3212 or visit law.famu.edu.
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
