“I recall wanting to be an attorney in fourth grade. My teacher assigned our class to write about our future aspirations, and I confidently wrote that I wanted to be a judge. I viewed becoming an attorney as the essential first step toward that goal.” Today's woman dreamer is Avana Epperson-Temple, President of the Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association. In this interview, Avana reflects on her childhood ambition to become a lawyer and how that dream evolved into a passionate career advocating for others. She discusses her work advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the legal profession, her leadership role at Pine Street Inn in combating homelessness, and her vision for promoting fitness and body diversity. Check out the full story!

1. Tell us your story. You are an accomplished attorney, currently serving as the President of the Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association. Where did you grow up, and What inspired you to pursue your legal career? 

 I recall wanting to be an attorney in fourth grade. My teacher assigned our class to write about our future aspirations, and I confidently wrote that I wanted to be a judge. I viewed becoming an attorney as the essential first step toward that goal. Today, I am passionate about my work as a lawyer. I take pride in advocating for others, finding creative solutions to intricate and complex business disputes, and presenting arguments before the court. My career journey in law continues to be deeply fulfilling.

2. Through your leadership role with the Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association, how do you advocate for DEI in the legal sector? What is one key lesson you learned in your role, and what is the biggest challenge? 

 For over half a century, the Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association has been at the forefront of efforts to increase diversity in the legal profession and guide law students and attorneys of color through the intricacies of our legal landscape. The MBLA engages in essential ground-level work, from helping law students apply for internships to creating initiatives aimed at increasing diversity on the bench. We offer programming designed to help individuals navigate the often harsh realities of being Black in the workplace, including addressing microaggressions.

Our biggest challenge is carrying out this important work with limited resources. We have no paid staff or full-time volunteers, and the board is responsible for both ideation and execution. Having served on the board for over seven years, I have come to appreciate the importance of clear communication and effective collaboration. The MBLA's leadership team consists of 17 individuals from various parts of the country, including those working in government, in-house, and at law firms, as well as junior lawyers, senior lawyers, and an aspiring lawyer. We work collaboratively to ensure that diverse perspectives are heard and considered. Despite our small size, our leadership team is mighty and dedicated.

As President, I oversee the organization’s infrastructure and operational systems, finances, and human capital. This role has taught me the importance of long-term strategic planning and prudent resource management. By focusing on these areas, we continue to make a significant impact despite our resource constraints.

3.  You are also serve on the board of directors of Pine Street Inn, which provides a comprehensive range of services to nearly 2,000 homeless individuals men and women each day. How does your legal background enrich your ability to serve the greater good? What is your vision in your role as board member? 

Before I began serving on the board of Pine Street Inn, I served as an “Innbassador” for the organization for about six years. Pine Street Inn’s “Innbassadors” is a group of emerging leaders in Greater Boston committed to building support for Pine Street. Through that role, I developed and gave presentations to the sheltered guests about domestic violence, what the courts can do to assist, and safety planning strategies. I already had a passion for advocating for domestic violence survivors and I was fortunate to learn about domestic violence law and procedure while in law school. Pine Street Inn allowed me to bring that passion to their guests.

In addition, my legal background as a civil litigation and trial attorney equips me with a diverse skill set, including advocacy and policy development, strategic planning and decision-making. I aim to use that skill set to strengthen strategic partnerships between Pine Street Inn and other organizations to create a unified front against homelessness. Raising awareness about the root causes of homelessness and advocating for systemic changes to prevent it is also important. This includes advocating for affordable housing policies, mental health support, and economic opportunities.

4. What is your top tip to women aiming to pursue legal careers? If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be? 

I would advise those interested in pursuing a career in law to attend networking events for law students and engage with as many lawyers as possible. Ask them about their practices and day-to-day experiences. This will give you insight from different perspectives and help you start building your professional network.

My advice to my younger self would be to spend time cultivating your non-work identity and to pursue interests outside of your career. Being well-rounded and engaging with perspectives beyond your professional bubble helps you grow as a person and provides balance. Additionally, stay true to your ethical values, as they are fundamental to your integrity and ultimate success.

5. As the platform for women dreamers, what is your next big dream? 

My big dream extends beyond my career in law and centers on my passion for fitness. Having worked as a fitness instructor since 2017, I am committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within fitness spaces, particularly around body size and shape. With respect to my legal career, I am focused on advancing by exploring opportunities to serve on a corporate board and building a robust book of business.

Thank you Avana for sharing your inspiring story with us! We are excited to have you in our global women’s network!