Salesia Smith-Gordon leads the Sheree D. Cunningham Black Women Lawyers Association

Samantha Vacciana, first vice president of the Sheree D. Cunningham Black Women Lawyers Association, from the left, Freddie Menard, secretary, Kathy Clark, administrator, Salesia Smith-Gordon, president, Latrice Dean, treasurer, Judge Maxine Williams, state judicial advisor, and Judge Shaniek Maynard, federal judicial advisor.
Salesia Smith-Gordon of West Palm Beach has become president of the Sheree D. Cunningham Black Women Lawyers Association.

Salesia Smith-Gordon
The official swearing-in ceremony took place in September aboard a cruise to the Grand Bahamas, “marking the first time a destination installation ceremony has been held on a cruise by any Florida voluntary bar association,” according to a statement released by Smith-Gordon.
“Being sworn in as president on the open sea was a powerful reminder of the vast potential we have as an organization to navigate new paths and expand our horizons,” said Smith-Gordon.
“I am honored to lead SDCBWLA, an association that provides a much-needed safe place for Black women lawyers to exhale, grow, and thrive,” she said. “I look forward to empowering our members and ensuring we continue to break barriers, inspire each other, and create lasting change in our profession and community.”
During the cruise, attendees were able to earn continuing legal education and continuing judicial education credits, as well as take advantage of networking opportunities.
As president, Smith-Gordon plans to spearhead initiatives that align with the organization’s mission of supporting and advancing Black women in the profession. Her priorities include:
● Our Voice Program: An advocacy initiative designed to amplify the voices of Black women in the legal profession, providing opportunities for members to engage in public speaking, publishing, and educational lecturing, strengthening their impact and influence within the community.
● Safety – Physical & Mental Health Initiative: A program focused on the physical and mental well-being of members, recognizing the unique challenges faced by Black women in the legal field and providing resources for self-care and resilience.
● Money Matters: A program of seminars and engagements to enhance financial knowledge and empowerment aimed at building sustainable and generational wealth.
● Mentorship Program: A structured mentorship program to foster growth, development, and support among members, strengthening professional relationships, and enhancing skills across all stages of their legal careers.
The Sheree D. Cunningham Black Women Lawyers Association was founded to create a supportive and empowering community for Black women lawyers, offering opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and collaborative partnerships. For more information, visit the SDCBWLA website.