Thompson Hine LLP Back Capital University Law School's Frederick Douglass Moot Court Team

Feb. 18, 2002

Thompson Hine LLP has agreed to provide financial support to the Capital University Law School's Frederick Douglass Moot Court. Created by the National Black Law Students Association, the purpose of the Douglass Moot Court Competition is to expose all participants to as realistic an appellate advocacy experience as can be practicably attained. The Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition promotes and improves legal writing while simulating appellate advocacy experience through the preparation of a written brief and oral argument before a panel of judges.

"We are delighted with the leadership of Thompson Hine and Tom Bonasera in helping Capital advance its mission of preparing future leaders who have not only good lawyer skills, but who also represent the diversity in our community. Capital's students have a strong record of achievement in the Frederick Douglass Competition and Thompson Hine's support will help ensure the continuation of that record," said Capital University Law School Dean Steven C. Bahls.

The Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the most famous African-American of the 19th century. Frederick Douglass' life spanned nearly eighty years, from the time that slavery was universal in American states to the time it was becoming a memory. Douglass freed himself from slavery, and through decades of tireless efforts, he helped to free millions more. His life was a testament to courage and persistence that continues to serve as an inspiration to those who struggle for the cause of liberty and justice.

Thomas J. Bonasera, partner-in-charge of Thompson Hine's Columbus office said the firm has committed to support this team on an annual basis.

"Our commitment to diversity is long term and will be evidenced day-to-day, month-by-month, year-by-year. While the programs and methods to achieve these goals may vary over time, our commitment to diversity will not." Bonasera said. "We are pleased to add this program to our ongoing relationship with Capital University Law School and are heartened that we can help to better prepare our future lawyers," Bonasera concluded.

Established in 1911, Thompson Hine today is among the largest corporate law firms in the United States. Recently, the firm was selected as one of the best Corporate Law Firms in America in a survey of 32,000 corporate directors conducted by Corporate Board Member magazine. With more than 380 attorneys in offices in Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio; Washington, D.C.; and Brussels, Belgium, the firm serve some of the premier businesses in the world. For more information about Thompson Hine, please visit the firm's Web site at www.ThompsonHine.com.