Southern University Law Center (SULC) has reached a landmark achievement in legal education for the first time in it’s history.
Founded in 1947 in response to the exclusion of African American students from state law schools, Southern University Law Center was created to break barriers in legal education and advocate for equity during a time of institutional injustice. Created by the Louisiana State Board of Education to serve Black students during segregation, SULC has grown into one of the nation’s most racially diverse law schools. Over the decades, it has produced revolutionary attorneys, judges, and public servants committed to justice and community leadership. Today’s historic bar passage rate reflects not only academic excellence but the enduring legacy of a law center built to break barriers.
In July 2025, Southern University Law Center (SULC) achieved a historic milestone, posting a 75.28% first-time bar passage rate on the Louisiana Bar Examination, the highest in the school’s history. This record-setting performance places SULC ahead of Tulane Law School and marks a defining moment among Louisiana’s four accredited law institutions. The achievement also satisfies the American Bar Association’s Standard 316, which requires law schools to maintain a two-year bar passage rate of at least 75% to remain in good standing. “Southern University is one of only six or seven HBCUs with a law school, and it’s building amazing judicial leaders,” said Brandon Lett, a junior majoring in Mass Communication. “I love that for our campus.”
The July 2025 results reflect years of strategic investment in academic support, bar prep resources, and student mentorship. Faculty and staff have emphasized the importance of early intervention, personalized study plans, and mock exams to help students build confidence and competence. “This isn’t just a win for SULC, it’s a win for every student who believed in their potential and every faculty member who invested in their success,” said Chancellor John K. Pierre.
For many students, this milestone represents more than academic achievement; it’s a testament to resilience, community, and the enduring impact of historically Black institutions in shaping legal excellence. “It makes me even more proud to be at an HBCU Law School,” said Kailey Glass, a Spring ’25 Southern University alum. “A lot of times people try to count us out, but SULC continues to prove them wrong.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2025 for setting a new standard and proving that with preparation, perseverance, and purpose, greatness is within reach. This achievement belongs to every student, faculty member, and supporter who believed in the power of SULC. The future of law is brighter because of you.
