Henry H. Tarrant Award for Black Student Excellence Recipients

The Henry H. Tarrant Award for Black Student Excellence is named in honor of the first known black graduate of Detroit Mercy Law.  Henry H. Tarrant graduated in 1922.

The award, established in partnership with Detroit Mercy Law’s Black Law Students Association (BLSA), recognizes incoming black law students for their achievements prior to law school and for their potential as future leaders, influencers, and activists, who will advance justice, equality, civil rights, and service.

Tijani holds a B.A. in Criminology from Western Ontario University. His decision to become a lawyer became clear after escaping the Sudanese civil war during a trip to see family in 2023. He hopes to use his law degree to help others with complex immigration matters, especially for those escaping high conflict zones.

Amir holds a B.S. in Psychology from Wayne State University. He was inspired to pursue a law degree to help other Black people across the globe achieve safety and human rights. As the son of Sudanese immigrants, he is particularly interested in pursuing international law. Read Amir's feature in the Legal News.

Gregory holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Campbell University. His experience includes service in the military and with law enforcement. He hopes to use his law degree to advance the rights of Black people in the criminal justice system and to inspire his children.

Briana holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice & Sociology from Oakland University. She served as captain of the track team while at Oakland University. She is inspired by her parents' hard work and hopes to use her law degree to make a difference in the Black community.

Andre holds a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Michigan-Flint. He plans to utilize his psychology degree in his future law practice as a defense attorney working with youth. He wants his legal career to be a message to the young Black community that they can achieve great things.

Zahara holds a B.A. in English from University of Michigan Dearborn. She has experience working as a police officer in the Detroit Police Department where she received the 2021 Women in Blue Officer of the Year and was awarded the Spirit of Detroit Award from the Detroit City Council. Zahara looks forward to continuing her commitment to the city of Detroit and it's residents. Read Zahara's feature in the Legal News.

Analise holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice with a minor in Spanish from Grand Valley State University. She hopes to be able to use her law degree to bring justice to those who have been wronged. Analise has been inspired to pursue the law because of many influential figures and hopes she can be influential to others in the future. Read Analise's feature in the Legal News.

Stephanie holds a B.S. in Psychology from Howard University. Prior to pursuing law school, Stephanie held a position with the U.S. Federal Government. She is a Detroit native and is excited to bring her skills to advocate for others in the city. Read Stephanie's feature in the Legal News.