For Ashrakat Hassan, joining the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) at WashU Law wasn’t just about community, but finding a space to be her full self. Hassan is a 2L student who now leads the BLSA as president, working to ensure every Black law student feels supported, empowered, and heard. She’s built her presidency around three goals: fellowship, outreach, and advocacy — all of which helped the BLSA earn national recognition as the 2025 Midwest Chapter of the Year.
“Intentionality is what sets us apart,” Hassan explains. “Every initiative we pursue is about creating meaningful spaces for our members, strengthening our connection to St. Louis, and ensuring future generations of Black law students have the support they need.”
Hassan is no stranger to student leadership, having served as student body president during her undergrad years. Getting involved with BLSA, however, reshaped her perspective on what it means to lead with passion, purpose, and responsibility. It has challenged her to grow both personally and professionally, but the challenge has proven to be well worth it for Hassan and her fellow members.
“BLSA operates on a much smaller scale, but it’s fueled by passion and interest,” Hassan says. “The people on my board genuinely want to be there. Although passion without purpose can sometimes be a detriment, it makes every decision feel more meaningful. There’s a purpose behind it. BLSA has taught me that I can trust and delegate to the people around me, that I can give and receive grace, and that we can do so much more together.”
Ashrakat is also deeply aware of the unique challenges Black law students face today, particularly around access. At WashU Law, she’s met brilliant students from around the world, but she’s seen those same students struggle to find the information and support they need to succeed — especially in the wake of recent cuts to federal pipeline programs that get Black students in the door. These cuts make BLSA’s work more timely than ever.
“Relationships matter,” Hassan emphasizes. “A connection or referral is often the difference between an offer and a non-offer. And if these programs are going away, we will build those bridges ourselves. We are investing in our network and building an ever-growing list of alumni, professionals and organizations who can help our members navigate their career paths.”
Reflecting on her time at WashU Law, Hassan summarizes the school’s greatest strength in a single word: community. Between the University, the law school, and BLSA, Hassan has found a place where she is supported and empowered to make a difference for herself and others.
“The people I go to school with are some of the most passionate, meticulous, and friendly individuals I have ever met,” Hassan says. “And from day one, they’ve had my back. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to attend WashU Law, serve BLSA, and pour back into a community that has already given me more than I could have ever imagined.”
