Jeanelle Angus
Jeanelle A. is a law student, nonprofit founder, and national advocate committed to increasing equity and representation within the legal profession. She currently serves as a Law Student Liaison Officer with the American Bar Association Center for Human Rights while completing her Juris Doctor at UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law, where she focuses on intellectual property and related areas of law that have personally shaped her journey. As a first-generation law student, Jeanelle has distinguished herself through leadership, resilience, and service, participating in prestigious ABA programs, student advocacy organizations, and hands-on trial experience as co-counsel for plaintiffs.
In 2022, Jeanelle founded Lawyers With Melanin,® Inc., a Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to increasing diversity in the legal field through mentorship, scholarships, and community support for aspiring lawyers and attorneys of color. Under her leadership, the organization has grown into a powerful platform for encouragement, representation, and impact—mobilizing support not only for law students, but also for broader humanitarian efforts. Her work reflects a deep belief that access, advocacy, and visibility are essential to building a more just legal system.
In addition to her legal and nonprofit work, Jeanelle is a published author, speaker, and consultant. Her book, Unveiling Strength and Faith: The Diary of a Black Christian Female Law Student, blends personal narrative with inspiration for those navigating law school and life against the odds. Through her consulting firm, The J Angus Effect, she continues to empower individuals and communities through leadership development, financial literacy, and motivational speaking. Grounded in faith, service, and purpose, Jeanelle’s mission is clear: to create pathways where others can rise, lead, and claim their seat at the table.
• Applied Legal Research: Corporate/M&A Certificate
• Applied Legal Research: Bankruptcy Certificate
• Applied Legal Research: Administrative Law Certificate
• Applied Legal Research: Statutory Law Certificate
• Applied Legal Research: Case Law Certificate
• Applied Legal Research: Secondary Sources Certificate
• CPR Certified
• Home Health Aid Certified
• Certified Nursing Assistant
• UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law- J.D.
• Ohio Northern University—Claude W. Pettit College of Law- J.D.
• Northeastern University- M.P.A.
• Florida Atlantic University- B.A.
• Palm Beach State College- Associate's
• South University- B.S.
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Graduate Fellow
• Dean's List
• Magna Cum Laude
• Ethics Bowl winner
• Phi Theta Kappa
• Psi Beta: National Honor Society
• Graduate Students of Color Collective
• Community Servings
• American Cancer Society
• Alzheimer's Association®
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my drive to mentor, guide, and lead fellow Black students in navigating the process of applying to and succeeding in law school.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the biggest challenges in my field are systemic racism, but there is significant opportunity to educate, mentor, and provide scholarships and support to help young people navigate law school despite these barriers.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are showing up, speaking out, and making a difference—especially helping others avoid the challenges I faced as a Black woman starting law school. Personally, I value adventure, learning, and growth, whether it’s traveling, exploring new cultures, hiking, mountain biking, writing, motivational speaking, or training for a Body Fitness competition.