Influential Woman · Legal
Jeanelle Christina Angus
JD Candidate, Class of 2026, 3L, Founder and President of Lawyers With Melanin, Inc
Concord, NH 03301
Her Story
About Jeanelle
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.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jeanelle
01What 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.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to stay true to who I am, approach failure and rejection as opportunities to learn, and trust in the Lord’s guidance. Having come this far through faith and perseverance, I remain confident in the direction ahead.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to a young woman entering the legal field is this: you are enough, and you belong here—without question. This path is not meant to be easy; if it were, everyone would take it. Your presence in this profession is proof of your resilience, discipline, and capability. Do not allow anyone to talk down to you, diminish your voice, or make you doubt your worth. You have earned your place—stand in it.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the biggest challenges in my field are systemic racism and structural barriers that limit access and advancement for Black people. However, these challenges also present meaningful opportunities to educate, mentor, and invest in the next generation of legal professionals through targeted support, scholarships, and guidance that help young people to successfully navigate law school despite these obstacles.
05What 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.
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