(May 21, 2024 ) The inaugural Lambda Epsilon Chi (LEX) Induction Ceremony was a celebration of dedication, integrity, and the bright future of the legal profession. As part of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE), this virtual event reverberated with a sense of achievement and anticipation, welcoming its newest inductees from across the nation into the esteemed fold of the National Paralegal and Legal Studies Honor Society.
As the ceremony commenced, the digital platform buzzed with excitement. Past AAfPE President Toni Marsh, a stalwart in paralegal education and the moderator of the event, greeted the attendees. Marsh, whose tenure as president has left an indelible mark on the organization, set the tone with her effusive welcome, highlighting the geographic diversity of the attendees. "I'm looking in the chat and I see people here from New Orleans, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Alabama, Chicago, Georgia, St. Louis, Rockville, Maryland, Washington DC, California, Dallas, Texas, Baltimore, Maryland. This is so exciting," she enthused, capturing the collective exhilaration.
Marsh, national director of the Lambda Epsilon Chi Honor Society and the director of the George Washington University Paralegal Studies Program, emphasized the magnitude of this achievement. "Welcome, welcome, welcome and congratulations. I bet you've been hearing that word a lot over the past few weeks, but that's okay. You can never hear it too many times. You've done a fabulous job, and we are all so proud of you," she proclaimed, encapsulating the spirit of the ceremony.
Page Beetem, the current AAfPE President, addressing the inductees from Cincinnati, underscored the mission of AAfPE and the pivotal role the organization plays in shaping the future of legal education. "AAfPE is dedicated to the advancement of paralegal education. We ensure that the legal professionals of tomorrow, you, are well equipped with the knowledge and the skills that they need to serve our community effectively," she articulated. Beetem's words resonated deeply, reminding the inductees of their critical role in upholding the standards and integrity of the legal profession.
Following Beetem, Chris Simcox, the President-Elect of AAfPE, offered a compelling discourse on the importance of balance. Simcox, an attorney and professor, provided sage advice, urging the new members to strive for equilibrium in their professional and personal lives. "Find balance between professional achievement and the joy and enrichment that comes from pursuing other passions. Make time for doing things that give you pleasure, whether they're cultural, physical, or intellectual. Make time for your family, your friendships, and quiet reflection with yourself," she advised, infusing her speech with a blend of wisdom and empathy.
As the ceremony progressed, the inductees were reminded of the symbols of LEX. Marsh elaborated on the significance of the LEX certificate, pin, and honor cords. These symbols, she explained, represent a contract of excellence and a mantle of responsibility. "You have been given so much. You have been given the gifts of intelligence, the work ethic to use that intelligence, and an excellent education. We do expect in return that you will lead the profession and model paralegal excellence," she stated, her words echoing the gravity of their new responsibilities.
The ceremony culminated with the administration of the LEX oath, a solemn pledge to uphold the principles of scholarship, leadership, and integrity. With right hands raised, either on camera or in the privacy of their homes, the inductees recited the pledge, formally marking their entry into the esteemed society.
In a heartfelt gesture, Marsh invited attendees to share their reflections. Voices from across the country expressed gratitude and pride, underscoring the transformative impact of their educational journeys. One notable voice was that of Arsida, an inductee from Albania, who shared her experience of overcoming language barriers and excelling in her studies. "The professors were very supportive and made me feel more confident, which helped me finish with good grades and be very passionate about this paralegal field," she reflected, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence that LEX champions.
For those who were unable to attend or wish to relive the inspiring event, a recording of the ceremony is available here: https://youtu.be/kMixVcSBLx4?feature=shared.
Mark your calendars for next year's event, planned for the third Tuesday in May at 5 PM Eastern. You can add it to your calendar now at this link: Google Calendar Event.
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