Black History Month in 2025 marks the 49th anniversary of the annual month-long observance of the history, culture, achievements, and contributions of African Americans and the African diaspora. In 1975, President Gerald Ford was the first U.S. President to commemorate the celebration of Black History Month. “In 1986 Congress passed Public Law 99-244 (PDF, 142KB) which designated February 1986 as "National Black (Afro-American) History Month.” This law noted that February 1, 1986 would “mark the beginning of the sixtieth annual public and private salute to Black History.” The law further directed the President to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe February 1986 as Black History Month with the appropriate ceremonies and activities.” Every president since then has issued a proclamation calling on the public to observe the month.
To celebrate, the Law Center hosted the 2025 Dean’s Distinguished Black History Month Lecture earlier this month, featuring Dr. Ruth J. Simmons, a trailblazing leader who made history in her appointments as president of Brown University, Prairie View A&M University and Smith College. Now a President’s Distinguished Fellow at Rice University, she delivered a talk titled “Race and Racism: Reconciling the Past with the Present.” The event concluded with a reception and a book signing for her recently published memoir “Up Home.”
The predecessor to Black History Month dates back to February of 1926, and was observed during a week in February. It was established by Carter G. Woodson, often referred to as the "Father of Black History.” Woodson was a well-recognized scholar who was the Dean of Howard University, College of Arts and Sciences, the Academic Dean of the school now known as West Virginia State University, and an author.
Among many of Woodson’s memorable quotes throughout his life, I find the words, “no man knows what he can do until he tries,” is a particularly poignant and enduring concept. While much has changed since Woodson passed away in 1950, his remarks foreshadowed the forthcoming Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s and can apply to all people today.
Through advocacy and litigation strategies, African American lawyers and leaders opened the legal profession to people of all backgrounds. Today, I believe it is an extraordinarily helpful exercise for aspiring attorneys to look to the trailblazers who came before them. At the University of Houston Law Center, James “Jim” Lemond made history in 1970 as the school’s first African American graduate. In the decades since his graduation, he has become one of the most accomplished and well-known attorneys in the Houston area.
Jim Lemond ‘70
Lemond’s unwavering dedication to the legal profession and his broad experience across diverse legal sectors have forged a truly remarkable career that few can rival. From serving as a U.S. Army Judge Advocate General to practicing in BigLaw, at ExxonMobil, in private practice, and with various City of Houston and Harris County entities, Lemond has consistently exemplified the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.
Lemond’s contributions extend beyond the courtroom. He has held key roles with the Harris County Housing Authority, the Harris County–Houston Sports Authority, and the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County. He was also a trusted associate of influential Houston leaders, including former mayor Jim McConn and Harris County Commissioner El Franco Lee.
Beyond his impressive credentials, Lemond’s enthusiasm for the legal profession has been a constant source of inspiration. His distinguished career serves as a powerful example of the transformative power of legal education. As Dean of the University of Houston Law Center, during this Black History Month, I am proud to celebrate Lemond’s trailblazing journey and deeply value the strong bond he has maintained with his alma mater.
Lemond’s impact resonates across generations. Law Center graduates consistently express their admiration for him, including many who were not yet born during his time as a law student; they recognize him as a pioneer who opened doors paving the way for their future success. Lemond’s career is a testament to the enduring influence of a life dedicated to the law.
To echo Woodson’s quote, Lemond dared to test his potential. He found that with a legal education his capabilities were limitless. This Black History Month, I believe it is important to celebrate those who broke down barriers to inspire future generations of lawyers and leaders to do the same.
Please take a moment to click through the slideshow to see other African American UH Law Center graduates, law faculty, and administrators who have made a significant impact while at the Law Center, in the world of academia, the legal profession, and society.
Leonard M. Baynes
Dean, Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen Distinguished Chair, and Professor of Law
University of Houston Law Center
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