Historic milestone: Anthony Vaughn set to become first Black man to lead Brooklyn Bar Association

May 9, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Anthony Vaughn Jr. was officially elected by the Brooklyn Bar Association to be its next president. Vaughn will be installed during a ceremony at the Eastern District of New York’s courthouse in Downtown Brooklyn on June 6. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Robert Abruzzese

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More than 77 years after Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier by donning a Brooklyn Dodgers jersey, the Brooklyn Bar Association (BBA) is set to make its own historical stride by inducting Anthony Vaughn Jr. as its first Black male president.

Vaughn’s presidency follows the impactful tenures of Lynn Terrelonge, the first Black president of the BBA, who provided steadfast leadership during the challenging times of 9/11, and Armena Gayle, who presided over the association’s 150th anniversary. As the third Black leader of the BBA, Vaughn continues this legacy of groundbreaking leadership and dedication to progress within the Brooklyn legal community.

Anthony Vaughn Jr. poses with Armena Gayle, who was the BBA’s second Black president in its history. Vaughn will become the first Black male to ever hold the position. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Robert Abruzzese

Vaughn will be installed as the first Black male president of the Brooklyn Bar Association (BBA) on June 6 during a ceremony at the Eastern District of New York courthouse.

Vaughn, who has served in various capacities within the BBA since his initial membership, is set to advance the association’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. Known for his proactive approach to leadership, Vaughn has been instrumental in making the BBA more accessible and relevant to both the legal community and the broader public.

Lynn Terrelonge, who served as the BBA president during 9/11 and helped to rally the legal community during a dark time, was the association's first Black president. She died on Feb. 3, 2002. Photo courtesy of the Brooklyn Bar Association — Lynn Terrelonge, who served as the BBA president during 9/11 and helped to rally the legal community during a dark time, was the association’s first Black president. She died on Feb. 3, 2002. Photo courtesy of the Brooklyn Bar Association

“The doors are not closed at this bar association. These doors are open, and they’re always open,” Vaughn remarked to the Brooklyn Eagle in 2019 when he first became a BBA officer. Vaughn has made it his mission to demystify the legal profession and encourage participation from all corners of the community.

His presidency follows a distinguished line of predecessors and comes at a time when the BBA is expanding its outreach and programming. Under his leadership, the BBA’s Membership Committee, which he co-chairs with Pamela Walker, has become one of the most active arms of the organization. Vaughn has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including educational sit-downs with judges, continuing legal education (CLE) sessions, and networking events, which have significantly contributed to the growth and vibrancy of the association.

Vaugh’s own legal career is marked by a broad range of experience, primarily focusing on insurance defense, professional liability, and commercial work. His commitment to public service is evident in his efforts to bridge the gap between the legal profession and community needs, such as organizing volunteer events at local soup kitchens and shelters.

The significance of Vaughn’s presidency extends beyond his racial and professional identity; it is a testament to his profound impact on the BBA and the broader legal landscape in Brooklyn. His leadership style and dedication to community outreach are expected to resonate deeply, setting a precedent for future leaders and strengthening the role of the BBA in advocating for justice and equality in the legal profession.