Thomas A. Warnock
Why was receiving the HBAPA-LEF Scholarship Important to you?
In 1998, I moved from Miami FL to Philadelphia for law school. I brought with me a couple of sweaters and a wind breaker. I was told if I dressed in layers the cold would not be a problem…that was a lie. I was doing well in law school but I felt down and out - I was cold, I felt alone, like I did not have a friend in the world. Then, I received a HBALEF scholarship for $600. I went to Boyds and I bought a $600 leather jacket. Because of the scholarship I felt warm; I no longer felt alone; I felt empowered. Of course it wasn’t the leather jacket that made me feel this way; it was the people that supported the HBALEF and me and the shared purpose of the HBA family that made me feel that way.
What year did you receive the scholarship?
1999
What law school did you attend?
Temple University Beasley School of Law
How did you use your scholarship money?
On a leather jacket
Where has your career taken you and what are you up to now?
I started my career as an associate in the Commercial Litigation group at White and Williams LLP. After a few years at the firm I joined DuPont to manage litigation for the company and later transitioned to being a trusted business advisor. For the last couple of years, I have been an Associate General Counsel, Corporate Affairs for Corteva Agriscience where I lead the litigation, merger and acquisitions, labor & employment, environmental law and legal operations for the company.
Are you still involved with the HBAPA or LEF?
Yes. I am an advisory board member of the HBAPA and try to attend as many events and meetings as I can including the HBALEF reception.