Paving the Way in Law and Community Leadership
Western State College of Law has cultivated many distinguished legal professionals; Tatianna Y. Metters Scurlock is no exception. A proud member of the Class of 2006, Tatianna has built an impressive career in law, serving as the President of the John M. Langston Bar Association and the Founder and Principal of the Law Offices of Tatianna Y. Metters, APC, a Probate, Wills, Trust, Conservatorship, Estate Planning law office. Her journey is a testament to her dedication to justice, mentorship, and community service.
The Path to Leadership: A Commitment to Giving Back
Tatianna became involved with the John M. Langston Bar Association after attending a small firm symposium hosted by the association. She describes the experience as transformative, having discovered a group of like-minded professionals who support each other. “I realized I was not alone. I was so motivated that I knew then that I wanted to one day be in the same position to offer my experience, insight, and support to other small practitioners,” Tatianna said.
Eventually, she was invited to serve on the board by past President Felton Newell. Since then, she has been committed to leadership as a means to give back to the organization. She recalled, “Leadership is my turn to give back to an institution that has supported and nurtured me, and it’s my time to focus my energies on propelling this organization forward and its legacy.”
Honoring Excellence and Supporting Future Lawyers
Tatianna Metters Scurlock was officially named the 2025 President of the John M. Langston Bar Association. The honor was announced at the Installation and Awards Gala on February 21. This event featured esteemed honorees, including the Honorable Judge Lynne M. Hobbs of the Los Angeles Superior Court and Colin Kaepernick. “I’ve known Judge Hobbs since I was a younger lawyer and consider her a mentor,” Tatianna says. “She [Hobbs] has a record of commitment to uplifting our profession and community.” The Honorable Judge Hobbs swore Tatianna in as President of the Langston Bar Association. She also spoke about Colin Kaepernick, stating, “Likewise, Colin is another professional who has been inspirational and dedicated, a leader who quietly gives back and leads the charge for justice.”
The Langston Bar Association is making a strong impact in the legal field by awarding $100,000 in scholarships this year. “Law school is hard and expensive,” Tatianna acknowledges. “We provide a safety net in a time where support for those who are less fortunate is uncertain and minimal. We firmly believe our community is richer with people with different voices and different backgrounds. Our scholarship helps those people join the legal profession.”
Western State College of Law: A Foundation for Success
Remembering her time at Western State College of Law, Tatianna says the school taught her perseverance and time management skills, both essential in her journey as a lawyer and now as a leader. “One of my fondest memories at Western State was my Trust and Estates professor’s ability to teach this subject in a way that helped me appreciate the importance of estate planning and it inspired me to work in this area of law. It also helped that I received one of the highest grades in this class,” she recalled. “My success at Western State gave me the capacity to know that I can rise through any challenges,” Tatianna stated. “Being president is a challenge in this day and age. It is also a privilege and honor to lead in the charge in educating, enriching, and elevating our community.”
Reflecting on the lasting relationships she built at Western State, Tatianna remarked, “I have lifelong friends from Western State, and I appreciated the support of faculty who inspired me professionally and personally.”
Giving Back in Times of Crisis
Beyond her legal and leadership roles, Tatianna Metters Scurlock is committed to supporting communities in need. Recently, she and the Langston Bar Association have been involved in relief efforts to help those affected by the wildfires. “We’ve been in the trenches, offering legal services, clinical advice, and organizing drives for those who are unfortunately suffering due to the LA wildfires,” she explained. “We have decided that a portion of our gala proceeds will be going towards our efforts and supporting those who have suffered so much devastation.”
The Langston Bar Association has also partnered with Ralph Lauren Beverly Hills to raise funds for their law student scholarships as well as their fire relief initiatives. A portion of the purchases made between February 6th and 9th went toward supporting these relief efforts.
Words of Wisdom for Future Legal Professionals
For current Western State students who are interested in following a similar path to leadership, Tatianna advises, “You don’t know how your journey will unfold, so every step you take, enjoy it and put your best foot forward. You will see your landscape improve exponentially with every step.”
She emphasizes that perseverance, adaptability, and embracing challenges are essential for growth. Tatianna encourages students to build strong networks, find mentors, and take advantage of every learning experience, both in and out of the classroom. She believes dedication and resilience will play a substantial role in their success in law.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
Tatianna Metters Scurlock exemplifies the values of excellence, resilience, and service that are central to Western State. Her journey from law school graduate to bar association president highlights the power of legal education, community support, and a drive to uplift others. As she steps into her new leadership role, she continues to inspire, mentor, and pave the way for future legal professionals. Western State is proud to call Tatianna one of its own.
Credit for photos of Tatianna Metters Scurlock taken at the Installation and Awards Gala: Jarrod William.