HOUSTON – The National Diversity Council will host a Top 50 General Counsel dinner featuring former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder for Legal Diversity Week. Houston Community College (HCC) General Counsel E. Ashley Smith and Deputy General Counsel Y. Nicole Montgomery were recognized in Houston at the Marriott Marquis.
E. Ashley Smith graduated from Lamar High School and the University of Texas at Austin Undergraduate and Law Schools. He has also received a Masters of Law from the University of Houston and Master of Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas.
Edgar Ashley Smith
In 1981, Smith began his 14-year political career when he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives, where he chaired numerous committees on higher education, financial institutions, insurance budget & oversight, governmental organizations and science & technology.
Smith accepted the next challenge in 2014 returning to the education field to assist Dr. Cesar Maldonado, Chancellor of Houston Community College—where Smith works today as General Counsel.
“It is a privilege and honor to serve as General Counsel to Houston Community College” said Smith. “Our office serves in one of the most diverse cities in the United States, and this recognition is a tribute to the great work our college and community do together.”
Nicole Montgomery is the Deputy General Counsel with Houston Community College. Montgomery is the former General Counsel of YES Prep Public Schools, where she managed all legal aspects of the high performing open enrollment charter school district. Prior to joining the YES Prep team, Montgomery was Senior Counsel of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO).
“When I look over my career, I am incredibly grateful for the many people who opened doors that provided opportunities for me,” said Montgomery. “These individuals valued the out-of-the-box thinking, innovation, and creative problem solving that is a byproduct of diverse cultural perspectives and skill-sets. I’m excited to work for Houston Community College, which appreciates the importance of a diverse workforce and student population, while impacting local communities and Houston area businesses.”
Montgomery earned her law degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law on the campus of Texas Southern University, her Master in Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Business from Hendrix College, Arkansas.
The 2019 Top 50 General Counsel Award is based on the following criteria.
Must be a General Counsel, Chief Legal Officer, Vice President or Associate General Counsel
Demonstrates achievements across the full spectrum of in-house responsibility
Performs above and beyond the usual requirements of his or her professional capability
Shows commitment to diversity and community well-being
Displays high integrity and ethical behavior
Search our archive of past issues Receive our Latest Updates
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
