Black History First Honorees Special Newsletter

Black History

Honoring Our Trailblazer Law Firm Team Members

As we honor Black History Month, we recognize it as a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate the contributions that continue to shape our nation.

Black history is not only found in textbooks, it is made every day by resilient, brilliant individuals who lead, build, and uplift our communities.

Black history lives in our resilience, shines through our excellence, and grows through our commitment to one another.

The Firsts Within Our Legacy

Have You Heard?

The Legacy of Jeraldine Williams, journalist, lawyer and FAMU First Lady

This Black History Month, we honor Atty. Jeraldine Williams a woman whose life and work transformed history into lived experience. From being one of just 14 Black students to integrate the University of Florida during the Civil Rights Movement, to becoming the first Black woman in the nation to win the Hearst Journalism Award, her resilience and courage paved the way for so many.

Jeraldine didn’t stop at journalism she became an attorney, a medical advocate for Floridians, and later served as First Lady of Florida A&M University, the HBCU she once dreamed of attending.

Her story reminds us that making history is not just about fame it’s about breaking barriers, lifting voices, and leaving behind a legacy that lasts.

“I wanted to leave a lasting contribution. And I think this is lasting.” — Jeraldine Williams

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Have You Heard?

A Legacy of Leadership:
Salesia V. Smith‑Gordon’s Trailblazing Journey

Salesia V. Smith‑Gordon, Esq., is not just an accomplished attorney, she is a trailblazer whose pioneering achievements continue to break barriers and open doors for future generations. Her journey is one of leadership, philanthropy, and historic firsts in law and civic service.

Salesia’s Historic “Firsts” Include:

First Black alumna of Florida State University College of Law to make a $200,000 endowed gift supporting scholarships and cultural diversity programs.
First Black law alumna honored with a portrait in the FSU Law Rotunda’s Wall of Distinction.
Part of the first mother‑daughter duo to graduate from FSU College of Law alongside her mother, Jeraldine Williams.
First African American female to serve on the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics.
First Black female Chair of the Palm Beach County Ethics Commission and Inspector General’s Committee.

Growing up, Salesia has consistently paved the way for others. Through her legal advocacy, leadership roles, and intentional acts of philanthropy, she has created meaningful opportunities for aspiring lawyers and community members alike.

Salesia's legacy is a shining example of excellence, service, and empowerment.

Have You Heard?

Pioneering Leadership: Honoring the Firsts of Lawrence Gordon

Hon. Lawrence Gordon was recently re-elected without opposition for the last sixth (6th) election as Councilman for The Town of Haverhill, serving 16 years as Vice Mayor and councilman. Lawrence retains his position as Vice Mayor, Town of Haverhill, Florida. Lawrence was the first 1st Black elected to serve on the council in the history of the Town's charter.

Growing up in segregated Greenville, Mississippi, Lawrence has broken many barriers being the 1st in several positions including:

1st Black in Allstate Insurance Company's public relation division south of the Mason Dixon line in the mid 1970s.
1st Black non-lawyer to serve on the Board of Directors of the Palm Beach County Justice Association.

Mindful, kind, conscientious, the Jackson State double alumnus, Lawrence Gordon is philanthropic, to his alma mater for the enhancement of opportunities of high school students form Greenville, MS to succeed at Jackson State. His intentional acts of philanthropy, community and civic services have successfully opened doors for many to succeed from children to adults.

We are proud to give honor to the Black history makers of our law firm team. We salute our Mediation Consultant, Lawrence Gordon, trailblazer.

Black History Month

Lunch & Learn Series

At the Law Office of Salesia V. Smith-Gordon, Black History Month is more than just a time for reflection—it is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the depth and richness of Black culture, history, and heritage. It is a time to honor the sacrifices, achievements, and contributions of those who paved the way for future generations while embracing the traditions that continue to shape communities today.

This February, the team has come together to host an inspiring Lunch & Learn Series, transforming mealtime into a space for education, connection, and cultural appreciation. Each week, team members take turns sharing signature dishes that reflect their African, Caribbean, and African American heritage, bringing forward not only flavors but also the stories, history, and significance behind each meal. Through these experiences, they are fostering a deeper appreciation for their roots while recognizing the resilience and impact of Black individuals throughout history.

Honoring Attorney Jeraldine Williams: A Trailblazer in Journalism and Law

The Law Office of Salesia Smith-Gordon proudly celebrates our Special Legal Counsel, Attorney Jeraldine Williams, Esq., for her historic achievements. On January 16, 2023, the University of Florida honored her with two murals, recognizing her impact as a journalist and legal professional.

Attorney Williams was among the first 14 Black students to integrate UF’s undergraduate colleges in the 1960s. As UF’s first Black journalism alumna, she made history by winning the Randolph Hearst National Award in 1967—the first Black journalist in the U.S. to do so. She was later inducted into the UF School of Journalism Hall of Fame.

Her recognition is a testament to her dedication and courage. Because of her, many have been inspired to break barriers. We honor Attorney Williams and her legacy of excellence in journalism, law, and advocacy.

Black Excellence on Ice:

Winter Olympics & Black History

First Black woman to win gold in an individual Winter Olympic

Erin Jackson made history as the first Black woman to win an individual speed skating gold when she claimed the 500m title at Beijing 2022.

A Gift from Salesia Smith-Gordon to SDCBWLA

Simidele Adeagbo was the first African woman and first Black female athlete to compete in the skeleton at the Winter Olympics, finishing 20th at PyeongChang 2018.

First Ghanaian skeleton athlete to compete at the Winter Olympics

Akwasi Frimpong was the first Ghanaian athlete to compete in skeleton when he took to the track at PyeongChang 2018.

First Black athlete to win a Winter Olympic gold medal

Vonetta Flowers 1^st Black person to win a gold medal at the Winter Olympic games in the two -woman bobsleigh (2022 Salt Lake City Game

Must Watch Video

FSU Law Hangs Smith-Gordon’s Portrait on Rotunda’s Wall of Distinction

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