Cooley Law School student Courtney Hutchins receives a $5,000 scholarship from the Floyd Skinner Bar Association on Oct. 22, 2026.
On Oct. 22, Cooley Law School student Courtney Hutchins was awarded a $5,000 scholarship from the Floyd Skinner Bar Association.
Named in honor of Floyd Skinner, a Grand Rapids attorney and civil rights leader, FSBA focuses on creating a professional community for Black legal practitioners, including mentorship, networking, and supporting younger attorneys and law students.
Hutchins, who received her bachelor’s degree and Master of Science in administration from Central Michigan University, was nominated for the scholarship by Cooley Law School Associate Dean of Experiential Learning and Practice Tracey Brame.
“Courtney stood out in my Criminal Law class and showed that she is truly curious and tenacious,” said Brame. “She was always prepared for class and made consistently thoughtful contributions to the class discussion. Her performance in law school so far reflects her diligence and intellect.
“When I asked my students what led them to law school, Courtney responded:
‘I’m a lifelong learner and my professional journey put me on the path to pursue legal education. I work full time as a regulatory compliance specialist at Volkswagen Financial Services. I greatly enjoy what I do and want to expand my career opportunities in the legal field. Additionally, and maybe even more importantly, I am seeking community with thinkers. I enjoy engaging with individuals who are curious, tenacious, and who challenge my perspective.’”
The Floyd H. Skinner Scholarship is awarded to African-American students who have been accepted, or currently enrolled and attending law school full time. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic achievement, demonstrated leadership ability, commitment to civil rights, ties to the greater Grand Rapids area, and financial need.
Named in honor of Floyd Skinner, a Grand Rapids attorney and civil rights leader, FSBA focuses on creating a professional community for Black legal practitioners, including mentorship, networking, and supporting younger attorneys and law students.
Hutchins, who received her bachelor’s degree and Master of Science in administration from Central Michigan University, was nominated for the scholarship by Cooley Law School Associate Dean of Experiential Learning and Practice Tracey Brame.
“Courtney stood out in my Criminal Law class and showed that she is truly curious and tenacious,” said Brame. “She was always prepared for class and made consistently thoughtful contributions to the class discussion. Her performance in law school so far reflects her diligence and intellect.
“When I asked my students what led them to law school, Courtney responded:
‘I’m a lifelong learner and my professional journey put me on the path to pursue legal education. I work full time as a regulatory compliance specialist at Volkswagen Financial Services. I greatly enjoy what I do and want to expand my career opportunities in the legal field. Additionally, and maybe even more importantly, I am seeking community with thinkers. I enjoy engaging with individuals who are curious, tenacious, and who challenge my perspective.’”
The Floyd H. Skinner Scholarship is awarded to African-American students who have been accepted, or currently enrolled and attending law school full time. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic achievement, demonstrated leadership ability, commitment to civil rights, ties to the greater Grand Rapids area, and financial need.
