Our Story

FOSTERING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY

The inspiration for More Than Esquires Network (MTEN) was borne out of countless conversations with lawyers and JDs that have exciting new careers, ventures or businesses with no opportunity to network with their peers who have similar backgrounds. Through educational and social events, digital resources and up-to-date information, members gain the knowledge and connections they need to be successful beyond the practice of law.

THE NAME

The name, More Than Esquires, was inspired by the idea that as a community we are more than lawyers and JDs, in fact “Esquire” is just the beginning. In addition to being lawyers, we are writers, educators, philanthropists, startup founders, technologists, entrepreneurs, and the list goes on. As a network of professionals with varied interests, we are more than esquires.

OUR MISSION

To help JDs and lawyers navigate their careers through connection, education and accountability by achieving personal and professional growth.

OUR VISION

We are on a mission to create a community dedicated to assisting JDs & lawyers by guiding them in a compelling direction to gain more from their law degree than ever imagined.

OUR VALUES

COMMITMENT

To collaborate, communicate and gain accountability within the community

EMPOWERMENT

To support and connect with others in the process of change and growth

CULTIVATION

To build meaningful relationships within a space of respect, shared experiences and interests

INNOVATION

To nurture creativity and ideas in the path of realization and advancement

OUR FOUNDERS

Blessed Dele-Michael and Nneka Norville founded MTEN out of their own desire to join a community of lawyers that wanted more from their careers. Friends for over eighteen years, MTEN is their commitment to creating a long lasting community dedicated to helping fellow lawyers.

BLESSED DELE-MICHAEL, ESQ.
CO-FOUNDER
Blessed is a graduate of Rutgers Law School and New York University. She has experience in insurance defense, securities litigation and regulatory/government internal investigations. After leaving litigation, she successfully transitioned into regulatory compliance in working as Compliance Officer for a global investment bank and financial services company respectively. Now, Blessed switched from the financial sector to media/entertainment in serving as Head of Compliance for a global entertainment company.
NNEKA NORVILLE, ESQ.
CO-FOUNDER
Nneka is a graduate of Brooklyn Law School, Baruch School of Public Affairs and Boston University where she practiced entertainment law before pivoting into a rewarding career at the intersection of social impact and business. Previously, Nneka served as Head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & CSR Communications for a global media company. Recently, she worked for a global tech company in Corporate Communications and now is Senior Director, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Lead for a global sporting goods company.

IN THE KNOW

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