Justice Locklear Turns Setback into Purpose, Preparing for Path Toward Law

Justice Locklear knows what it feels like to lose his footing.

Before graduating from UNC Pembroke with a degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing, before being accepted into Arizona State University's Pathway to Law for Tribal Citizens Initiative and before setting his sights on law school, Locklear had to rebuild the way he saw himself as a student.

Locklear struggled early in his college career and was suspended during his sophomore year. It could have been the end of his time at UNCP. Instead, it became the turning point.

“That moment changed how I saw myself and my education,” Locklear said. “When I came back to UNCP, I knew I had to move with more discipline, more purpose and a clearer vision for where I wanted to go.”

Locklear is one of the first Lumbee students accepted into Arizona State University's Pathway to Law for Tribal Citizens Initiative. The program is designed for members of federally recognized tribes who are interested in pursuing a legal education.

For Locklear, the opportunity is not simply about admission into a law pipeline. It is tied to family, community and generations of sacrifice.

Growing up in Prospect, Locklear watched men in his family work long hours in blue-collar jobs. They often reminded him that education could open another path. At UNCP, a business law course helped sharpen his interest in corporate law and gave him a clearer view of how he could use a legal education to serve the Lumbee people.

“This is more than just an opportunity for me to meet top law schools,” Locklear said. “It's proof that the blood, sweat and tears mean something.”
Locklear said his interest in law is rooted in the stories of Native people being harmed through contracts, loans, deeds and other legal matters that were not always explained or understood in their best interest. He wants to use his education to help others better navigate those systems.

“The fight is not physical in the modern world,” Locklear said. “It is fought with pen, paper and education.”

His growth has also been shaped by the Thomas College of Business and Economics' Passport to Professional Success program, which helps students strengthen their professional skills, build confidence and prepare for career opportunities.

John Dunlap, director of professionalism, internships and career preparation, said Locklear used the program as it was intended, especially as he worked to clarify his career path.
“Justice has thoughtfully considered what excellence looks like and is moving forward with confidence and intentionality,” Dunlap said.

Dunlap said he has been impressed by Locklear's engagement in networking and speaker events on campus and in the community, experiences that helped him build relationships and recognize new opportunities.

Through those experiences, Locklear began to see leadership differently. Leadership, he said, is service.

As he prepares for law school, Locklear said he is most proud of choosing to return with discipline and purpose. His advice to other students is rooted in what he had to learn for himself: education must be treated like the opportunity it is.

“Come to UNCP ready to change your mindset,” Locklear said. “The late nights, early mornings and tears shed will all be worth it.”