For Appalachian School of Law alumna De’Empress Graves, the journey from law student to military attorney, entrepreneur, and educator has been defined by service, leadership, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities.
After recently concluding her chapter with the United States Air Force, Graves is beginning an exciting new phase of her career—one that combines her passion for education, community service, and helping others succeed.
Graves attended Appalachian School of Law from August 2019 through December 2021, where she quickly established herself as a leader among her peers.
She served as President of the Black Law Students Association, where she organized the first Thurgood Marshall Competition at ASL. She also served as Chief Justice of the Student Bar Association and was honored with the Professor Thomas Blackwell Award in recognition of her contributions to the law school community.
Her time at ASL helped lay the foundation for a career built on leadership and service.
Following law school, Graves was stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, where she held several positions throughout her military career.
She ultimately served as Chief of Civil Law and as a Subject Matter Expert in Special Education Advocacy. Her responsibilities also included work in Military Justice, providing her with experience comparable to civilian criminal law practice.
The variety of assignments allowed her to develop skills across multiple areas of the law while instilling the discipline and adaptability that continue to guide her professional life.
“My military experience significantly shaped my development as an attorney,” Graves said. “My dual responsibilities in Civil Law and Military Justice allowed me to become proficient across multiple legal areas through extensive practice.”
Describing herself as a “jack of all trades” with backgrounds in law, marketing, and supply chains, Graves has always been driven by a desire to make a difference.
That desire led her to establish Briefcase and Billboards, a consulting business focused on providing small businesses with affordable, high-quality services.
Her entrepreneurial spirit is matched by a commitment to education and mentorship.
“Education has played a pivotal role in my life, as I benefited from the guidance of others during my formative years,” she said.
Today, she continues that tradition by helping prepare and inspire the next generation through higher education.
Reflecting on her own journey, Graves encourages current law students to remain open to opportunities and trust the process.
“Keep an open mind regarding various legal fields,” she said. “It is important to recognize that one may not immediately secure a position in their desired area of law. Just grow where you are planted and a door will open with your name on it.”
Her career serves as a reminder that success does not always follow a straight line. From student leader to military attorney, entrepreneur, and educator, De’Empress Graves has embraced every opportunity to serve others and lead with purpose.
Appalachian School of Law is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of De’Empress Graves and looks forward to the impact she will continue to make in the legal profession, the classroom, and the communities she serves.
