by Katherine Burnett
This week’s meeting was a unique one for the Pre-Law Society; the meeting was not only open to current members but also to everyone on campus! There was a reason for this unique approach–we had a unique speaker, Frank Figliuzzi, who is not only an attorney, but also an author and the former Assistant Director of the FBI.
After President Discon went through business updates for the Pre-Law Society members…
…it was time for Figliuzzi to speak. Mr. Figliuzzi wrote the national bestseller, The FBI Way: Inside the Bureau’s Code of Excellence, which he would be discussing with us!
Mr. Figliuzzi started his presentation with a quote by J. Edgar Hoover, “The most effective weapon against crime is cooperation… The efforts of all law enforcement agencies with the support and understanding of the American people.”
Next, he gave insight on his book’s origin, saying that the FBI was under attack, which made him angry and led him to write the book as a way to counter the incorrect assumptions being made. He then went in depth about what he says are the preserving values of the “FBI way,” otherwise called the “7 Cs.”
The first “C” is Code, which refers to the values and principles you stand by. The second is Conservancy, emphasizing the importance of being part of something larger than yourself. The third is Clarity, which involves clearly and honestly expressing your values.
The fourth is Consequences, meaning doing the right thing, even when it is difficult. The fifth is Compassion, which is about striving to understand others’ perspectives. The sixth is Credibility, with the reminder that “people won’t believe in your team if they don’t believe in you.” Lastly, the seventh is Consistency, which involves sticking to your code, no matter what.
He also introduced the term “undercover syndrome,” describing how officers who spend too much time undercover may begin to commit petty thefts and other crimes sloppily, with the subconscious desire to get caught by police. This act of self-sabotage is typically due to the complete subversion of morals and identity that comes along with undercover work. The FBI tries to anticipate this through providing mental health support to its agents and their families.
He finished his lecture with a word of advice to prospective law students: “start viewing yourself as a leader now.” As I looked around the room, I was sure that this advice was impactful to all.
After Mr. Figliuzzi’s presentation, the meeting continued with the cord ceremony for this semester’s graduating seniors. Making it more special, Mr. Figliuzzi corded the seniors while Ms. Loveall gave them their certificates.
These seniors included: Clay Barton, Natalie Bradford, Yajaira Gutierrez Marin, Mark Harkrider, Daniel Pierce, Emily Segovia, Mason Solomon, Grant Threatt, and Alexandra Von Heuvel. While we are sad to see the seniors graduate, we are excited to see all that they will accomplish in the future.
Following the event, Mr. Figliuzzi spent additional time signing books for the students, capping off one of our best-ever meetings with a wonderful personal touch.
The Pre-Law Society would like to give a big thank you to Mr. Frank Figliuzzi for taking the time to speak with Sam Houston students. His presentation was incredibly captivating, informative, and humorous!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 