VANGUARD LEADERSHIP ACADEMY ORGANIZATION TEAM

Hilliard V. Castilla is an esteemed litigator and trial lawyer based in the Atlanta metropolitan area. he has a remarkable track record, having successfully tried over 200 jury trials with a success rate of 90%. This impressive record has earned him a reputation as one of the top trial lawyers in the region, particularly in handling high-profile and complex cases.

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His educational background includes an undergraduate degree from Jackson State University, where he graduated with Honors. He then pursued law and obtained his law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. After completing law school, he worked as a Law Clerk for the Hon. Joseph W. Hatchett in the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit.

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Throughout his legal career, Castilla has represented numerous individuals and corporations in litigation, handling cases in both Georgia and Mississippi. In addition to his work in law, he has also ventured into the sports and entertainment practice, representing athletes and entertainers.

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Judge Castilla was also appointed as Judge Pro Tem for the State of Fayette County, and he serves as an advisor to the Committee for Children and the Courts by the State Bar of Georgia. Furthermore, he engages in pro bono work for the Truancy Intervention Program, acting as an Attorney and Guardian Ad Litem for truant and at-risk youth.

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Castilla's dedication to empowering young individuals is evident through his role as a youth leader for a considerable number of years where, as a young adult, he spent a significant amount of time mentoring and uplifting youth. Additionally, his love for people led him to serve as a Pastor for many years and now serving in his leadership role as the Bishop over the Southeastern Diocese of the Church of Christ Holiness U.S.A.

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Furthermore, his passion for youth development and belief in their potential to become leaders led him to provide the vision and co-found Vanguard Leadership Academy (VLA). This 501c3 non-profit organization is dedicated to empowering under-served students by providing them with opportunities for exposure, fostering a supportive community, and offering holistic education.

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Scheduled for a summer launch in 2024, Vanguard's Summer Academy (VLA) is eagerly anticipating the arrival of its inaugural cohort, comprising 25 rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. Through VLA, Castilla aims to create a platform for young people to unleash and develop their inherent leadership abilities. He firmly believes in the power of education, inspiration, opportunity, and accountability to equip these talented youth with the necessary tools to succeed in various stages of life.

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Overall, Hilliard V. Castilla's commitment to youth mentorship, his active involvement in his community and church, and his role as a Bishop and Co-founder of VLA demonstrate his deep-rooted desire to uplift and empower individuals, especially the younger generation. His dedication to their development and success reflects a strong commitment to justice, youth development, and community service.