By 1908, the Y’s law classes evolved into a state-approved, college-level course. When the Youngstown Association School was incorporated in 1916, classes were opened to men and women. He was responsible for all educational programming and launched a “robust campaign” to expand the association school, Lawson said. In 1920, the association school was certified to offer a four-year law program and award bachelor of law degrees. He joined the Rotary Club of Youngstown in 1919 and was named club president in 1923.