The Fordham Law School campus buzzed with activity as the newest class of students met one another and Law School leaders during orientation this month. More than 500 students enrolled in the J.D. (day and evening divisions), LL.M., M.S.L., and S.J.D. programs this year.
While welcoming the class at their orientation, Fordham Law Dean Matthew Diller emphasized the importance of studying law at this time and how, as the next generation of lawyers, they must rise to the occasion.
“This is a watershed moment, when many of the precepts and thinking that have dominated American law for the past century are up for re-examination,” said Dean Diller. “Lawyers are at the center of resolving so many critically important issues, and play a key role in giving voice to people, entities, and groups, in ways that enable them to be heard and to have an impact.”
“Our goal, and my commitment to you, is that we will do everything we can to give you the tools and perspective necessary to live up to the highest aspirations of our profession,” he continued. “When you receive your diploma, you’ll have a framework, a set of skills, and an understanding of the stakes that will stay with you throughout your entire career.”
Joseph Landau, associate dean for academic affairs, shared advice for the students to help them navigate their journeys at the Law School: “Be ready to be challenged. Be ready to push new personal limits while you’re here. Be ready to jump in. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.”
Community Engagement and Building
The academic portion of orientation includes legal process and quantitative methods as well as a range of programming about professionalism, wellness, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Students met with their house leaders, full-time faculty who coordinate a series of programs throughout the academic year, and liaisons from Alumni Relations, the Career Planning Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, the Maloney Law Library, the Public Interest Resource Center, and Student Affairs. Student mentorship also plays an important part during orientation, with numerous opportunities for students to interact with leaders from the Board of Student Advisors.
The students not only got a better sense of what to expect moving forward, but also what it means to be part of the greater “Fordham Law family.”
Ed Joyce ’86, president of the Fordham Law Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, reassured students that the network of alumni—22,000 strong, with representatives in 50 U.S. states and 91 countries—is ready, willing, and able to help guide them throughout their studies and careers. “On day one, we deem you as a member of the FLAA, and since you’re one of us, we’re going to take care of you,” he said. “This is a very strong and supportive network that is here for your success.”
Student Bar Association President Will Lanier ’23 also introduced himself to the students, highlighting the purpose of SBA and explaining why Fordham Law’s student community is particularly exceptional and supportive. “Connect with me and with the upperclassmen,” he urged. “Know that we are here for you and that you will be successful if you surround yourself with your community.”
Other informal events, such as a welcome barbecue and pizza party, capped off orientation. Classes begin on Aug. 24.
Taking the Oath of Professionalism
On Aug. 18, the incoming J.D. class had the unique opportunity to hear from Fordham University President Tania Tetlow and distinguished Fordham Law alumni on the topic of professionalism.
President Tetlow moderated the Professionalism Panel. Michelle Chan ’15, an associate at Hunton Andrews Kurth, introduced the panel, which consisted of Jojo Annobil ’90, executive director of the Immigrant Justice Corps; Palmina Fava ’97, partner and co-head of the Government Investigations & White Collar Defense practice group at Vinson & Elkins; Sam Khichi ’98, executive vice president and general counsel at Becton Dickinson and Company; Hon. Katharine H. Parker ’92, magistrate judge of the U.S. District Court for Southern District of New York; and David Tanen ’96, partner at Two River. The goal of the program was to provide students with the perspectives of experienced alumni who are leaders in their field. The panelists provided their unique insights into the demands of lawyering and the privilege that comes with being an attorney.
Following the enlightening panel, which was sponsored by the FLAA, Judge Parker led the students in reciting the Fordham Law Professional Oath, a pledge taken by all Fordham Law students to act ethically and with integrity in law school and in their legal careers.
“We ask you to take the Oath of Professionalism at the beginning of law school because these are the moments you get to start practicing this,” said President Tetlow. “It’s a look forward to a time where you hold enough power that you can reset the balance of what is and is not allowed in the courtroom or wherever else you may be.”
Fordham Law School Professional Oath
As I enter into the legal profession and begin my legal studies at Fordham Law School, I pledge to act with the utmost good faith and integrity.
I will study diligently, commit myself to honest performance on every assignment and examination, and uphold, at all times, Fordham Law School’s Code of Academic Conduct.
I will interact with colleagues and adversaries alike with honesty, professionalism, and civility.
I will seek opportunities to provide leadership and to serve my community and will behave in ways that reflect positively on me, Fordham Law School, and the legal profession.