On August 23, 434 first-year J.D. students joined together to take their oath of professionalism as a part of their orientation programming.
The oath of professionalism is a pledge taken by students to act ethically and with integrity in law school and in their legal careers. Every year, as part of their orientation to Fordham Law School, new students come together to formally take their oath at a ceremony joined by faculty and alumni. It’s an important opportunity for new students to hear from a panel of experienced alumni about the importance of ethics, what kinds of professional challenges they can expect to encounter in their careers, and how they can overcome those challenges.
Last year’s event was held virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic, but this year students were able to join in person—albeit masked—gathering together at the Gerald W. Lynch Theatre at John Jay College.
Alumni Share Insights
The recitation of the oath was preceded by a panel discussion moderated by Fordham Law Alumni Association (FLAA) President Palmina M. Fava, who introduced four alumni who offered advice to new students as they begin their legal education.
Judge Joanne Quiñones ’97 offered her thoughts on why, in the aftermath of the protests for racial justice, safeguarding civil rights and ensuring equal access to the law was more important than ever. Deneen Donnley ‘92, echoed a similar sentiment, adding that lawyers can often play the role of “strategists” and “agitators” when it comes to advancing important issues.
The landmark social events of the past year were top of mind for many of the panelists, and they discussed the crucial role that lawyers can play in upholding the rule of law. Rep. Tom Suozzi ‘89, who was present on January 6 when the Capitol was breached, quoted former U.S. Congressman and Holocaust survivor Tom Lantos, who said “The veneer of civilization is paper thin. We are its guardians, and we can never rest.”
As future lawyers, the panel argued, the students would need to behave with integrity and abide by the codes of conduct of their profession, even when they might be tempted not to. Jessica Carey ‘03 told the story of an opposing counsel who consistently showed up late to meetings, sent late night emails, and otherwise behaved in an unprofessional manner. Nevertheless, rather than responding in kind, Carey’s team made the decision to uphold their own standards and continue being courteous.
An Obligation to Ethics
Personal conduct and safeguarding one’s reputation were also important topics. Donnley offered advice that her own mentor had once shared with her: “You should help someone else even when you don’t need anything in return. And when you live that way, good things will come to you.”
In her closing remarks Judge Quiñones urged students to see themselves as ambassadors of the legal world and to take that responsibility seriously. “Be mindful of how you comport yourself inside and outside the halls of Fordham and know the value and the power that you have not only as an individual, but as a member of the legal profession,” Quiñones said.
Afterwards, students rose from their seats and recited the Fordham Law School Professional Oath.
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.