Fordham Law received an A+ rating as a “Top School for Racial Justice” in preLaw magazine’s fall 2022 issue.
“Though ratings are inevitably a flawed way to measure value, I am proud that we are getting attention for this important work,” said Dean Matthew Diller. “We are very focused on ensuring our students leave with an understanding of the role that race plays in our legal system and in our society through coursework, student advocacy groups, conferences, symposia, and our academic centers.”
Professor Elizabeth Cooper spoke with preLaw magazine about how Fordham Law views racial and social justice issues through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“It’s not just an area of study,” Elizabeth Cooper, director of Fordam’s Feerick Center for Social Justice. “We’re really trying to create an environment in the classroom and in the hallways of all aspects of law school life that is one of inclusiveness and belonging.”
The law school took a fresh look at these issues and have made huge strides forward over the last two to three years, Cooper said. It included Dean Matthew Diller creating an antiracism set of priorities.
“Lawyers have a responsibility to know that history and understand it and dismantle it regardless of what area your speciality might be,” Cooper said.
Fordham Law was also listed among the “Top Schools for Tax Law” and the “Top Schools for Criminal Law,” receiving A- ratings in these specialty areas.
Earlier this year, U.S. News ranked Fordham Law No. 18 and No. 28 in criminal law and tax law, respectively.