USF Reception Celebrates Diversity
October 12, 2012
The USF School of Law Fifth Annual Diversity Reception, hosted by Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, took place Oct. 4. Students, faculty, staff, and alumni attended the event in celebration of diversity at the law school and in the legal profession.
Dean Jeffrey Brand said the law school’s commitment to diversity is evident by the 46 percent students of color included in the entering class, USF’s ranking as the 10th most diverse law school in the nation, and the Academic Support Program, which helps individuals who need extra support meet the demands of law school.
“A commitment to diversity and equality lies at the core of the law school’s mission,” he said. “Without diversity, a great legal education is impossible.”
The event included opening remarks by Patricia K. Gillette ’76, a partner at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP.
The active role of clients, the response of law firms to the changing attitudes of associates, and the demands of law students are contributing to diversity advancements, she said.
Richard Burchett Jr. 3L, Catherine Tran 2L, and Associate Justice of the California Court of Appeal for the First District Maria P. Rivera ’74 also provided student and alumni perspectives on diversity.
“Diversity in legal education is reflective of communities that we will be serving,” said Tran, who is serving as co-chair of the Student Bar Association’s Diversity Committee with Burchett. “I am proud of the devotion USF has to creating a diverse and supportive community.”