Professor of Law
One of the many things I love about Temple Law School is its unwavering pursuit of excellence – in our teaching, in our scholarship, and in the community we are building together. In my role as part of Temple Law’s DEI&B team, I am responsible for advancing our commitment to building and sustaining a diverse, inclusive community – a responsibility I accept with pride. That said, I am by no means alone in doing this work – rather, it is (as it must be) a collaborative effort among faculty, staff, students, and alumni, and for many of us a true labor of love.
One of our most successful collaborations in this regard has been our Community Conversations initiative, in which we gather to learn about legal and social issues that impact many of our students, faculty, staff, and neighbors. Faculty from the law school as well as other schools and colleges frequently lend their subject matter expertise to help inform our knowledge of the issues, and the discussions that follow are grounded in empathy, openness, and respect. Through these conversations, we have learned that difference does not have to cause division; it can instead become a powerful catalyst for understanding and growth.
Another unique Temple Law tradition is the annual “diversity reception”, a celebration of authenticity that welcomes people who identify as diverse along many axes of identity, background, and experience. It is a chance for faculty, staff, and students to connect with one another outside of our classrooms and offices; to develop confidence that we are valued for who we are, not just our academic or professional success; and to learn more about how those around us have arrived at this point in their journey and where they want to go next. The diversity reception is a wonderful opportunity to experience the sense of belonging that comes from being celebrated as one’s authentic self and celebrating the authenticity of those around you.
These programming initiatives are part of our larger institutional commitment to fostering a culture of belonging at Temple Law. When we know we belong, we have what we need to grow and thrive. From the first day of orientation to commencement and beyond, we work to make sure that each member of our community knows that they belong here; that they are invited to contribute to the community as their authentic self; and that they have what they need to pursue success on their terms. It is work I am honored to help lead and grateful for the opportunity to do.