The Temple Law Review has elected Kayla Martin LAW ’21 Editor-in-Chief for Volume 93, which will publish four editions over the coming year. Martin is believed to be the first African American Editor-in-Chief of the flagship law review.
Current Editor-in-Chief Brittany Steane says that Martin’s “natural leadership skills” will prove invaluable. “I was impressed to see that the day after her election Kayla immediately began setting goals and planning for next year’s volume. These efforts make clear that she will work hard to ensure that Temple Law Review not only remains an important part of the development of legal discourse but also becomes more accessible and representative of our law school community,” Steane remarked. “I am excited to see what Kayla and the rest of the Volume 93 editorial board accomplishes next year.”
Martin’s plan for the year is ambitious, both for the Temple Law Review and for herself. “As the Editor-in-Chief, I intend to maintain a high-achieving collegial environment that prioritizes excellence and diversity in legal scholarship,” she said, adding: “Serving as the Editor-in-Chief provides the unique opportunity to represent the law school to the greater legal community. It is important to me that I represent the position with grace and tact while furthering the Law Review’s goals. As the first Black Editor-in-Chief, serving in this role means providing the representation that diverse, prospective Staff Editors seek when determining if Law Review is a good fit for them.”
Professor Laura Little, who serves as faculty advisor for Temple Law Review, expressed enthusiasm for Martin’s election as well: “Editors-in-Chief of the Temple Law Review are selected by their peers. These are peers who are closely acquainted with many qualities of the new Editor-in-Chief: legal talent, attention to detail, esteem from faculty and others, and the ability to perform rigorous tasks with grace and efficiency. We are proud that Kayla Martin has earned this honor. I very much look forward to working with her.”
“We’re extraordinarily proud of Kayla Martin’s accomplishments,” said Dean Gregory N. Mandel. “It takes tremendous discipline and commitment to serve as Editor-in-Chief – qualities for which Kayla has demonstrated a remarkable capacity. I’m excited to see where she leads the Temple Law Review in the coming year.”
For Martin, the choice to serve on the Law Review has always been about both scholarship and leadership. “Law reviews play a significant role in the development of the law, but rarely represent the diversity within the profession,” she said.” When I chose to write-on for Law Review, I acknowledged the need for diverse perspectives. It was imperative that I added my perspective to legal theories that disproportionately impact people of color.”
That determination is consistent with her decision to pursue a law degree. Martin says she “chose law school because I have always considered myself a “problem solver.” A legal education provides the opportunity to present unique solutions to complex issues that affect millions of people. I am confident that law school enhanced my ability to serve as an ally, advocate, and agent of change.” Looking forward, she intends to bring the same resolve to her legal career: “I look forward to highlighting the importance of diversity in the profession, tackling complex legal issues, and encouraging future generations of law students to make their mark.”