New Gates Scholars Program Will Support Students from Underrepresented Backgrounds

Law school is challenging and can be especially so for students from backgrounds that are traditionally underrepresented in higher education. The E. Nathaniel Gates Scholars Program was launched in the spring to support students from underrepresented backgrounds throughout their law school years. It is designed to help students build powerful support networks and make lasting connections for successful legal careers.

The innovative approach is interdepartmental and intergenerational to provide social support, community, and networking opportunities. The Gates Scholars approach is rooted in the belief that community drives success in law school. Students may apply if they are from backgrounds that are underrepresented based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or other criteria, such as those from immigrant backgrounds or who are the first generation in their family to enter a higher-education institution.

Associate Dean of Student Services Jenn Kim said the Gates Scholars Program will provide mentorship and build community to support underrepresented and first-generation students and help them navigate the unique and specific challenges of law school.

The program is named in honor of the late Professor E. Nathaniel Gates, who died in 2006 and served as an advisor to student initiatives and organizations, including the Diversity Coalition and the Black, Asian, and Latino Law Students Association, and who, at the time of his death, was working on a sweeping examination of race in American law dating to the colonial period.

The Gates Scholars Program includes:

— Pre-orientation community-building events

— Membership in affinity groups

— Educational opportunities for foundational tools

— Networking and social events

— Mentorship support

— Elected Gates Scholar Leaders who will interface with law school departments

— A directory to access other Gates Scholars and alumni for job opportunities and support