AccessLex Institute Invests in Signature Access Initiative, Setting New Standard for Legal Education
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NEW YORK, NY – The City University of New York (CUNY) School of Law has been awarded a $549,868 grant from AccessLex Institute® to expand the Pipeline to Justice Program, its signature access initiative. The grant will enable CUNY Law to increase enrollment, train additional faculty and staff, and conduct a comprehensive assessment of the program, setting a new standard for diversity, equity, and inclusion in legal education.
At its core, Pipeline to Justice is a 10-month pre-law program that goes beyond traditional preparation. It employs a holistic approach, interweaving rigorous LSAT training with crucial elements often overlooked: academic skill development, community building, self-esteem enhancement, and professional identity formation to create pathways to legal education for students from historically excluded communities.
“This funding will allow us to expand the reach and impact of the Pipeline to Justice Program, which helps CUNY Law bring in outstanding students from historically underrepresented backgrounds who will help strengthen the community of the law school and improve the legal profession,” said Sudha Setty, Dean of CUNY School of Law.
The grant will enable CUNY Law to increase program enrollment year over year, improve the percentage of Pipeline graduates entering law school, and create a replicable model for other law schools across the country.
Joanne Hyppolite, Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management emphasized the importance of the program in the Law School’s mission. “The Pipeline to Justice Program is a testament to CUNY Law’s ongoing commitment to redefine student success,” said Dr. Hyppolite. “By creating a path for students from underrepresented and non-traditional backgrounds we are affirming their experiences and identities, with the overarching goal of creating a more representative legal profession.”
“AccessLex Institute is committed to supporting initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in legal education,” said Christopher P. Chapman, President and Chief Executive Officer of AccessLex Institute. “We are proud to partner with CUNY Law in this effort to create a more diverse and inclusive legal profession.”
The Pipeline to Justice Program has not only solidified CUNY Law’s position as one of the most diverse law schools in the country but has also transformed the academic experience for all students. By bringing together individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including those directly impacted by the legal system or who have witnessed the law’s disparate effects firsthand, the program cultivates a learning environment that is both intellectually rigorous and inclusive. This diversity of perspectives enriches classroom discussions, challenges preconceived notions, and deepens the understanding of complex legal concepts, ultimately preparing students to become powerful advocates for their communities. With the generous support of the AccessLex Institute grant, CUNY Law is well-positioned to expand the reach and impact of this transformative program, setting a new standard for diversity, equity, and inclusion in legal education.
For more information about the Pipeline to Justice Program and how to apply, please visit www.law.cuny.edu/pipelinetojustice
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The City University of New York School of Law is the premier public interest law school in the country. It has a dual mission of training outstanding public interest lawyers and diversifying the legal profession. CUNY Law is nationally recognized for its clinical programs and its commitment to diversity and public service.
AccessLex Institute is a nonprofit organization committed to helping talented, purpose-driven students find their path from aspiring lawyer to fulfilled professional. In partnership with its nearly 200 member law schools, improving access and positively influencing legal education have been at the heart of the Company’s mission since 1983. Learn more about how AccessLex is empowering the next generation of lawyers at AccessLex.org.