A Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Belonging
“We bring our founding aspirations closer to reality by creating a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff that ensures the belonging, thriving, and success of every member.”
—DEAN RISA GOLUBOFF
Affinity Groups
Among the Law School’s more than 70 student organizations are 19 affinity groups.
Center for the Study of Race and Law
UVA Law has committed to the study of race and law.
Diversity in Charlottesville
Explore resources for community members and our guide to life in C’ville.
FAST FACTS ABOUT DIVERSITY
40%
of the Class of 2025 identify as people of color
16%
of the Class of 2025 identify as LGBTQ+
19
student affinity organizations
Divider
STUDENTS DISCUSS DIVERSITY
John Ghazoul
'21
“I currently serve as president of the Middle Eastern and North African Law Student Association, and I feel that the administration genuinely cares about our organization and its place at the Law School.”
Christina Luk
'21
“I ran for Student Bar Association senator and became chair of the Diversity Advisory Council. ... There is always more to be done, but I’m confident that we’re making headway.”
Jameil Brown
'21
“It is important that our communities and institutions build a culture where everyone contributes and those contributions are valued. Only then can we build equity in our society.”
Manal Cheema
'20
“Diversity is not tolerance, but acceptance, inclusion, respect, and understanding of the unique qualities and lived experiences.”
OUR STORIES
Honoring Gregory Swanson
Gregory Swanson was UVA and UVA Law’s first black student in 1950. Read about how he helped integrate the University and the award established in his honor.
Women Who Led the Way
UVA Law is celebrating a centennial of coeducation in 2020. Read a timeline of women’s achievements.
Elaine Jones ’70 Became NAACP LDF Leader
The Law School’s first female black graduate became the first woman to lead the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.
UVA Law Pride
Alumni and faculty recount the history of LGBTQ rights at UVA Law and beyond.
Advocating for Indigenous Rights
Muscogee Creek Nation member Lauren King ’08 uses her law degree on behalf of tribes in the Northwest.
AAPI Alums Make Mark
Learn more about 20 recent Asian American and Pacific Islander graduates who are prominent in their fields.
Many Voices at UVA Law
Faculty, students and experts talk about diversity and related topics, both at UVA Law and in society more broadly.
Contact
Community, Engagement and Equity Office
Mark Jefferson, Assistant Dean for Community Engagement and Equity / mjefferson@law.virginia.edu
(434) 924-9294