Equity & Inclusion

Fostering an equitable and inclusive learning environment is a priority at the University of Louisville and at the Brandeis School of Law, as we strive to better serve our students, faculty and staff of color, those who identify as LGBTQ+, those with disabilities, those from international backgrounds and others who have been historically marginalized or underrepresented in the legal profession. At Brandeis Law, our commitment to diversity is demonstrated through principles of mutual respect and social justice. "We are embracing diverse perspectives," says Professor Cedric Merlin Powell, "and we’re not only incorporating that into the institution and the classroom but also into the community."

Our curriculum is informed and shaped by our mission of inclusive excellence. Per the Brandeis Law mission statement, we seek to "actively engage diverse participants in an academic community of students, faculty and staff that is strengthened by its diversity and its commitment to social justice, opportunity, sustainability and mutual respect." Likewise, guest speakers from the broader Louisville and legal communities are invited to share their experience and expertise on a host of topics such as affirmative action, marriage rights, racial profiling, voting rights, disability advocacy and reproductive justice. Meanwhile, our signature partnership with Central High School gives Brandeis Law students the chance to develop connections with youth from underserved communities and empower them to become the next generation of lawyers, leaders and active citizens.

Providing an inclusive student experience also means ensuring that legal education, programs and services are fully accessible to those with learning disabilities, mobility issues, visual or auditory impairments and other needs. Our Office of Student Affairs & Diversity is happy to assist current and future students with the disability documentation process and the coordination of appropriate accommodations.

The University of Louisville is proud to be consistently recognized as a leader in diversity and inclusion. UofL has been presented the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award by INSIGHT Into Diversity and designated one of its 2023 Diversity Champions, and for the ninth year in a row, UofL has been named by Campus Pride among the Best of the Best LGBTQ-Friendly Colleges & Universities nationwide.