School of Law Awarded Diversity Grant

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas School of Law will offer a four-week summer program for student populations historically underrepresented in law schools. The program will be supported by a $300,000 grant from the Law School Admission Council. The program will be offered the next three years. 

The University of Arkansas LSAC DiscoverLaw.org Prelaw Undergraduate Scholars Program, better known as PLUS, will enroll 20 undergraduates entering their sophomore or junior year in fall 2012. The program focuses on the inclusion of students from colleges with historical or significant populations of African American, Asian American, Latino and Native American students; first generation college students; those with financial challenges; and historically underrepresented student populations. The grant covers the cost of instruction and room and board, and enrolled students will receive a stipend.

“We are honored that the Law School Admission Council has recognized the commitment to diversity that the university and the School of Law share,” said G. David Gearhart, chancellor. “This important program will bring deserving students to our campus to prepare them for success in college, in law school and beyond.”

The School of Law is one of only nine law schools nationwide currently sponsored by the Law School Admission Council to host a DiscoverLaw.org PLUS program. The University of Arkansas program, developed in consultation with Vice Provost for Diversity Charles Robinson, includes academics, professional development and fieldtrips. Courses will be taught in the morning and mentoring programs with members of the local and regional bar will be offered in the afternoons.

“The School of Law’s history of inclusion and forward thinking dates back to 1948, when Silas Hunt enrolled here,” said Dean Stacy L. Leeds. “I can think of no better way to honor and build upon our school’s legacy than by bringing the opportunities of a legal education to underserved communities.”

For more information on the program, please visit http://law.uark.edu/plus/ and http://www.discoverlaw.org/Students/PLUS-summer-program.asp.