Washburn University School of Law Reaches Historic Level of Diversity with Incoming Class

Topeka, Kan. – Washburn University School of Law announced today that it has reached a historic milestone this year when it welcomed its newest students. Out of the 103 new students, 43% self-reported as a member of at least one under-represented population, which includes ethnic identity, gender identity and sexual orientation.

“At Washburn Law, we believe that representation is incredibly important, and this year’s entering class exemplifies our commitment to creating diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal profession,” said Dean Jeffrey Jackson.

Jackson also noted that Washburn’s commitment to diversity has been evident from the founding of the college by abolitionists to the graduation of its first female law student in 1912, a time when many states would not allow women to practice law.

The student group, which includes both spring and fall starters, is made up of 92 traditional first-year JD students, 8 LL.M. students and 3 transfer JD students. This group also represents 16 states and 51 undergraduate institutions with 45% of the entire class joining the school from out of state. 

“We know that our entire student population learns best when voices from diverse backgrounds are represented in the classroom,” said Jackson. “We’ve made a commitment to both recruiting and retaining these students and we strive to enable a culture of inclusiveness in all areas of student life.” 

Contact:
Karli Davis
Director of Marketing Communications
karli.davis@washburn.edu
785.670.2013