In the wake of a contentious lawsuit, Morrison Foerster LLP (MoFo) has revamped the qualification benchmarks for its diversity fellowship scheme. This shift comes on the heels of a lawsuit initiated by a conservative faction, whose leader was instrumental in upending affirmative action in university admissions this year.
MoFo Changes Criteria : New Criteria Unveiled
MoFo’s rebranded Keith Wetmore Fellowship for Excellence, Diversity, and Inclusion initiative is opening its doors to first and second-year students who shine with a “demonstrated ardor for championing diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility,” as outlined on their official portal. No longer just targeting traditionally underrepresented demographics in the legal sphere, the fellowship seeks individuals who stand out due to their adaptability, cultural finesse, resilience, and rich life tales.
While eligibility remains contingent upon one’s status as a first-year law scholar and authorization to operate within US borders, the fellowship casts a wider net to include those who can infuse fresh perspectives owing to their diverse backgrounds and experiences.
MoFo Changes Criteria : A Historical Lookback
Previously, the fellowship extended its embrace primarily to legal aspirants from communities underrepresented in the legal realm, such as students of color, LGBTQ-identifying individuals, and those with disabilities. This detail comes courtesy of a revised grievance submitted by the American Alliance for Equal Rights.
