King Hall Hosts 2024 Pathway to Law Summit

  • by Viktoria Kachagina

On Feb. 23-24, UC Davis Law hosted the California LAW Pathways ninth annual Pathway to Law Summit.

This year, Cal LAW celebrated its 10th anniversary of bringing together law professionals, students, and educators to connect and advance diversity and inclusion within law schools and the legal field.

California Supreme Court Associate Justice Kelli Evans '94 and Executive Director of Los Angeles Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department Capri Maddox gave powerful keynote addresses to kick off the event. Charles Robinson, University of California General Counsel and Senior Vice President of Legal Affairs, was also in attendance.

The agenda featured tracks for attendees, including one for faculty and staff that explored different strategies from various schools in California. The second track focused on students and featured an immersive tour of the law school, a mock class with Professor Irene Joe, panels with deans of admissions, and more. Assistant Dean of Admission and Financial Aid Kristen Mercado represented UC Davis Law during a law school fair in the King Hall courtyard. The summit also included a student panel and enlightening conversations on Supreme Court decisions affecting higher education.

Cal LAW presented awards to highlight recipients' work in promoting diversity and building an inclusive environment within the legal field. Dean Kevin R. Johnson, who is on the Cal LAW Pathways Advisory Board, and Santa Monica College received the Cal LAW Pathways Diversity Champion Award.

Hundreds of students and educators from California high schools, community colleges, undergraduate institutions, and law schools connected over meaningful discussions about the legal profession, emphasizing the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion. 

Created by the State Bar of California's Council on Access and Fairness, with assistance from the Law School Admission Council, Cal LAW establishes an educational path for students from high schools, community colleges, and four-year institutions to enter law schools or pursue careers related to the legal field so the profession can mirror the state's diverse population.