Fifty students and administrators gathered last month for Drake Law’s first-ever Diversity Retreat.
The two-hour retreat was co-sponsored by the Law School’s Diversity Committee and the Student Bar Association, and was an opportunity to gauge the climate of the law school, understand how diversity plays a role in the school, understand positives and negatives about student experiences, and brainstorm issues that need to be addressed.
“Everyone present provided valuable perspective and suggestions on the climate within the law school and ways in which Drake Law can continue to improve its diversity,” said Student Bar Association President, Mike Traxinger. “I am extremely energized and motivated after our conversation and I know that we all look forward to the continued value of diversity and the progress within the Law School to enhance student life.”
The retreat resulted in several ideas on how Drake Law can continue and improve upon its goal of having an inclusive community. An action plan is being put into place, in which students and the administration will be implementing these ideas in the coming year.
The retreat was followed by a networking reception cosponsored by the Women and Minorities Iowa Bar Committee, IOWA, INBA and PCWA. Students had the opportunity to network with over 60 judges and lawyers from the Des Moines Community.