Plunkett Cooney will select three diverse law school students who participate in its Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) essay program to receive $2,500 diversity scholarships.
"We are excited to launch this year's scholarship program," said Laurel McGiffert, the firm's director of Diversity & Inclusion. "We are looking for diverse students who truly understand the importance of, and who are committed to, improving diversity and inclusion within the legal industry. Our essay review panel members are really looking forward to reading the essays that are submitted."
The program is open to all diverse students currently enrolled in an accredited law school. For purposes of the scholarship program, "diverse students" include, but are not limited to, applicants based on race, ethnicity, nationality, gender identity, LGBTQIA+ identity, disability and neurodivergence. Participants have until June 23 to submit their essays, which must address the following prompt:
"Share an experience you have had, challenge you have overcome, triumph you have enjoyed, or aspect of your background that has influenced your pursuit of a career in law. How has that experience impacted your approach to advancing the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion as you enter the legal profession?"
The firm has created a Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship website to assist students with their essay and personal information submissions. It can be accessed at https://plunkettcooney.isolvedhire.com/apply/0-0.php. Questions about the scholarship program application process can be directed to Jennifer Barczak at 248-901-4084 or jbarczak@plunkettcooney.com.
Since 2002, Plunkett Cooney has been among the law firms leading the D&I discussion within the legal industry. As such, the firm's diversity and inclusion scholarship program is a natural extension of its D&I goals, which include attracting and retaining law school students from diverse backgrounds.
Plunkett Cooney's D&I Committee members work with McGiffert to coordinate the firm's related activities, which include a focus on recruitment, retention, training, mentoring and community involvement. Each year, Plunkett Cooney supports numerous affinity groups, community organizations and law school student organizations that are focused on advancing diversity and inclusion.
