Our Shared Values and Commitments

Dear members of the Columbia Law School community, 

The past eight weeks have truly been invigorating and rewarding. Our time together in various settings—over meals and coffees, in introductory meetings and at student events, at faculty and staff gatherings and alumni receptions—has only confirmed for me the tremendous potential that exists within our exceptional Columbia Law School community. Thank you for the warm welcome; it is a great privilege to be your Dean. 

I also have begun working with colleagues across the University, and I am honored that the Law School will play a leadership role on the President’s Advisory Committee on Institutional Voice. Open inquiry and free expression are critically important to the Law School, and I look forward to engaging the Columbia community to understand the proper role of institutional voice in advancing our academic mission.     

As we look to a bright future together, I must acknowledge how difficult the past year has been for our community. Although I am new to Columbia, many of you have described your personal experiences to me, shared how deeply you have been and continue to be affected, and expressed your desire to contribute to realizing the shared values and commitments that make the Law School great. In the weeks and months ahead, many members of our community will want to engage in private and public remembrances, organize events and programs, mark moments of importance, and express feelings and reflections in varied and deeply personal ways. It is vitally important that we give each other the space to do so.

Interim President Armstrong’s message articulated the University’s commitment to supporting the Columbia community, and the Law School also stands ready to provide assistance to faculty, students, and staff. The offices of Student Services and Graduate Degree Programs will be available to support law students. Faculty and staff can access resources through the Employee Assistance Program and Law School Human Resources.   

Columbia Law School must be a place where we treat our fellow community members with care, understanding, and open-mindedness—the same values that I have seen on display time and time again since I became Dean. These shared commitments will continue to guide us, not only as Columbians but as members of a diverse and pluralistic society. 

As I reflect on my first eight weeks, it is clear that Columbia Law School is ready to serve as an example for others to follow. I look forward to working with you to take this great institution to even greater heights. 

Best,

Daniel Abebe
Dean and Lucy G. Moses Professor of Law