Stories and News

Long before intersectionality became a watchword, Florynce Kennedy ’51 identified the confluence of race and gender discrimination, bringing to second-wave feminism a Black voice that was impossible not to hear. But first, she took on Columbia Law School.

In honor of Black History Month, Columbia Law offers a selection of original stories highlighting the accomplishments and impact of Black alumni, faculty, and students on the Law School community and beyond.

Hillary Maduka ’21 LL.M., an accomplished advocate for disadvantaged populations, was awarded $50,000 by the global law firm.

The first Black woman to graduate from Columbia Law School was a pathbreaking litigator and jurist.

After risking his life to desegregate Ole Miss in 1962, Meredith continued his activism at Columbia Law School.

A litigation partner at Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer and a self-described person of faith, Boston is the first woman of color to be elected president of the New York City Bar Association. Her priorities include encouraging diversity and inclusion in the profession, navigating the repercussions of COVID-19, and safeguarding the rule of law.

The first out gay professor at Columbia Law School and the second African-American member of the faculty, Thomas has brought a pioneering spirit and a critical perspective to his work over nearly four decades as a teacher, scholar, activist, and artist.

Empowered and honored by her role leading the 119-year-old journal, Asebiomo says her mission is to publish scholarship that raises diverse voices and ideas.

The Columbia Black Law Students Association honored Jamila Hall ’03 and organized a day of panel discussions.

First, Franklin A. Thomas, a 2020 Medal for Excellence honoree, worked to rebuild his old neighborhood through an innovative nonprofit agency. Then, he took on improving the world at the helm of powerful foundations.