The Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University welcomed 125 students from eight Pittsburgh area high schools for its fourth annual “Future Voices of the People” event on November 7. The program has continued to grow, doubling in size from the 60 students who attended the inaugural “Future Voices of the People” event.
The one-day program is hosted at Duquesne Kline School of Law for high school students, including students from historically underrepresented backgrounds and communities. Students were welcomed by Duquesne University President Ken Gormley, Chief Diversity Officer Crystal McCormick Ware, and Dean April Barton. They attended a mock class taught by Professor Marissa Meredith and participated in interactive activities with current Duquesne Kline School of Law students.
The Honorable Elliott Howsie, L’98, and the Honorable Nicola Henry-Taylor, L’96, Duquesne Kline School of Law alumni, also joined the students in one of the Law School’s courtrooms to speak about their law school experiences and answer questions from students.
Students attended the event from Baldwin High School, Central Catholic High School, Nazareth Prep, Perry High School, Pittsburgh Obama 6-12, Steel Valley High School, Urban Pathways 6-12 Charter School, and West Mifflin High School.
During the day, students learned the role and societal function of lawyers, including what lawyers do, why lawyers are essential to a just and equitable society, and possible careers in the legal field.
Duquesne Kline School of Law Dean April Barton thinks this event is important to introduce students to the legal field and the possibilities it holds. She said, “Lawyers occupy very important roles in society. They can impact history, affect change, and have the capability to improve the human condition. Lawyers provide a voice to many people, and my hope is that those who attended our event are inspired to consider a career in law and be positive agents of change.”
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