First Year Students Participate in Prestigious Diversity Fellowship Program

As California Western enters its 100th year, we remain steadfast in our dedication to training compassionate lawyers who are representative of our diverse society. We are proud to see that the latest issue of San Diego Lawyer shining a spotlight on the CWSL students who participated in the San Diego County Bar Association & the Association of Corporate Counsel (SDCBA-ACC)’s Diversity Fellowship Program this fall. 

After a rigorous selection process, the program matched first-year CWSL students with local employers, giving them “the opportunity to develop their skills and make professional contacts… at law firms and corporate legal departments.” Deanna Maayaa, who was matched with American Specialty Health, Inc. was quoted saying, “This fellowship was a transformative experience that bridged the gap between academic learning and real-world application.” Roberto Gaytan, who was a fellow with Beckton Dickinson and Company, remarked, “Moving forward in my career, I will continue to foster diversity through visibility and representation.”  

The purpose of the SDCBA-ACC’s Diversity Fellowship Program is “to increase the number of diverse attorneys practicing in San Diego County law firms, corporate legal departments, and public agencies by providing first year law students with an.” Nima Shull, the program’s director, noted “expanding attacks on DEI, and said, “Given the increasing polarization and politicization of this subject, safeguarding DEI initiatives is critical for legal and business leaders, now more than ever.” 

John McKee, CWSL's Assistant Dean of Career & Professional Development Office, said that the "SDCBA Diversity Fellowship Program (“DFP”) gives a warm welcome to diverse California Western students from some of the most influential legal employers in San Diego. DFP is a win-win for both California Western’s many diverse and first-generation law students, and for the participating DFP employers in the San Diego legal community."

We are proud to host one of the most diverse student populations at California Western School of Law and to open the doors of opportunity for those wishing to serve the whole community. 

You can read more about the fellowship program, employers, and students here: San Diego Lawyer September/October 2023 - Issuu.