About the Center

Thought leadership

The Meltzer Center seeks to advance research and thought leadership that is both legally sound and universal in its application. Its current research focuses on three principal topics: (a) DEI and the law; (b) authenticity in the workplace; and (c) allyship in the workplace.

In addition to conducting its own research, the center advances and disseminates the latest research by other diversity and inclusion scholars. Through its speaker series, the center highlights the work of four luminaries each year on topics ranging from implicit bias to virtual reality. The series has welcomed Supreme Court justices, scholars in a variety of academic disciplines, and leading figures in the law and media. It attracts large and diverse audiences of students, faculty, alumni, diversity and inclusion practitioners, and members of the public.

Fostering an inclusive Law School community

A commitment to belonging begins at home. The center enables students to integrate diversity and inclusion research into their academic careers through directed research credits and an innovative year-long simulation course, Leadership, Diversity, and Inclusion. The course aims to impart the knowledge and tools to shape inclusive workplaces of the future, as well as the skills to thrive in workplaces as they are today. It examines the conceptual underpinning of diversity and inclusion ideals and concepts such as “implicit bias,” “stereotype threat,” and “covering.” It also includes a practicum on topics such as written communication, negotiation, public speaking, time management, and professional etiquette, taught through a combination of traditional classroom instruction, guest presentations by leading practitioners, and skill-based exercises with feedback and opportunities for improvement.

In addition to providing formal research and learning opportunities, the center offers an orientation program for all incoming JD students on diversity and inclusion, featuring acted scenarios written specifically for the Law School. It also engages students through a student fellows program and co-sponsored events with student organizations.

Transforming the world beyond our community

Diversity, inclusion, and belonging are among the core issues of our time. A rapidly increasing number of institutions are grappling with how to foster these values for their people. The center seeks to contribute to that broader national and international dialogue by sharing academic and tactical expertise to advance our common goals.

Supported by a Broadway director and dozens of actors, the center has worked with a variety of prominent organizations within the United States and globally to develop and roll out cutting-edge, research-backed diversity and inclusion education in live and digital formats. 

Relationship with other Law School initiatives

The center complements the work of the student affinity groups (ALSAs), the Coalition on Law and Representation, the Assistant Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, the Center on Race, Inequality, and the Law, the Birnbaum Women's Leadership Network, the Inclusion and Diversity Committee, the Office of Student Affairs, and other key institutions within the Law School.