group of students participating in our annual Students of Color Dinner.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The School of Law’s Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion works with students, faculty, administrators, and staff to promote diversity, inclusion, and cultural competency throughout all levels of the School of Law.

Through programming and support, we work strategically to develop relationships with students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds to continue to cultivate and maintain a diverse and inclusive law school environment.

On this page:

photo of Tolu.

Tolulope "Tolu" Odunsi
Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

723 O'Brian Hall, North Campus
Buffalo, NY 14260-1100
716-645-2354,
law-dei-questions@buffalo.edu

Looking for additional information? Contact us at law-dei-questions@buffalo.edu.

Tools for You

Special Sessions Communications Student Groups Resources
A faculty panel discussion featuring School of Law Professors Luis Chiesa, Athena Mutua and Anthony O’Rourke.

June 11, 2020 - George Floyd, Race and Policing

A faculty panel discussion featuring School of Law Professors Luis Chiesa, Athena Mutua and Anthony O’Rourke.

Students of Color Support Group

Mondays 2:30-4:00 - Online
Please contact UB Counseling Services (716-645-2720) to schedule a group screen.

This semi-structured support group is committed to providing an affirming space for Students of Color to reflect on their experiences at a Predominately White Institution. In this group we recognize the unique challenges of Students of Color and aim to foster a community for students to give voice to their experiences, gain support, and develop healthy coping strategies.

Topics explored in this group include but are not limited to: navigating microaggressions, feelings of isolation, imposter syndrome, family/social relationships, and maintaining healthy self-care in the current socio-political climate.

Goals

  1. Revamp Academic Programming and Student Success
  2. Increase Diversity Amongst our Student Body, Faculty, Staff and Administration
  3. Promote and Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
  4. Expand Support and Opportunities for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Mission Statement

The University at Buffalo School of Law is committed to providing an environment where students, staff, and faculty from underrepresented minority groups excel personally, academically, and professionally. The Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion seeks to continue to collaborate with the various School of Law Departments and community partners to provide a comprehensive approach to executing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. Through program development, strategic planning, and community outreach, the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strives to continue to create an academic community comprised of a diverse group of professionals whose differences are valued as a source of strength in our law school community.

How We Achieve Diversity

  • Recruit talented and diverse students, staff, and faculty.
  • Provide support to retain diverse students, staff, and faculty.
  • Develop a culture of respect and awareness for diverse identities and culture.
  • Provide governance mechanisms through which diversity, equity, and inclusion concerns can be addressed.
  • Engage the community by providing opportunities for members of the Buffalo-Niagara community to engage with students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds at the School of Law.