Dear Colorado Law Alumni—
As attorneys, we took an oath to "treat all persons whom [we] encounter through [our] practice of law with fairness, courtesy, respect and honesty," to "employ such means as are consistent with truth and honor," and to "never reject . . . the cause of the defenseless or oppressed." We are empowered as lawyers to be leaders in our firms, with our clients, and in our communities. What an awesome responsibility we have.
There has never been a more critical time to put our skills to use. We are in the midst of a global pandemic, growing awareness and unrest about the overwhelming challenges Black Americans face, and uncertainty about what is ahead for our economy and nation. But I am hopeful that the students who roam the halls of Colorado Law will use the knowledge they gain to further justice for all. I am hopeful because our alumni are engaged in meaningful dialogues with one another, challenging our understanding of the most pressing legal and policy challenges we are facing, and using our knowledge to inform our future. I am hopeful because I know that the students who come after us will be shaped by their experiences at Colorado Law to be passionate, dedicated professionals, just as it did for each of us.
I am also grateful that Colorado Law gives us the opportunity to keep learning. This year, the law school moved its Colorado Law Talks series to a virtual format, and this series now has record attendance. In addition, Colorado Law has launched its Race and the Law series, so we can renew our resolve to build a truly just society.
But we have work to do. As alumni, it is our responsibility to support those who come after us and will join our ranks. There are myriad ways to get involved with programs at the school, and I encourage each of you to get involved in whatever way works best for you. Resources can be found on the alumni page at colorado.edu/law/get-involved, or you can reach out to Georgette Vigil, senior director of alumni engagement and outreach, at georgette.vigil@colorado.edu.Individually, we can do so much to enhance society with our legal education and better uphold our oath to use our "knowledge of the law for the betterment of society and the improvement of the legal system." But together, we can do so much more.