Exciting Highlights from Stanford Law School Convocation 2021

Exciting Highlights from Stanford Law School Convocation 2021

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Importance of Acknowledging Native Land
3. Elsa Chang's Journey from Lawyer to Journalist
4. The Power of a Stanford Law Degree
5. Embracing Change and Making U-Turns
6. The Role of Lawyers as Leaders in Society
7. The Diversity and Achievements of Stanford Law Students
8. The Barbara Allen Babcock Prize for Teaching Excellence
9. Professor Diego Zimbrano's Outstanding Teaching
10. Conclusion

Article:

The Importance of Acknowledging Native Land

In the opening remarks of the Stanford Law School Convocation, there was a sincere acknowledgment of the land on which the university stands. This recognition serves as a reminder of the connection between the institution and the indigenous peoples who have stewardship over the land. Standing in solidarity with the Mewekma Ohlone Tribe, the convocation attendees were urged to honor and respect the significance of this ancestral territory. This act of land acknowledgement and the subsequent invocation set the stage for a convocation filled with reflection, gratitude, and a call to action.

Elsa Chang's Journey from Lawyer to Journalist

The guest speaker at the convocation, Elsa Chang, shared her own personal journey from being a lawyer to becoming a journalist. Her inspiring story resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's passion and purpose. Despite the initial doubts and criticism she faced from others, Chang followed her Curiosity and embarked on a path that aligned with her true calling. Her message served as a reminder to the students that a career in law does not have to be linear, and that it is okay to make a u-turn if it leads to personal fulfillment and making a positive impact in the world.

The Power of a Stanford Law Degree

Dean Martinez, in his address to the attendees, highlighted the prestige and privilege associated with obtaining a Stanford Law degree. He acknowledged that the degree opens doors and bestows upon its recipients a certain amount of power and influence. However, this power comes with a responsibility to use it wisely and ethically. The dean urged the students to leverage their education and positions of privilege for the benefit of humanity, emphasizing the importance of seeking justice and peace in a world marked by inequality and conflict.

Embracing Change and Making U-Turns

Chang's story of transitioning from being a successful lawyer to pursuing a career in journalism underscored the significance of embracing change and being open to making u-turns in one's professional journey. She encouraged the students to not be confined by societal expectations or the constraints of their chosen professions. Instead, she urged them to stay true to themselves and their passions, even if it means deviating from the traditional legal path. Chang's personal experience served as a testament to the power of following one's curiosity and making choices that Align with one's Core values and aspirations.

The Role of Lawyers as Leaders in Society

Dean Martinez highlighted the role of lawyers as leaders in society. He emphasized that lawyers have a vital role to play in addressing pressing societal issues such as racial inequality, climate change, and the impact of technology on our lives. He encouraged the students to go beyond traditional legal practice and collaborate with professionals from different fields to develop comprehensive solutions to these complex challenges. The dean instilled in the students the belief that their legal education at Stanford equips them with the skills and knowledge to Shape a more just and equitable world.

The Diversity and Achievements of Stanford Law Students

The convocation celebrated the diversity and achievements of the Stanford Law student community. The students come from various backgrounds, with diverse interests and talents. They bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the law school, enriching the educational experience for all. The convocation recognized the accomplishments of the students, their dedication to excellence, and their commitment to making a positive impact in their chosen fields.

The Barbara Allen Babcock Prize for Teaching Excellence

In recognition of exceptional teaching, the Barbara Allen Babcock Prize for Teaching Excellence was awarded to Professor Diego Zimbrano. The prize honors instructors in the 1L required curriculum who promote inclusive learning, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to the highest standards of professional integrity. Professor Zimbrano was commended for his exceptional preparation, dedication to fostering inclusive classroom discussions, and his commitment to getting to know each student personally. His teaching has left a lasting impact on the students and exemplifies the spirit of the award.

Conclusion

The Stanford Law School Convocation served as a reminder of the importance of land acknowledgment and the need to honor the indigenous peoples who have stewardship over the land. It highlighted the importance of following one's passion and purpose, even if it means making a u-turn in one's career. The convocation underscored the power and privilege associated with a Stanford Law degree, emphasizing the responsibility to use that privilege for the betterment of society. The event celebrated the diversity and achievements of the student community while recognizing exceptional teaching and its impact on the students' educational journey.