Baker & Daniels Launches Diversity Law Scholarships

Beginning this fall, second-year law students at Indiana University School of Law – Bloomington, Indiana University School of Law – Indianapolis and the University of Notre Dame Law School will be eligible for two new $10,000 Diversity Scholarships offered by   Baker & Daniels LLP. Scholarship recipients also will receive a place in the firm's summer associate program.

The Diversity Scholarship program, one of the first such programs offered by a local law firm, was borne from Baker & Daniels' ongoing demonstrated commitment to attracting, retaining and developing individuals with diverse backgrounds. The firm expects scholarship applicants to be individuals from varied ethnic, racial, cultural and lifestyle backgrounds as well as those with disabilities or unique viewpoints.

"We serve a vastly diverse group of clients who, in turn, employ diverse workforces," said Greg Utken, chair of the firm's diversity committee. "It only makes sense that to effectively serve and partner with our clients we enhance our efforts to make Indiana and our firm a destination for diverse and talented professionals. I'm proud that we're taking a leadership position on these efforts through our internal programs and the Diversity Scholarship program."

Said Susanah Mead, interim dean at the IU School of Law – Indianapolis, "We are extremely grateful to Baker & Daniels for establishing the Diversity Scholarship program – not only because of the scholarship funds, but also because of the opportunity it affords students to participate in the firm's summer associate program. That experience is invaluable."

Baker & Daniels maintains an active diversity committee within the firm, which is responsible for developing various ongoing internal and external diversity and inclusion initiatives.

In addition, the firm has earned recognition for its diversity efforts, including being ranked in the top 3 in the U.S. among 105 law firms in a Harvard University Women's Law Association survey based on opportunities for women. It also has received recognition in the past by Multicultural Law Magazine as one of the Top 100 law firms in the nation for diversity.

Applications for the Diversity Scholarship program will be available in April 2007. The application deadline is June 30, 2007.

Founded in 1863, Baker & Daniels LLP is one of Indiana's largest law firms. With more than 375 lawyers and consulting professionals, Baker & Daniels serves clients in regional, national and international business and litigation matters from offices in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, South Bend and Elkhart, Ind.; Washington, D.C.; and China.