The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law was ranked 13th nationally in the preLaw Magazine for being one of the best law schools for African Americans on Feb. 5, 2020.
Katharine Schaffzin, dean of the School of Law in her interview with the preLaw magazine, stated that their department offers one of the most successful and oldest applicant pre-admission programs in the country.
“Memphis Law offers one of the oldest and most successful pre-admission programs for diverse applicants in the nation,” said Katharine Schaffzin
The UofM Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law also lowered the cost of tuition a quarter of the price than what it was before for students who are interested in pursuing in law. In fact, because of the reduction in cost, the law school was awarded an A- for its Trial Advocacy program and was recognized for its out-of-state tuition reduction.
The new reduced price is scheduled to be in effect in August. They have also reduced the out-of-state tuition for students by 25%, making it one of the most affordable law schools in the country. The new tuition structure will take effect in August.
Dovetta Holeman, junior at the University of Memphis, said that it’s awesome that the University of Memphis is starting to pay attention to the importance of diversity.
“Education is important, and anything that we are recognizing African Americans students as a whole is a really great thing,” Holeman said. “Most African American families barely have funds to pay for a bachelor’s degree, so the 25% off tuition is really great.”
In her interview with the preLaw magazine, Schaffin said that she only expects the enrollment of African Americans and other races to increase.
“I anticipate our ranking by preLaw Magazine will continue to improve,” said Schaffzin, “as we grow our investment in staff, programs and scholarships supporting diverse students at Memphis Law.”
Lindsey Murphey, a senior at the University of Memphis, said that it is great that they’re making the cost of school easier for students like her and her sister.
“I’m really glad they did this. I didn’t know they did this, and that’s crazy because my sister attends the law school here,” Murphey said. “If they’re lowering tuition in their department, they should do it for the whole school, but I’m glad the law school decided to do that, maybe they can set an example.”
Lauren Johnson, a freshman at the University of Memphis, said that she had no idea that this occurred.
“I had no idea, but I think it’s amazing because it just shows everything can change,” Johnson said.
Tiffany Jones, a junior at the University of Memphis, said she was surprised that the UofM received an award for diversity.
“I didn’t know they received awards for being diverse, but I guess it’s OK," Jones said. "Also, I think it’s great they reduce the price of tuition, I’m pretty sure this will lead to an increase in enrollment.”
