Law School Dean Recognized Nationally for Extraordinary Leadership

Dean Pernell honored for Commitment to Diversity

December 21, 2004

(DeKalb, IL) -- Dean LeRoy Pernell of the Northern Illinois University College of Law received the Extraordinary Leadership Award presented at the Second National People of Color Legal Scholarship Conference held in Washington, D.C. earlier this year.  Dean Pernell was recognized for his participation and support of the national conference.

Dean Pernell has long been recognized as a leader in diversity.  It is at the core of his educational philosophy and that focus is expressed throughout the NIU College of Law.  As a result, the NIU College of Law was recently ranked #3 in the nation by the Princeton Review in its 2005 ranking of law schools, for having the most diverse faculty in the nation. 

According to Dean Pernell, “Achieving diversity within the faculty is most often a direct result of leadership commitment and clear direction. Bringing together students and faculty from all walks of life enhances the overall educational experience.  The variety of experiences, viewpoints, and personal philosophies encourage debate, learning, and respect.”

“Dean Pernell has been a treasure to the academy and this community.  In sum, his contributions are immeasurable,” commented Alfreda Robinson, Associate Dean of The George Washington University Law School and National Chair of the Conference.  Dean Pernell has also published an article entitled Deans of Color Speak Out: Unique Voice in a Unique Role published by the Boston College Third World Law Journal written in connection with his role as chair of a first - ever panel of minority deans conducted at the First National People of Color Legal Scholarship Conference held in 1999.  He returned to the topic at this year’s conference, participating again on the “Deans of Color Speak Out” panel.

In addition to 45% percent of NIU Law faculty being people of color, the law school faculty is also 40% women.  Commitment to diversity is also manifested in its student body, as nearly one-third are students of color. “As Dean, I feel that I have the ability to act in a leadership role that serves to counter-balance reluctance and uncertainty regarding diversity commitment, while at the same time providing a different cultural perspective,” says Pernell.

The National People of Color Legal Scholarship Conference is held every five years.  Organized to allow national legal scholars of color an opportunity to meet and discuss critical and timely topics, over one hundred panels, workshops and meetings were held at this year’s conference, hosted by The George Washington University School of Law in October. 

 
For more information, contact:
Melody Mitchell
Director, Alumni Events & Public Relations
815/753-9655l