Diversity Leadership Academy

We offer two annual award-winning Diversity Leadership Academies — one for law students and one for mid-level associates — that develop and empower the next generation of lawyers and leaders.

The Student Diversity Leadership Academy is for first-year law students and provides strategies for success in law school and beyond, insight into practicing at a global law firm, and community building opportunities with Latham lawyers and peers who share a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. All first-year law students interested in our US-based or London offices are eligible to and encouraged to apply.

Professional Development and Training

The Student Diversity Leadership Academy is a substantive professional development and training program providing first-year law students with the information and skills needed to successfully navigate the law firm interview and hiring process and to transition from law student to practicing attorney. Students will participate in interactive seminars on a variety of topics, including diversity, equity, and inclusion, pro bono, and effective communication to support professional development. Sessions will be led by Latham lawyers, many of whom serve in leadership positions at the firm (including members of our Executive, Recruiting, and Diversity Leadership Committees), as well as external speakers who are subject matter experts in their fields.

Networking and Building Community

Participants will join an exclusive cohort of Diversity Leadership Academy attendees, providing an invaluable opportunity to network and build relationships with like-minded peers from the top law schools in the US.

The Student Diversity Leadership Academy also offers a unique opportunity to develop professional connections with our lawyers and firm leaders through interactive seminars, discussion groups, and social activities. These connections are particularly valuable for students interested in meeting Latham lawyers and for learning more about Latham and Big Law in general.

Mentoring

Through facilitated sessions during and after the Academy, each participant will have the opportunity to find and build long-lasting mentor relationships with Latham attorneys from around the world. 

Selection Criteria

The application process is open to first-year law students of all backgrounds at an ABA-accredited school, regardless of race, color, religion, citizenship, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, military service, disability, or any other characteristic or condition protected by applicable law.

In addition to our general selection criteria for Summer Program opportunities, Latham’s Recruiting Committee will evaluate all applications and consider the following factors:

• Demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in their communities and/or in the legal profession
• Obstacles or challenges (financial or otherwise) encountered in advancing career objectives
• Life experiences that have shaped values (including a commitment to DEI) and professional goals

Personal Statement Requirement

• In addition to our general application requirements for Summer Program opportunities, we require a personal statement (500 to 1,000 words) addressing your resilience and tenacity, how you will contribute to Latham’s inclusive culture and diverse community, and/or experiences that have shaped your commitment to DEI in the legal profession.

Application Links, Dates, and Deadlines

If you are interested in one of our US offices, you must apply through our application for the 2025 1L Diversity Scholars Program to express interest in the Student Diversity Leadership Academy.

Please note we do not have 1L employment opportunities in London. However, you may apply to the Student Diversity Leadership Academy, which is a great way to get to know the office for future 2L opportunities.