
The William S. Richardson School of Law in Honolulu, Hawai'i is exceptional both for its location and its commitment to pluralism and diversity within the law, society, and academia. As the only ABA-accredited law school in the Pacific-Asia region, the school offers outstanding teaching and first-rate professional training by a talented and very accessible faculty.
The student body at the School of Law is the most diverse in the nation and represents over 124 undergraduate schools. The curriculum offers the traditional Juris Doctor degree as well as a nationally-ranked Environmental Law Program, and a concentration in Pacific Asian Legal Studies. In 2003, the School introduced a one-year LL.M. program that gives foreign law graduates a strong foundation in American law.
Unusual access to the legal and local communities also makes studying in Hawai'i special. Professionals in our legal community-from sitting judges to attorneys in public and private practice-actively embrace the school's educational mission. Whether they are hosting moot court tryouts, judging appellate advocacy arguments, or teaching as adjunct professors, members of the Hawai'i bar bring practical real-world legal expertise; and a spirit of generosity and friendliness to the School that demonstrates some of the finest qualities Hawai'i has to offer.
I chose to attend the William S. Richardson School of Law because I want to better understand the legal developments that affect me, both as a citizen, and as a member of the native Hawaiian community. I chose this school because I felt that there would be an opportunity to focus on native rights, civil rights, and human rights within the context of Hawai'i's past, present, and future.
IOKONA BAKER, CLASS OF 2006