Colorado Law is proud to have been one of the earliest law schools in the nation to admit ethnically and racially diverse lawyers. Inclusiveness and diversity are not just popular catch phrases to us. We have a strong and continuing commitment to inclusiveness and diversity, as evidenced by the first action in Our Vision statement:
Provide a supportive and diverse educational and scholarly community in a place that inspires vigorous pursuit of ideas, critical analysis, contemplation, and civic engagement in order to advance knowledge about the law in an open, just society.
To achieve this vision, we support a number of law school initiatives that further our inclusiveness and diversity. In addition, we are actively involved in several legal community initiatives. Finally, we work hard to cultivate career opportunities for our diverse students and alumni.
Meet the Team
Violeta Chapin, J.D.
Associate Dean for Community and Culture, and Clinical Professor of Law
Associate Dean Violeta Chapin directs the Immigration Clinic at Colorado Law, and has been a member of the law faculty since 2009. As an immigration and criminal defense attorney, Prof. Chapin has long thought about what it means to belong in our society. She brings that perspective to her role in helping to build a truly welcoming and inclusive community at the law school, for all of our students, staff and faculty.
Fernando R. Guzmán III, Ph.D.
Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence
Dr. Fernando Guzman is the Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence. Drawing on his extensive professional experience, Dean Guzman helps the law school further its commitment to embedding diversity, equity, and inclusiveness into the fabric of the law school at all levels.
Yesenia Delgado, M.P.A.
Director of Events and Inclusive Programming
Council for Racial Justice and Equity
Anti-Racism and Representation Initiative
In 2020, former Dean S. James Anaya spearheaded the Anti-Racism and Representation Initiative, which aims to confront racism and its persistent effects around us and to advance the representation and genuine welcoming of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) and other marginalized groups within the University of Colorado Law School community and the legal profession.
The initiative lives on today through a range of ongoing programs and actions. The Anti-Racism and Representation Initiative was designed to promote bold, practical, and effective steps to confront racism and advance greater inclusion.