Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Robbins Schwartz has pioneered defining the practice of education law as a singular discipline. As we continue to expand our services, we stay involved in the ongoing development and evolution of the law.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee Announcement

The diversity amongst our attorneys and employees has always been something that Robbins Schwartz prides itself on and has valued as a diverse workplace enhances our practice and better serves clients throughout Illinois.

Yet there has always been more to do. Starting in 2020, the Firm made a significant commitment to not only increasing the diversity amongst Robbins Schwartz’s employees, but also making sure to focus on the equity and inclusion components so that our employees feel part of one team and have meaningful opportunities for growth and advancement.

To that end, Robbins Schwartz is pleased to announce its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Committee consisting of:

Laura Sinars, Partner
Zaria Udeh, Partner
Matthew Gardner, Partner
Shari Leming, Director of Firm Operations
Aaron Kacel, Associate
Maritza Guevara, Marketing Manager
Flor Carrillo, Human Resources Generalist

This committee, comprised of a diverse group of attorneys and other professionals in different areas of the Firm, will lead Robbins Schwartz’s DEI efforts. The DEI Leadership Committee will provide guidance to the Firm’s management about strategies for continuing to improve the diversity, inclusion, and equity within our firm, and will also lead various subcommittees related to recruitment and retention, cultural events and awareness, and scholarships and community involvement.

Introducing the Robbins Schwartz DEI Compliance Team

By Samantha Kelly | Oct 4, 2023

Challenges to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices are currently sweeping the nation. Our newly formed DEI Compliance Team guides employers of all kinds through this ever evolving and challenging legal landscape. Read more here.

Magnet School’s Student Admissions Policy Revised, in Part, to Increase Diversity, Faces Legal Challenges and Might be the Next DEI Case Before the Supreme Court

By Samantha Kelly | Sep 13, 2023

A group of Virginia area parents asked the Supreme Court to hear their complaints regarding their recent revision surrounding the student admissions process. Read more here.

Supreme Court’s Student Admissions Decision Opens the Door to Lawsuits Challenging Employer DEI Initiatives

By Samantha Kelly | Sep 1, 2023

Employer DEI initiatives are facing challenges in light of the Supreme Court's recent student admissions decision. Read more here.

The Departments of Justice and Education Issue Guidance for Higher Education Institutions on Lawful Diversity and Equity Measures

By Samantha Kelly | Aug 18, 2023

The United States Departments of Justice and Education released written guidance to assist colleges and universities in understanding the decision to invalidate the use of race in student admissions. Read more here.

Southeast Asian Heritage Month

By Samantha Kelly | Jul 28, 2023

Learn more abut Southeast Asian Heritage Month here.

2023 NAPIPA Leadership Conference

By Samantha Kelly | Jul 24, 2023

Robbins Schwartz is excited to sponsor this year's National Asian Pacific Islander Prosecutors Association (NAPIPA) annual conference. NAPIPA is a professional non-profit organization dedicated to promoting justice and advancing the interests of prosecutors of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage.