Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
As defined in our mission statement, the McBrayer law firm remains committed to the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. The McBrayer law firm has created several initiatives to promote these principles within the firm and to substantiate our dedication to them. These efforts are spearheaded by our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, currently chaired by Member Kathryn Eckert and including members of firm ownership, attorneys, and administrative staff. Some of our initiatives are discussed below.
Midsize Mansfield Rule Certification
In 2022, McBrayer applied for certification under the Midsize Mansfield Rule. This program is designed to increase the representation of diverse lawyers in the firm makeup and leadership by “broadening the pool of women, LGBTQ+ lawyers, lawyers with disabilities, and/or racial/ethnic minority lawyers who are considered for entry-level and lateral attorney job openings, leadership opportunities, equity partner promotions, and opportunities to connect with clients.”
McBrayer has joined the 2022-2023 Midsize Mansfield Rule cohort, and will undergo an 18-month process to achieve compliance with rule.
The McBrayer Visitorship
In partnership with the University of Kentucky, McBrayer has created a visitorship program to support an incoming UK Law student with an immersive visiting experience. This individual receives assistance with arranging accommodation in Lexington and transportation to and from the office, as well as a stipend for participation in the program. The McBrayer Visitor spends two weeks immersed in every aspect of our law firm and government affairs office.
The collaboration is part of the law school’s Bridging the Gap to Success initiative that aims to enhance not only diversity and inclusion in the legal profession but also opportunities for success for lawyers of color.
The McBrayer Fellowships
1. The University of Louisville McBrayer Fellowship
In partnership with the University of Louisville, McBrayer offers merit-based fellowships to first year law students who are from historically underrepresented groups, including, but not limited to, African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, LGBTQ+, and multiracial students.
These students will be paired with both a Member and an Associate as mentors throughout their law education, they will take part in a paid summer internship between their 1L and 2L years, and they will be Summer Associates upon conclusion of their 2L year. Our hope is that these individuals will consider full-time employment with us upon graduation.
2. The University of Kentucky McBrayer Diversity and Equity Fellowship
In partnership with the University of Kentucky, McBrayer offers merit-based fellowships to first year law students who support the compelling interest and benefits of a diverse legal profession.
These students will be paired with both a Member and an Associate as mentors throughout their law education, they will take part in a four-week paid internship opportunity primarily in the Lexington office between their 1L and 2L years, they will be offered an optional four-week paid faculty research assistant position at the UK Rosenberg College of Law during the summer between their 1L and 2L years, and they will be considered for a Summer Associate position in one of the McBrayer offices upon conclusion of their 2L year. Our hope is that these individuals will consider full-time employment with us upon graduation.
