About the Center

Thought leadership

The Meltzer Center seeks to advance research and thought leadership that is both legally sound and universal in its application. Its current research focuses on three principal topics: (a) Navigating the legal and regulatory landscape for inclusion work; (b) Navigating conversations across social differences; and (c) Authenticity in the workplace.

In addition to conducting its own research, the center advances and disseminates the latest research by other scholars. Through its speaker series, the center highlights the work of four luminaries each year on topics ranging from implicit bias to artificial intelligence to neurodiversity. The series has welcomed Supreme Court justices, scholars in a variety of academic disciplines, and leading figures in the law and media. It attracts large and diverse audiences of students, faculty, alumni, inclusion practitioners, and members of the public.

Fostering an inclusive Law School community

The center enables students to integrate diversity and inclusion research into their academic careers through directed research credits and a periodically offered innovative year-long simulation course, Leadership, Diversity, and Inclusion. The course aims to impart the knowledge and tools to shape inclusive workplaces of the future, as well as the skills to thrive in workplaces as they are today. It examines the conceptual underpinning of diversity and inclusion ideals and concepts such as “implicit bias,” “stereotype threat,” and “covering.” It also includes a practicum on topics such as written communication, negotiation, public speaking, time management, and professional etiquette, taught through a combination of traditional classroom instruction, guest presentations by leading practitioners, and skill-based exercises with feedback and opportunities for improvement.

In addition to providing formal research and learning opportunities, the center also engages students through a student fellows program and co-sponsored events with student organizations.

Transforming the world beyond our community

Achieving belonging for people of all backgrounds is among the core issues of our time. Many institutions are grappling with how to advance fairness and equal opportunity. The center seeks to contribute to that national and international dialogue by sharing academic and tactical expertise.

The center has worked with a variety of prominent organizations within the United States and globally to develop and roll out cutting-edge, research-backed educational programs in live and digital formats.