Lathrop GPM LLP Launches 1L Diversity Opportunity Program
Awardees will receive a stipend at the start of their 1L summer and opportunities for future retention stipends, up to $20,000 total.
KANSAS CITY (June 20, 2023) — Lathrop GPM LLP is proud to announce the launch of the firm’s 1L Diversity Opportunity Program designed to attract and retain historically underrepresented groups in the legal field, including people of color, with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. The stipend, up to $20,000, will be awarded to one first-year law student each year and distributed in annual payments, providing the student returns to the firm as a 2L summer associate, then receives and accepts an employment offer from the firm following law school graduation.
"We are excited to offer this opportunity to promising law students from diverse backgrounds," said Vanessa Vaughn West, the firm’s Director of Diversity & Inclusion. "Our hope is that this program will broaden our recruitment pipeline, build firm loyalty, and provide greater access to opportunity, while further improving diversity at the firm."
To be eligible for the 1L Diversity Opportunity Program, candidates must receive and accept an offer from the firm for one of its diversity 1L positions. First-year law student candidates must be in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school, demonstrate a record of academic and professional achievement, and contribute meaningfully to diversity and inclusion through their involvements in law school or other community efforts and initiatives.
Applicants submit a brief video in which they answer questions that address community involvement, firm DEI involvement and the impact of DEI on their lives. Those interested in applying for a 1L summer associate position or learning more about the 1L Diverse Opportunity Program are encouraged to email Vanessa Vaughn West, director of diversity and inclusion at vanessa.vaughnwest@lathropgpm.com.