UB Law School Dean Praises Supreme Court Ruling

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The dean of the University at Buffalo Law School, the only law school in the State University of New York system, today praised the Supreme Court's affirmation of the University of Michigan Law School admissions policy, and said the ruling supports the "mission of inclusion," that is central to the ideals of a public law school.

"As New York State's public law school, it's important that we are open to all qualified applicants because it is appropriate that we reflect the diversity of New York State," said Nils Olsen, who has served as dean of the UB Law School since 1998.

"It is our mission to provide access for all qualified applicants who might not otherwise be able to study law in New York State," he added. "We're extremely happy with the Supreme Court's decision."

Olsen said he has seen first hand the positive effects of diversity in the law school classroom.

"You want to offer students the best learning environment possible," he said. "When you enroll people with a variety of life experiences and backgrounds you give students the opportunity to experience different perspectives and ideas and put them in context in their professional lives."

According to Olsen, the UB Law School admits about 250 new students each year and has a total enrollment of 750 students. The school's admission committee reviews each applicant individually, and considers a variety of factors when offering admission.

The UB Law School was founded in 1887. Combining legal theory with practical applications, the law school is characterized by an emphasis on interdisciplinary study and public service.