DE&I Committee Hosts Guest Speaker, Yvette Pappoe
by Kaitlin Gagnon
On January 24, 2024, Professor Yvette Pappoe joined Milberg to discuss Intentionality and Inclusion as part of Milberg’s DE&I Committee Speaker series.
Professor Pappoe engaged the Milberg team in a stimulating discussion surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion trends in the legal industry and provided insight into how law firms can build more inclusive cultures- from recruitment to retention.
Professor Pappoe unpacked the comprehensive concept of DE&I as “broader than race, gender, and sexuality” as it extends to “accessibility, acceptance, and belonging.” The conversation covered the significant underrepresentation of people of color in the legal profession and the important role that firm culture plays in attracting and retaining diverse candidates. Professor Pappoe spoke to the importance of dedicating sustained resources over time to firmwide DE&I initiatives; this involves putting intentionality into every step of the employment process, from job descriptions and qualification postings to ensuring diverse candidates have the resources they need to thrive once hired, such as mentorships and professional development opportunities.
Professor Pappoe emphasized the importance of appreciating people’s “vastly different life experiences” as a means of building a truly inclusive workplace culture.
Yvette Pappoe writes on anti-discrimination law with a focus on the intersection of race and gender and how the legal system tackles those complexities in administering justice. Her scholarship examines the ways in which historically disadvantaged minority groups are impacted by existing social and legal structures.
Professor Pappoe currently teaches Torts, Advanced Torts, and Professional Responsibility at the University of The District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law (UDC Law). She is admitted to practice in Maryland and the District of Columbia.
Milberg is grateful for Professor Pappoe’s time and willingness to share her insightful reflections with the firm, as it strives to foster a more diverse and inclusive culture within an equitable, compassionate workplace.
To learn more about the esteemed professor, lawyer, and entrepreneur, visit yvettepappoe.com.
