WLA Mentor Program Kicks-Off

November 4, 2003

On Wednesday, November 5, the Women's Law Association (WLA) of Capital University Law School will kick-off its Professional Mentor Program. Over twenty female graduates have volunteered to act as mentors for women law students. The program provides an opportunity for upper class Capital students active in the Women's Law Association to network with successful women lawyers in the community.

"While our recent incoming law school classes are approximately 50 percent women, women still face unique challenges in the professional setting," said Susan Gilles, professor of law and WLA advisor.

For example, according to a 2002 report by the National Association for Law Placement, women comprise almost 50 percent of law school students nationwide, yet they only make-up 16 percent of partners in law firms.

Maren Aikey, president of WLA, said that the mentors are a good resource for current students. "Each mentor is asked to meet once with her mentee in a professional setting to discuss career options, review a resume, or offer professional insight and to remain available, as needed, for ongoing contact with her mentee."

Students participating in the Professional Mentor Program are encouraged to serve as mentors in the future. "This encourages a sense of service and leadership to the profession and future women lawyers," said Deborah Mandt, vice president and chair of the WLA Professional Mentor Program.

For more information about the program, or if you are interested in mentoring a Capital woman law student, contact Deborah Mandt, vice president and chair of the WLA Professional Mentor Program at dmandt@law.capital.edu , or at (614) 722-5452.

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