FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What are Dispute Resolution Section Diversity Scholarships?
The New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) is committed to diversity in its membership, officers, staff, House of Delegates, Executive Committee, Sections and Committees and their respective leaders. Diversity is an inclusive concept, encompassing gender, race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age and disability. We are a richer and more effective Association because of diversity, as it increases our Association’s strengths, capabilities and adaptability. Through increased diversity, our organization can more effectively address societal and member needs with the varied perspectives experiences, knowledge, information and understanding inherent in a diverse relationship.
Each year, the Dispute Resolution Section of the NY State Bar Association (“DRS”) will award a maximum of 5 mediation training scholarships and 5 arbitration training scholarships, to encourage greater opportunities for diverse individual in the field of dispute resolution.
What do DRS Diversity Scholarship Recipients Receive?
The scholarships give recipients the following benefits:
- Enrollment at no charge in either (1) three-day Mediation Training offered annually by DRS or (2) the three-day Arbitration Training offered annually by DRS
- Free one-year membership in the DRS (and the NY State Bar Association if recipient is not a member), entitling recipients to a host of benefits including
- Opportunity to join and become active in one or more Section committees
- Discounted registration fees for DRS programs and events
- Receiving the DRS publication “The Dispute Resolution Lawyer; ”
Who is Eligible for the Scholarships?
Anyone who is a member of NYSBA and admitted to the bar in New York may apply for the scholarships. Preference will be given to minority and female applicants.
What are the Criteria for Awarding the Scholarships?
Applicants will be judged based on their professional background and experience, and demonstrated interest in contributing to or promoting diversity in the field of dispute resolution.
Is Financial Hardship a Requirement for Receiving a Scholarship?
The application asks whether applicants have financial need, which will be one of the factors taken into account by the DRS in awarding the scholarships.
Any eligible attorney with genuine financial need may apply to the NYSBA for tuition assistance to attend programs. Contact Holly Hirsch for more information.
How do I apply for the Diversity Scholarship?
If you have questions, please contact Simone Smith: [email protected]
Application deadline is January 25, 2023.