Amplifying Student Voices

By preparing diverse, skilled leaders right now, SVUDL is ensuring a future where broader perspectives are reflected and represented at the highest levels of government and industry. Because they’re equipped with empathy and understanding, those future leaders will be able to unite people from all sides with respectful discussion. Part of that organizational core effort includes the SVUDL Legal Advisory Committee, and we are excited to welcome our newest member, attorney Jennifer Kim, currently an Associate in the Litigation Department of Davis Polk & Wardwell, LLP.

At Davis Polk, Jennifer’s pro bono work is a significant part of her practice. She was part of the team that represented the family of Eric Garner and police reform advocates in a judicial inquiry seeking transparency regarding Mr. Garner’s arrest and death in 2014. She is also currently a part of the team that represents three cities and a county in Colorado that were sued after enacting ordinances that ban assault weapons and high capacity magazines. Jennifer has also worked with Stop AAPI hate over the past two years, leading projects ranging from addressing systemic racism against the AAPI community to educational equity.

“Prior to becoming a lawyer, I was a Teach for America corps member and taught elementary school in East Harlem for five years. While a teacher, I saw firsthand the importance of amplifying student voices and empowering students through the use of their words. I incorporated Speech and Debate into my curriculum as a teacher and could see the benefit of public speaking even for younger students in subjects like history or science,” reflected Jennifer.

Please join us in welcoming Jennifer to SVUDL’s Legal Advisory Committee!