May 15, 2000, Washington, D.C. - Law professors across America believe that diversity in the classroom enhances their ability to deepen law students' understanding of law and the impact of the legal system on our society. A recent study of 1,000 law school faculty in 182 law schools accredited by the American Bar Association provides strong empirical evidence of the importance that law faculty attach to racial and ethnic diversity in their classrooms. The Association of American Law Schools conducted the study. "Creating a diverse law school enrollment and enhancing the climate for all students at the nation's law schools are top priorities for more than three-quarters of all respondents", says Carl Monk, AALS Executive Director. Law professors view diversity in the student and faculty population as particularly important to the mission of their law schools. Additional findings include:

• Over 90% of faculty surveyed agreed that neither the quality of the law school nor the quality of students admitted has suffered from diversity. Teaching standards and student evaluation procedures have not been adjusted in response to increased diversity.

• A majority of respondents agree that diversity is important for developing critical thinking and leadership skills.

• Approximately three-quarters of law faculty believe diversity is important in exposing students to new perspectives through discussions of racial/ethnic issues in the classroom.

• At least 88% of law professors surveyed say they are well prepared to teach and are comfortable teaching in a diverse environment.

• Faculty respondents believe that diversity has substantial benefits for all students.