Rufus Cormier Diversity Fellowship Program
At Baker Botts, we are committed to the recruitment, retention and development of exceptional attorneys and law students. We recognize the value of diverse perspectives and the integral role they play in the continued growth and success of our firm.
The fellowship is named after retired Baker Botts partner Rufus Cormier, who in 1981 became the first African American partner at a major corporate law firm in the State of Texas. Cormier retired from Baker Botts in 2013 after 39 years with the firm.
The fellowship is open to all law students currently enrolled in an accredited law school, regardless of race, color, religion, citizenship, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, military service, disability, or any other characteristic or condition protected by applicable law. Selected candidates will be eligible to receive up to $40,000 in stipends throughout the duration of their participation in the program, in addition to a salaried Summer Associate position.
Selection Criteria
- Academic Achievement
- Demonstrated Leadership Attributes
- Demonstrated Commitment to Promoting Diversity in the Legal Profession
- Obstacles Overcome in Pursuing a Legal Career
- Long-term Interest in Practicing Law in Austin, Dallas, Houston, New York, Palo Alto, San Francisco, or Washington, D.C.