10 Cornell Law School Notable Alumni

By | June 28, 2023

Cornell Law School, located in Ithaca, New York, is one of the most prestigious law schools in the United States. Cornell Law School offers a rigorous and comprehensive legal education, with a focus on practical skills and experiential learning. Students have access to a wide range of clinics and internships, as well as opportunities to study abroad and participate in moot court competitions.

The school is also known for its strong faculty, who are widely respected for their scholarship and expertise in a variety of legal fields. The school has produced several notable alumni who have gone on to become prominent figures in the legal profession, politics, and other fields.

Here are 10 Cornell Law School Notable Alumni:

1. Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Justice Ginsburg, who passed away in 2020 was a proud alumni of Cornell University in the year 1954. She was a trailblazer in the field of law and a champion for gender equality. Her tenure as a Supreme Court Justice spanned almost three decades, during which she made significant contributions to the advancement of justice and equal rights. As the second woman ever to be appointed to the high court, she paved the way for many other women to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

2. Janet Reno

Janet Reno’s legacy as the first female Attorney General of the United States is a testament to her dedication and hard work. A graduate of Cornell Law School, Reno’s career in the legal profession was a remarkable journey of achievements and milestones. She was a trailblazer for women in the field and a powerful advocate for justice and equality.

Her contributions to society, particularly in protecting the rights of women and children, will forever be remembered. Despite facing challenges and opposition throughout her career, Reno’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law and serving the American people is a shining example of what can be accomplished with determination and perseverance.

3. Michael Mukasey:

Michael Mukasey is a notable figure in American politics, having served as the Attorney General of the United States from 2007 to 2009 under President George W. Bush. Graduating from Cornell Law School in 1967, Mukasey’s background in law and politics made him a strong candidate for the position.

During his tenure as Attorney General, he was known for his tough stance on national security issues and his efforts to combat terrorism. Mukasey’s legal expertise and dedication to upholding the law have made him a respected figure in the legal community, and his contributions to American politics will be remembered for years to come.

4. Richard Cordray

Richard Cordray is a well-known figure in the field of law and finance. A graduate of Cornell Law School in 1986, Cordray has had a distinguished career in public service. He has served as the Ohio Attorney General and as the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

As the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Cordray was instrumental in implementing several measures to protect consumers from financial fraud and abuse. He has been recognized for his efforts in this regard and is widely respected in the legal and financial communities. Despite his achievements, Cordray remains humble and committed to serving the public interest.

5. Keith Ellison:

Keith Ellison is a well-known American politician who currently serves as the Attorney General of Minnesota. Prior to his current position, Ellison was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing Minnesota’s 5th congressional district. He is also a Cornell Law School alumnus, having graduated from the prestigious institution in 1990.

Ellison has been a vocal advocate for social justice issues throughout his career, including fighting against police brutality and advocating for workers’ rights. His legal expertise and political experience have made him a respected and influential figure in both the legal and political communities.

6. Harold Hongju Koh:

Harold Hongju Koh is a highly accomplished legal scholar and former government official. He currently serves as a professor at Yale Law School, where he has been a member of the faculty since 1985. Prior to his academic career, Koh worked as a legal adviser to the U.S. Department of State, where he was responsible for providing guidance on international law and human rights issues.

He earned his law degree from Cornell Law School in 1980, and has since become widely recognized as an expert in the fields of international law and human rights. Koh’s contributions to legal scholarship and public service have earned him numerous accolades and honors over the course of his career.

7. William Weld:

William Weld is a notable figure in Massachusetts politics and law. He served as the governor of Massachusetts and as a U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts. Weld is also a distinguished graduate of Cornell Law School, earning his degree in 1970.

With his impressive background in law and public service, Weld has made significant contributions to his community and the legal field. His accomplishments have earned him respect and recognition among his peers, as well as the public.

8. Robert Morgenthau:

Robert Morgenthau was a prominent figure in the legal sector, having served as the Manhattan District Attorney for an unprecedented 34 years – making him the longest-serving district attorney in New York City history. Morgenthau’s tenure was marked by his unwavering commitment to justice, as well as his efforts to combat organized crime, public corruption, and white-collar crime.

He was widely respected for his ethics and integrity, and his contributions to the justice system were widely recognized. Morgenthau’s legal career began after graduating from Cornell Law School in 1948, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for public service. His legacy remains an inspiration to many in the legal profession.

9. Charles Evans Hughes:

Charles Evans Hughes was a prominent figure in American politics, having served as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court as well as the Republican nominee for president in 1916. He had an impressive educational background, having graduated from Cornell Law School in 1884.

Hughes’ legal knowledge and experience played a significant role in his political career, and he was widely respected for his intellect and integrity. Despite losing the presidential election to Woodrow Wilson, Hughes continued to be a respected figure in American public life, and his contributions to the legal profession and politics continue to be remembered to this day.

10. Andrew Dickson White:

Andrew Dickson White is one of the co-founders of Cornell University and went on to become the university’s first president. White had a distinguished academic career, having also graduated from Yale University and studied in several European universities before returning to the United States. He also had a keen interest in politics and diplomacy, serving as a U.S. diplomat in several countries.

However, his most significant contribution was to Cornell, where he helped establish the university’s progressive and inclusive culture. White’s legacy and influence can still be felt in the university’s values and educational philosophy.

These notable alumni are just a few examples of the many successful individuals who have graduated from Cornell Law School. The school’s rigorous curriculum, distinguished faculty, and commitment to excellence have helped to produce some of the most accomplished lawyers and legal scholars in the country.

Source : lawschoolsinfo.com

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