Diversity in Law Scholarship Aspiring Attorneys

Plunkett Cooney Laurel

F. McGiffert Diversity Equity & Inclusion Scholarship

Active law school students are invited to apply for the  Plunkett Cooney Laurel

F. McGiffert Diversity Equity & Inclusion Scholarship. This year, the firm will award three (3) $2,500 diversity scholarships to the individuals who submit the most compelling essays in response to the firm's prompt. There is no cost to apply. See below for details.

Application Period Opens: Monday, December 1, 2025

Final date to receive applications: Friday, January 30, 2026, 5:00 pm

Eligibility: Any student currently enrolled in an ABA‑credited law school

Essay Prompt: Describe a situation where you had to confront your own biases or privileges. How did this experience change your worldview and how do you see it impacting your career in the law.

Essay Requirements: Maximum of two pages, double‑spaced, 12‑point font, PDF format

How to Submit: Submit your essay response to the above prompt along with your verification of law school enrollment, resume and background information via our scholarship application website. The website can be accessed by clicking here (link removed).

Questions? Contact Jennifer Barczak at ;

Plagiarism Notice: It is understood that plagiarism is never acceptable, and that one's original work should always be presented in academic and business pursuits. To this end, applicants are advised that Plunkett Cooney will utilize online plagiarism and AI tracking tools as part of its essay review process.

Award Notification: Scholarship winners will be contacted by Friday, February 27. At approximately the same time, the firm will issue a press release to publicly congratulate the scholarship recipients.

About Plunkett Cooney: Established in 1913, Plunkett Cooney is one of the Midwest's oldest and most accomplished law firms. With approximately 130 attorneys, we represent an array of public‑ and private‑sector clients in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. The firm's practice includes all aspects of litigation and business law services. To learn more about Plunkett Cooney and the firm's commitment to DE&I, .