from Cori Parise, Director of Marketing and Communications
University of Pittsburgh | School of Law
The University of Pittsburgh School of Law is proud to announce the selection of five outstanding students as Herbst Scholars for the inaugural Herbst Scholars Program. The selected students represent Carlow University, Cheyney University, and Howard University.
This initiative, a collaboration between Pitt Law and Carlow University, allows college juniors, seniors, and recent graduates to take a free law school preparatory class, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in legal education and beyond.
The Herbst Scholars Program offers participants a rigorous 15-week in-person class at Pitt Law starting in January 2025. The curriculum, taught by Pitt Law professors, focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving, time management, and test-taking skills. Each participant is also paired with a current law school student mentor, ensuring they have guidance and support throughout their journey.
As part of the program, Herbst Scholars will prepare for and take the JD-Next law school learning exam, an innovative pathway to law school admission. In addition to the in-person class, these students will complete an 8-week online JD-Next exam training course in Spring 2025 to further enhance their readiness for the exam.
“We are thrilled to welcome these promising students to the Herbst Scholars Program,” said Dean Mary Crossley of Pitt Law. “Their diverse backgrounds and dedication to pursuing a legal education embody the mission of Pitt Law to foster excellence, innovation, and equity in legal education. This program exemplifies our commitment to preparing the next generation of legal professionals with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.”
“At Carlow University, we believe in empowering our students to break barriers and create meaningful change in the world. The Herbst Scholars Program exemplifies this mission by providing transformative opportunities for students to grow, lead, and thrive on their path to a legal career. We are proud to partner with Pitt Law in advancing diversity and access in the legal profession,” said Dr. Kathy Wilson Humphrey, PhD, President of Carlow University.
Accepted participants of the Herbst Scholars Program are also eligible for significant grant and scholarship funding upon admission to law school, further removing barriers to access and fostering greater diversity within the legal profession. Pitt Law alumnus Fredric C. Nelson (JD ’70) helped shape the vision for the Program and directed a gift from The Herbst Foundation to support its creation.
For more information about the Herbst Scholars Program, contact admitlaw@pitt.edu.
