Presenter
Presented by Ms. Carlisle
Body
Whereas, Carl Cooper, by utilizing his progressive vision and effective leadership, made possible the development and signing of the Allegheny County Bar Association's Diversity Initiative Commitment. This commitment aims to significantly increase the diversity of lawyers who practice in Allegheny County and was signed on July 1st by 25 top law firms, government agencies, corporate law departments, and two law schools; and
Whereas, in January of 2003, Carl Cooper joined the law firm of Kirkpatrick and Lockhart as its chief diversity officer, and in that short time has already instituted changes in firm operations that ensure that minorities and women have the opportunity to advance in the profession and that they do not find themselves at disadvantage; and
Whereas, Mr. Cooper has contributed to the education and preparation of countless lawyers as he served as a teaching fellow at Harvard Law School, worked as a faculty member of the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, and enhanced the mentoring program at Kirkpatrick and Lockhart; and
Whereas, Carl Cooper devotes his time, effort, and skills to several administrative bodies that facilitate high quality in the practice of law; he sits on the Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and chairs the Allegheny County Bar Association's Committee on Opportunities for Minorities in the Legal Profession.
Title
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does commend the work of Carl Cooper in promoting equality, diversity, and quality in the practice of law in Allegheny county and the state, which allows for wiser and more just actions be performed in the service of the law.