1Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law welcomed four judges from the Los Angeles Superior Court Diversity Committee for a panel discussion with students on March 21.

The committee aims to increase diversity among court officers by encouraging members of underrepresented communities to pursue appointment or election to the bench. The panelists included the Honorable Nicole Bershon of Los Angeles Superior Court; the Honorable Melissa N. Widdifield of Los Angeles Superior Court; the Honorable Richard Lee of Orange County Superior Court; and the Honorable Maria Hernandez of Orange County Superior Court.

The panel, moderated by Fowler School of Law Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Administration Jayne Kacer, advised students on the importance of networking for both immediate employment purposes and for future goals, the benefits of strong legal writing skills, and the importance of maintaining a good professional reputation. Panelists also answered questions about preparing for a career on the bench and the qualities of a good judge.