Cole Schotz Announces Recipient of 2021 Diversity Scholarship

Cole Schotz P.C. is pleased to announce Syracuse University College of Law student Matthew Mayers as the recipient of the firm’s 2021 Diversity Scholarship.

Each year, Cole Schotz recognizes the achievements of a rising second-year, full-time law student by presenting a one-time $5,000 scholarship. Candidates are considered based on their demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity in the legal profession, academic achievement, and involvement in community services.

Mr. Mayers was inspired to pursue a law degree after witnessing firsthand the challenges residents from rural communities face when seeking health care and social services. He developed a desire to resolve some of these issues of distance and quality of services in rural areas, ultimately seeking admission to law school in a rural area with programs aligned with his interests in public interest through the lens of disability, elder care, and health care law.

These interests further developed during his employment with a Legal Aid firm. While serving as a caseworker for inmates at correctional facilities, who were diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and chronic mental health issues, Mr. Mayers witnessed firsthand that the treatment offered to these inmates was often poor to nonexistent. Through these combined experiences, Matthew plans to use his degree to help reshape health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Mr. Mayers graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science in human development and also earned a Master of Public Administration in health policy.

“Matthew’s strong academic record and proven commitment to underserved communities, as exemplified by his work and volunteering experience, makes him extremely well-qualified to receive this year’s diversity scholarship,” said Rab Nalavala, co-chair of the firm’s Diversity Committee and member of the Real Estate, Real Estate Special Opportunities, and Construction Services Departments. “We took particular note of his work for people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, incarcerated individuals, as well as elderly and immigrant populations, which further demonstrated his passion for legislative advocacy, legal research, and pro bono services.”

Cole Schotz is committed to the advancement of diversity in the legal profession. In additional to the award of the Cole Schotz Diversity Scholarship, the firm also works with the New Jersey Law Firm Group, a non-profit corporation made up of law firms, law schools, and public agencies, to promote inclusiveness and diversity in the legal profession.