ImeIme Umana Elected President of Harvard Law Review in 2017
ImeIme Umana became the first Black woman to lead the Harvard Law Review in 2017. Her election marked a major moment in the history of one of the most respected legal journals in the United States.
The Harvard Law Review was founded in 1887. For 130 years, no Black woman had ever held the top position. Umana, a Nigerian-American from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, broke that tradition when she was chosen as the 131st president of the organization.
A Prestigious Role in Legal Academia
As president, Umana took on the highest student position at Harvard Law School. She led over 90 editors and permanent staff members. Her job included overseeing publications, working with top legal writers, and leading editorial decisions.
Past presidents of the Harvard Law Review include former U.S. President Barack Obama. He became the first Black person to lead the Law Review in 1990. Umana’s achievement added another historic milestone to that legacy.
A Competitive Selection Process
Becoming president of the Harvard Law Review is not easy. Candidates go through a tough process. They must answer questions from fellow editors, complete writing tests, and participate in mock editorial tasks.
In 2017, the field of candidates included 12 students. Eight were women, and eight were people of color. Umana’s leadership qualities stood out. Michael Zuckerman, the outgoing president, described her as “brilliant, thoughtful, and caring.”
Academic Background and Leadership Experience
Before law school, Umana attended Harvard College. She studied Government and African American Studies. As a student in Lowell House, she was also president of the Institute of Politics.
Her background in both government and race studies helped shape her understanding of justice and leadership. These experiences gave her the skills needed to lead such a prestigious organization.
A Step Toward Inclusion in Legal Spaces
Umana’s win came as the Harvard Law Review made efforts to become more inclusive. It had started accepting editors from more diverse backgrounds, reflecting wider changes in the legal world.
Zuckerman noted that women and people of color had long been underrepresented in legal fields. He called Umana’s election “an important and encouraging step toward a richer and more inclusive legal conversation.”
Recognition and Praise from Peers
Colleagues praised Umana for her intelligence and leadership. Zuckerman said the publication was in “phenomenally good hands” with her at the helm. He also expressed excitement about the direction she would take the Law Review.
Her election brought hope to many aspiring law students, especially young Black women who rarely see themselves in such powerful roles.
