An Open Letter to My Fellow Faculty Members
As we reflect on the outcome of the recent presidential election, I know that many of us are feeling discouraged, uncertain, or even disheartened by the challenges our society faces.
It’s natural to feel the weight of these moments, especially when the results seem to run counter to the values of justice, equity, and dignity that we hold dear. Yet, I want to take a moment to remind you of the incredible power and privilege we have as educators.
Our role in the lives of our students is not just to impart knowledge. We have the honor and responsibility to inspire and guide them through moments of uncertainty.
We have the privilege of shaping the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and changemakers—those who will rise to meet the challenges of our time and continue the fight for the principles we believe in. Our influence extends far beyond the classroom, and the mentorship and wisdom we offer can equip our students to navigate this ever-changing world with resilience, purpose, and vision.
While the road ahead may be uncertain and the polarization of politics remains tense, our ability to impact the future remains unwavering.
We are educators.
Through our guidance, we have the power to remind students of the profound role they will play in shaping the future.
As faculty, we provide not only academic knowledge but the moral and intellectual tools to confront the challenges before us.
In the spirit of solidarity and hope, I want to share with you the message I sent to my own students this morning, to remind them of their potential as future lawyers to shape the future of our country.
Dear Students,
I wanted to take a moment to reach out to you all in the wake of the recent presidential election results that have been reported this morning. For some, this is welcome news, while for others, it may not be the news that they were hoping for. I encourage you to pause and reflect on the power and influence you will carry as future lawyers, regardless of any election outcome.
History offers us powerful examples of how lawyers have shaped justice, even in difficult times. Think of the civil rights movement and the work of attorneys like Charles Hamilton Houston and Thurgood Marshall. In the 1930s and 40s, when the political climate was often hostile to racial equality, they pressed forward with courage and strategy. Their relentless pursuit of justice ultimately led to the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision, transforming public education and lighting a path for future movements. Despite the many obstacles, they believed deeply in their work and its potential to create lasting change.
As lawyers, you, too, will have the opportunity to influence justice, democracy, and equality in our country. Every case you argue, every client you counsel, and every community you advocate for contributes to the ongoing project of creating a fairer society. Elections will come and go, but the law endures as a tool for change, and your efforts within it can make a difference well beyond the present moment.
Here in South Carolina, the needs and opportunities for impact are significant. From environmental justice challenges that affect our coastal communities to issues of access to healthcare, food security, and equitable education, there is critical work to be done. As a lawyer in this state, you will have the chance to work on pressing issues that affect people's daily lives and to advocate for policies that can improve the wellbeing of entire communities. Whether it's through public interest law, policy advocacy, or corporate responsibility, your role can help address systemic issues, making South Carolina a better, fairer place for all who call it home.
Remember, true progress is often the result of steady, determined work over time. You are stepping into a profession that, despite the challenges, has a unique power to uphold and advance the ideals we all cherish. I am inspired by each of you and look forward to seeing the impact you’ll make on the world.
Warm regards,
Professor Toussaint
I encourage you to lean into your role as mentors and teachers, even when the path ahead feels uncertain. Our students are looking to us for guidance, and we are in a unique position to help them channel their concerns into meaningful action.
Together, we can inspire them to rise to the occasion and help create a future grounded in justice, equity, and hope.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students and to the values we hold dear.
Becoming Full,
P.S. The Tenure Track Newsletter is my way of sharing the insights and lessons I’ve picked up along the way—the kind of advice I wish someone had given me a few years ago. Feel free to subscribe if you are looking for support.
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I've found that the people in my life who are most upset are young people. There is a powerlessness I sense from them that is not typical for their generation. Your letter is great - I hope lots of professors write letters like that. I want my kids to get one.
Well said Etienne. Thank you to all you and your fellow educators and faculty do. Teaching knowledge will become even more important in the years to come.