An adjunct professor at Columbia Law School has come under fire after he was heard muttering an expletive on a live microphone last week. The incident occurred when a student approached him and asked him to slow down his lectures as international students were having trouble keeping up with the foreign language used in the class. However, the professor, Daniel Capra, refused to slow down and responded in a manner that was described as “marginalizing and deeply unprofessional.”
Capra has since apologized for his conduct, stating that he is ashamed of his actions, and has apologized to the student and the class. He stated that he has devoted his career to serving and helping students and is mortified that he acted as he did. The dean of Columbia Law, Gillian Lester, has also communicated with Capra to inform him that his language and attitude were unacceptable. She has also met with students to express her sorrow about the incident.
Aditi Thakur, the president of Columbia Law’s student senate, also released a statement stating that the student senate is “deeply alarmed” by the reports of Capra’s conduct. The statement went on to say that the student body believes that a safe and inclusive environment is essential for all students’ academic success and well-being, and they expect the faculty and administrators to take all necessary steps to uphold this principle.
The professors have a certain amount of material to deliver in a finite number of classes and must complete parts to ensure everyone catches up. However, it must be noted that Capra could have offered accommodations to struggling students, such as offering to put together a supplemental handout or answering questions via email or in his office.
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Capra is also a professor at Fordham University School of Law, and the law school’s dean, Matthew Diller, stated that he was saddened by Capra’s comments. He stated that Capra’s conduct was inconsistent with his reputation as a teacher and scholar over many years or the spirit of inclusiveness and care for others at the heart of a Fordham education.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of professionalism and inclusiveness in the legal education industry. The legal profession is built on a foundation of ethics and professionalism, and those who work in this field must uphold these principles, especially when interacting with students. The use of language that is marginalizing or disrespectful to students is unacceptable and has no place in a law school or any educational institution.
In conclusion, the legal education industry must take steps to ensure that all students feel welcome and valued. This requires the faculty and administrators to be professional, respectful, and accommodating to the needs of all students, regardless of their background. The incident at Columbia Law School serves as a reminder that there is still work to be done in this area, and everyone in the legal education industry must make sure that all students feel valued and included.
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Law prof curses student on hot mic after she asks him to slow down his lectures
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