University News

Levi to Serve as Inaugural Fellow for Berry Institute of Politics

Published: February 02, 2022 | Categories: Law, All News
Jennifer Levi portrait

Western New England University (WNE) School of Law professor Jennifer Levi has been named an inaugural Fellow in a new Salem State University program of the Berry Institute of Politics (IOP). Levi will share this honor with former Boston Mayor Kim Janey for the Spring 2022 semester.

Jennifer L. Levi is a lawyer, a professor, and a nationally recognized expert on transgender legal issues who has dedicated their career to fighting for the rights of women; children; the poor; and gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) clients. Currently, Levi serves as the Director of the Transgender Rights Project for the GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) and as Professor of Law at Western New England University. Throughout their career, Levi has led legal fights for transgender equality across a range of contexts including in the areas of family law, education, health care, incarceration, military service, and beyond.

As rising or seasoned professionals, Fellows share their knowledge, skills, and experiences with students who are exploring and pursuing careers in politics and public service. As current practitioners, Fellows support students building practical skills that will supplement what they are learning through academic courses. Through one-time and ongoing engagement, Fellows serve as a resource and a mentor to students. During their visits, IOP Fellows will participate and lead both curricular and co-curricular programs.

Established in 2019, the Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics is a nonpartisan effort to expand political engagement at the university and on the North shore.