On April 30, Norco College welcomed Professor Fareed Nassor Hayat of Seton Hall University School of Law for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation on equity, justice, and pathways into the legal profession. Held in THTR-101, the event invited students, faculty, and staff to engage with real-world insights on civil rights and the legal system.
Drawing from his experience as a public defender and civil rights attorney, Professor Hayat shared how strategic legal advocacy can shape the outcome of cases, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the law and the facts. He reflected on moments in his career that revealed how bias and assumptions can influence outcomes, including a case where a jury’s perception of a defendant’s identity outweighed the actual evidence presented.
Professor Hayat also spoke candidly about his personal journey to law school, which was shaped by firsthand experiences with injustice and a desire to better understand and challenge systems of power. He described his time working in Baltimore as a public defender, where he handled a wide range of cases and developed a reputation for rigorous preparation and courtroom effectiveness.
(Professor Fareed Nassor Hayat of Seton Hall University School of Law (right) with Norco College host of the event)
A key message throughout the discussion was the importance of excellence and discipline for students interested in law and social justice. Professor Hayat encouraged aspiring legal professionals to focus on mastering critical thinking, writing, and research skills, noting that meaningful change in the legal system requires both passion and technical expertise.
The conversation also explored how legal education can be made more accessible, including his use of culturally relevant teaching methods to help students better understand complex legal concepts.
The event concluded with a meet and greet reception, where attendees continued the conversation and connected directly with Professor Hayat.