Detroit Mercy Law Community Members Receive University Titan Innovation Fund Grants

University of Detroit Mercy School of Law community members received grants from the University of Detroit Mercy’s Titan Innovation Fund. The University invited proposals for innovations that addressed challenges and opportunities aligned with the Detroit Mercy mission and University President Donald Taylor’s institutional priorities. Steven Meerschaert, 2L, and Dr. Courtney Griffin, Assistant Dean of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, submitted proposals that were selected for funding.

Meerschaert submitted a proposal for mental health services at the law school. His experience as a licensed clinical social worker and as a student leader of Detroit Mercy Law’s Mental Health Association student group inspired his proposal. “As a mental health professional and as a law student, this is one of my proudest moments,” he said. “I’m grateful to the University of Detroit Mercy and the Titan Fund administrators, as well as to Dean Ieisha Humphrey, Professor Holly Christian, Dean Jelani Jefferson Exum, and all my fellow Mental Health Association members who supported this initiative.”

Griffin submitted a proposal to host a pipeline program in partnership with high schools in the Detroit Public Schools Community District. Students will be invited to the law school for a day to connect with current students and alumni and experience a mock law class. “Preview Day supports the mission of the University to improve educational attainment in Metro Detroit as well as strengthens our partnerships with K-12 entities,” explained Griffin.

Detroit Mercy Law, inspired by the Jesuit and Mercy Traditions, is dedicated to educating the complete lawyer through a variety of services and support for students at all stages of their journey as prelaw students, current students, and graduates.

To learn more, visit www.law.udmercy.edu.