#USA #New York #Kwanza Jones #José Feliciano #Cardozo Law

Enhancing Legal Education Access at Cardozo Law

Philanthropic duo Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano are making headlines with their groundbreaking initiative to bolster legal education accessibility. Announced on November 12, 2025, the pair have pledged a generous $6 million to the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University, aiming to revitalize and expand the clinical education program and facilities.

A Transformative Commitment

This commitment is not just about funding; it marks a significant investment in the future of legal education. The gift is set to establish a new, state-of-the-art facility named the Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano Clinical Education Program. The new space will feature modern offices for faculty and staff, collaborative work areas, and adequate meeting rooms designed for client consultations. These enhancements will equip students and faculty with the necessary resources to engage in vital pro bono legal work, thereby contributing to the communities they serve.

Jones and Feliciano have cultivated a strong relationship with Cardozo in recent years, emphasizing their shared vision for education and justice. In 2024, Kwanza was honored during the 14th Annual BALLSA Alumni Celebration for her leadership and commitment to equity, raising a record-breaking $60,000 designated for scholarships that support diversity among students facing hardships.

A Personal Connection

Reflecting on their journey, Jones, who earned her Juris Doctor from Cardozo in 1999, credits her own experiences in the law school's clinical programs for shaping her problem-solving and advocacy skills. "The clinical programs at Cardozo provided me with practical, real-world experience that has had a lasting impact on my professional journey," she shared. Her enthusiasm for giving back to the institution underscores both her personal and professional investment in fostering a better future through education.

Impacts Beyond the Campus

The ripple effect of this transformative gift will reach far beyond the walls of Cardozo Law. By expanding meaningful clinical work opportunities, the law school can enhance its capacity to provide essential legal services to underserved communities in New York City. Through this investment, students will gain invaluable skills while helping to protect the rights and dignities of those in need.

"This is a transformative gift that will impact our students’ lives for generations to come," expressed Melanie Leslie, Dean of Cardozo Law. She emphasized Kwanza's embodiment of Cardozo's spirit, highlighting their mutual goal of achieving educational equity and justice accessibility.

Continuing a Philanthropic Legacy

Through the Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano Initiative, the couple remains dedicated to their mission of elevating humanity through strategic philanthropic efforts. This $6 million commitment to Cardozo serves as a profound extension of their broader goals of empowerment, entrepreneurship, and education. Their legacy already includes over $250 million towards various impactful projects, showcasing their commitment to fostering inclusive opportunities.

Kwanza and José exemplify the essence of impactful philanthropy, using their resources and influence to drive change in the legal landscape and beyond. As they pave the way for future leaders in law, their story inspires us all to consider how we can contribute to our communities and elevate those around us.

Conclusion

The formation of the Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano Clinical Education Program at Cardozo Law stands as a testament to the transformative power of philanthropy in education. By focusing on the intersection of accessibility and practical experience, Jones and Feliciano are indeed making strides toward a more just and equitable society.

This partnership between philanthropy and education serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when visionaries come together to uplift their community.