Penn State Dickinson School of Law Students Are Organizing the 19th Annual Robert M. Cover Public Interest Law Retreat Scheduled for March 3-5 at Boston University's Sargent Center in Hancock, New Hampshire

Carlisle, PA (February 9, 2006) — Yale Law School introduced and hosts the annual, weekend-long retreat in honor of Robert Cover, a Yale Law scholar and professor who envisioned an opportunity for public interest minded students, professors and practitioners to gather to exchange ideas and develop a platform for change in both legal education and the public interest sector. Cover’s untimely death prevented him from seeing his vision fulfilled.

As this year’s organizers, Penn State Dickinson students have chosen the event’s theme, “The Faces Behind the Cases,” in recognition of Cover's dedication to the protection of civil rights and with respect for the diverse reality of clients and issues encompassed in the realm of public interest law.

The retreat will feature the expertise of four Penn State Dickinson professors. Professor Gary Gildin will present “Enforcing Our Liberties: Choosing the Right Constitution;” Professor Katherine Pearson will participate on a panel on elder law; cristi cunningham, a visiting professor from Howard University School of Law, will speak on a panel addressing labor law; and Professor Victor Romero, who is currently a visiting professor at Howard University School of Law, will speak on a panel about immigration and asylum law. Over the course of the weekend, participants will also have the opportunity to attend panel discussions on topics such as Native American law, gay marriage, and disability law. View the full schedule of events.

The total cost for the weekend, including food and lodging, is $125; however, Penn State Dickinson students' registration fees and transportation will be provided by the law school. Penn State Dickinson students who wish to register should notify Abigail Whiffen at auw117@psu.edu. Forms for all others who would like to attend are available online at www.law.yale.edu/coverretreat. The registration deadline is February 15.

Attendees will have plenty of time to enjoy the winter wonderland surroundings provided by the Sargent Center. More information about the camp can be found at www.bu.edu/outdoor.