Dr. Olatunde Johnson

Professor

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Biography

Olatunde Johnson is a renowned professor at Columbia Law School, where he specializes in areas such as civil procedure, legislation, and anti-discrimination law. His distinguished scholarship has significantly shaped national conversations regarding modern civil rights legislation and efforts to mitigate inequality. Johnson is committed to cultivating a new generation of civic-minded lawyers, utilizing his extensive legal practice background to illuminate the critical role of litigation in promoting social change. His recent research addresses the challenges state and local governments face in enhancing opportunities for historically excluded groups, particularly in the contexts of discrimination and wage increases. His contributions to Columbia Law School extend beyond academia, as demonstrated by his involvement in organizing events aimed at engaging the community and his recognition as a role model for aspiring public interest lawyers. Johnson has received numerous accolades, including the Willis L.M. Reese Prize for Excellence in Teaching and the Presidential Award for Outstanding Teaching. He has an impressive background that includes clerking for Justice John Paul Stevens and serving as constitutional and civil rights counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee under Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Johnson continues to influence his field through both his teaching and his active participation in public service.

Research Interests

Experience

Faculty Member

2006-01-01 — Present

Columbia Law School • New York, NY

Joined Columbia Law School faculty, became vice dean of Intellectual Life (2016-2018).

Counsel

1997-01-01 — 2001-01-01

NAACP Legal Defense Fund • New York, NY

Conducted trial and appellate-level litigation to promote racial equity.

Constitutional and Civil Rights Counsel

2001-01-01 — 2003-01-01

Senate Judiciary Committee • Washington, D.C.

Worked under Senator Edward M. Kennedy.

Senior Consultant

2003-01-01 — 2004-01-01

ACLU's National Legal Department • Washington, D.C.

Focusing on racial justice.

Awards

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Elected Member

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Willis L.M. Reese Prize Excellence Teaching

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Presidential Award Outstanding Teaching

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Public Interest Professor Year

Courses

Civil Procedure Antidiscrimination Law

Requirements for Columbia University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or international equivalent
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Academic Purpose
  • Personal Statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • CV or Resume
  • Application fee
Specialization Notes

Department of Anthropology (GSAS)