March 4, 2008

Cooley Professor To Lead Discussion at Presentation of 'Jane Eyre'

Professor Cynthia Ward

Thomas M. Cooley Law School Professor Cynthia Ward will lead a discussion on the ethical implications highlighted in “Jane Eyre” prior to the performance of the play at Lansing Community College’s Dart Auditorium on March 29 at 7 p.m.

“Jane Eyre” is an exploration of the mind and emotions of a strong-willed woman who is determined to live by her own principles and ethics. Ward, who teaches elder law at Cooley , will relate the main character to her former legal experiences, which include leading a New Jersey Women and AIDS clinic.

“The storyline is full of dilemmas involving power, social class and adultery,” Ward said. “These are things that many individuals are confronted with at some point in their lives. It
is my hope that the audience will appreciate the play from a new perspective; and that the discussion will broaden their ethics lens.”

“Jane Eyre” is the third and final performance in Cooley’s 2007-2008 season of Stages of the Law. Preceded by "The Best Man" and "Doubt," each play presents a strong ethical dilemma that faces the main character. These dilemmas are examined through community forums led by Cooley professors.

“We can use the arts not only for entertainment but as a forum for community learning,” said Cooley President Don LeDuc. “Engaging the audience in discussion before the performances helps to provide a more thought-provoking experience. The storylines of these plays offers a healthy challenge for all of us to be aware of the manifestations of ethics and their consequences.”

Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, Cooley Law School is the largest law school in the country. Founded in 1972, it operates J.D. programs across Michigan in downtown Lansing, in Auburn Hills, and in downtown Grand Rapids. Today, Cooley Law School has more than 12,000 graduates across the nation and worldwide and also offers joint degree and Master of Laws programs. Cooley offers enrollment three times a year; in January, May and September. Additional information about Cooley can be found at www.cooley.edu.