Statement from Susan Plum, Interim Executive Director, Skadden Foundation:

"I am profoundly honored to be asked to return to the Foundation as Interim Executive Director, and to have the chance to once again serve this remarkable organization and its extraordinary community, which have been a cornerstone of my professional life and whose steadfast dedication to public service continues to inspire me every day. Since its founding nearly 40 years ago, the Foundation's mission has remained constant: empowering the most talented and driven public interest lawyers to serve those living in poverty across America. Its impact has been extraordinary, funding more than 1,000 fellowships, launching the careers of attorneys who have devoted themselves to public service and enabling its Fellows to influence the lives of countless individuals in need. The Foundation is the only organization of its kind, funded exclusively by Skadden’s partners. Together, the partners set aside their own individual interests and views to support the Fellows, whose host organizations span a wide variety of causes. We recognize that maintaining a broad, nonpartisan approach in an increasingly polarized climate is more difficult than ever and some believe it runs counter to the Foundation’s purpose and values. We fundamentally disagree. In fact, the opposite is true. This moment is precisely when the Foundation must adhere to its core foundational principle of transcending division to enable the Fellows’ work where it is needed most. As we look to the Foundation’s future, we are confident that our shared values and sense of purpose will continue to unite and inspire the Fellows community."