Dr. Isabel S. Marcus Fund for the Domestic Violence Clinic

To honor the incredible legacy of Dr. Marcus, a renowned professor and advocate for human rights and gender equality who passed away in 2021, the Dr. Isabel S. Marcus Fund for the Domestic Violence Clinic was established. Dr. Isabel S. Marcus joined the faculty at the University of Buffalo (UB) School of Law in 1982. She spent 35 years teaching and conducting research on a range of issues, including labor and family law, women's rights, and gender equality. In 1997, she co-founded the Institute for Research and Education on Women and Gender (now the Gender Institute) and served as chair of the Women's Studies program at UB. In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Marcus received two Fulbright Scholar Awards and was named an International Scholar by the Open Society Foundation's Institute for Higher Education Support Program in Eastern Europe.

The Dr. Isabel S. Marcus Fund supports the work of the Family Violence and Women's Rights Clinic, which Dr. Marcus helped establish in 1992. This clinic provides crucial support and representation to victims of domestic violence in Western New York and offers hands-on experience to law students. The clinic has been a vital resource for those in need and has helped to bring justice to countless individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

Judith Olin, Clinical Professor and Director of the Family Violence and Women’s Rights Clinic, reflects on Dr. Marcus’ impact on the careers of many future advocates and activists. “In her years as a professor at the law school, Professor Marcus greatly influenced and inspired law students, many of whom went on to pursue careers in public interest law, advocating for underrepresented clients.” 

We are grateful for the opportunity to honor the memory of Professor Marcus and continue her work through the Dr. Isabel S. Marcus Fund for the Domestic Violence Clinic. Your generosity helps us continue the important work of addressing domestic violence, promoting gender equality in our community, and producing graduates ready to enter the field of public interest. Thank you for considering a donation to the Dr. Isabel S. Marcus Fund for the Domestic Violence Clinic.

Dr. Isabel S. Marcus