Since 1973-74, the College of Law has hosted the David C. Baum Memorial
Lecture Series on Civil Liberties and Civil Rights. The Law Review, in turn,
invites the Baum Lecturers to publish their work in the journal. Videos of
recent Baum Lectures are available on the College of Law’s Annual
Lectures page.
About the David C. Baum Memorial Lecture Series
on Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
David C. Baum, 1934-1973
The family and friends of David C. Baum have endowed the David C. Baum
Memorial Lecture Series on Civil Liberties and Civil Rights not only in his
memory, but at his request. Deep concern for the dignity and rights of all
people was central to Professor Baum's character and activities.
After receiving his undergraduate and legal education at Harvard University,
Professor Baum served as law clerk for Justice Walter V. Schaefer of the
Illinois Supreme Court, 1959-60. He then practiced law with the Chicago firm
of Ross, McGowan, Hardies and O'Keefe until he joined the faculty of the
University of Illinois College of Law in 1963.
Professor Baum was an inspiration to his students and colleagues not only
because of the excellence of his teaching, scholarship, and public service,
but because of his remarkable human qualities. Conscientious and judicious,
blending passion for justice with dispassionate objectivity, he inspired
the highest level of discourse and endeavor in all who had the privilege
of knowing and working with him.
It is hoped that the David C. Baum Memorial Lecture Series on Civil Liberties
and Civil Rights will constitute a fitting memorial to a man whose unrelenting
intellectual vigor and moral commitment made his presence in the world of
law invaluable.
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