Derrick Bell, former Executive Director of Western Center on Law and Poverty (1968 – 1969) and one of the organization’s founders, passed away on October 5th.   Subsequent to his work at Western Center, Professor Bell joined the Harvard Law School faculty, became Dean of the University of Oregon Law School and later served as a visiting professor at the New York University School of Law.   An acclaimed author, visionary and activist, Derrick Bell spoke truth to power, challenging racism and prejudice throughout his illustrious career.

His NY Times obituary can be viewed at: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/06/us/derrick-bell-pioneering-harvard-law-professor-dies-at-80.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1