Loyola Law School Dean Reflects on a Year of Milestones, Innovation, and Service

Loyola University Chicago's School of Law has seen a whirlwind of activity and progress over the past year and a half, thanks to the leadership of its new Dean. Since stepping into the role, the Dean has worked to reinforce Loyola Law’s mission, focusing on community connection, program expansion, and innovative legal education. In a recent conversation, the Dean shared insights into the highlights, challenges, and future directions for the law school.

Reflecting on Key Highlights

The Dean’s tenure has already been marked by several milestones. One of the standout events was the 30th anniversary of the Child Law Center, a moment that celebrated decades of advocacy for children and legislative achievements in child welfare. Another major highlight was the anniversary of the Rome summer law program, which has provided students with a unique educational experience abroad. The Rome program brings together alumni and current students, creating a close-knit community and offering students the chance to study law from a global perspective.

“The law program in Rome is truly special,” the Dean shared. “For many alumni, it was a transformative experience. We’re proud to continue offering our students opportunities to expand their understanding of law in a global context.”

The Dean also mentioned the success of Loyola’s alumni weekend, which brought together former students to reconnect with the school and with each other. Alumni weekends not only provide a chance for personal reconnections but also foster ongoing professional development and networking.

Embracing a Culture of Innovation

Describing the past year as a “year of innovation,” the Dean highlighted several groundbreaking initiatives. Among these was the launch of a pathway program in partnership with AUPE, which brings AUPE students into Loyola’s law school weekly for classes and mentorship. These pathway programs serve to inspire and educate future legal professionals from diverse backgrounds and are an important component of the law school’s mission to promote inclusivity in the field.

The school has also prioritized hands-on learning experiences through various programs, including moot court competitions, trial advocacy, and negotiation exercises. These opportunities not only prepare students for real-world legal challenges but also allow them to showcase their skills at events around the country and internationally. Later this year, students will participate in a competition in Vienna, demonstrating Loyola Law’s commitment to providing a global perspective on legal education.

Championing Women in Law

The Women in Law Conference, an annual event celebrating the contributions of women to the legal profession, remains a significant pillar of Loyola Law’s programming. This year’s conference will include panels and workshops on women in litigation, transactional law, and technology. Keynote speakers, many of whom are Loyola alumni, will offer insights on leadership, advocacy, and transformation within the legal sector.

“Our Women in Law Conference brings together all who value the contributions of women to this profession,” the Dean explained. “It’s an opportunity to recognize and inspire those who are making an impact today and for those who will lead in the future.”

Collaborating on Notable Projects

Loyola Law’s faculty and students are engaged in numerous community-focused initiatives. The Health Justice Project, in collaboration with Loyola’s School of Social Work and Stritch School of Medicine, runs a medical-legal partnership in Maywood. This clinic serves to meet the medical, social, and legal needs of the community, providing holistic care to those in need. Other impactful projects include the Child Law Center’s legislative efforts, which aim to pass laws that protect children, and a K-12 bullying prevention program that works to safeguard children in the educational system.

The law school also emphasizes immigration law through the Center for Human Rights and Children, which recently launched an asylum practicum offering services to migrants. This program sends students and faculty to the U.S.-Mexico border to provide legal assistance to those in detention centers, allowing students to gain firsthand experience in immigration law while making a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Aspirations

While the Dean is optimistic about the future, they acknowledge that legal education faces significant challenges. These include training professionals who can uphold the rule of law, promote inclusivity, and adapt to societal changes. Loyola Law’s professional identity program is designed to meet these challenges head-on, equipping students with the skills to engage across cultural and ideological divides.

“The times we are in call for a strong emphasis on coalition building,” the Dean noted. “We are teaching our students to navigate difficult conversations, to lead with empathy, and to build bridges in a diverse and complex world.”

The Dean’s enthusiasm and forward-thinking approach are evident in the new faculty members joining the school, as well as the expanded partnerships with local Chicago organizations. By forging connections within the community, the Dean aims to make Loyola Law a cornerstone of legal education and public service in the city.

Fostering a Vibrant Legal Community

Reflecting on their role, the Dean expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit of Loyola Law’s faculty, staff, students, and alumni. They see the school as a “community full of leaders,” each committed to driving meaningful change within the legal profession.

“Every day at Loyola is an opportunity to push forward, to innovate, and to serve,” the Dean concluded. “I am excited for what lies ahead as we continue to grow and adapt to meet the needs of our students and the broader community.”

As the law school looks ahead to the coming year, it remains dedicated to upholding its mission of service, integrity, and excellence. With a host of new programs, partnerships, and initiatives on the horizon, Loyola University Chicago’s School of Law is poised to continue shaping the next generation of transformative legal professionals.