Dean of the School of Law

Washington and Lee University (W&L) seeks a dynamic and distinguished academic leader with a track record of notable contributions to the field of law to serve as its next Dean of the School of Law. Founded in 1850, the Washington and Lee University School of Law (W&L Law) is a student-centered school that has trained lawyers for more than a century and a half. Ranked 35th in the most recent U.S. News & World Report, W&L Law offers a highly personalized approach to legal education, emphasizing small classes and experiential education. With a relentless focus on positive student outcomes, W&L Law prides itself on the rigor of its academic program, its high employment and bar passage rates for graduates, and—most importantly—its supportive and close-knit community.

W&L Law is committed to training transformative lawyers, and its alumni are among the School's greatest assets. W&L Law's graduates sit on federal and state benches throughout the nation, practice law in large corporate firms and small family practices, prosecute and defend criminal cases, represent the government at the national, state and local levels, lead businesses, advise corporations, advocate on behalf of public interest groups and serve in a myriad of ways advancing society and the nation in the practice of law and various leadership roles. It counts among its alumni many distinguished practitioners, judges, and entrepreneurs, including two U.S. Supreme Court Justices and the third highest number of American Bar Association presidents produced by any single school.

W&L Law’s small size, along with the faculty’s historical focus on teaching and culture of mentorship, have fostered an intimate and supportive learning environment. W&L Law's history is rooted in a culture of student-centeredness, emphasis on teaching, practice-experienced faculty, and student mentoring. W&L Law draws its students from a broad geographic reach; current students represent 37 states, the District of Columbia, and several foreign countries. Similarly, its alumni practice law throughout the country; on average, W&L Law graduates take the bar exam and start their legal careers in 25 different states each year. Each year, approximately 50% of each graduating class are employed in law firms (of all sizes), 25% in judicial clerkships, and the remaining 25% in government, public interest, and business sectors.

W&L Law seeks a Dean with the creativity, passion, drive, and stature to build on the Law School’s success to date. The Dean will possess a real commitment to diversity and inclusion and a genuine understanding and appreciation of the unique mission of W&L Law. The Dean will prioritize enhancing academic success and connecting with alumni and friends to further support W&L Law. Candidates must have a JD and the scholarly achievements necessary to satisfy the requirements of a tenured law professor at W&L Law. More information can be found at www.wittkieffer.com

WittKieffer is assisting W&L in this search. Application materials can be submitted through WittKieffer’s candidate portal or by sending to the email below. Review of candidate materials will continue until the position is filled, with priority given to applications received by November 29, 2021. Confidential nominations and inquiries can be directed to Werner Boel, LL.M. and Ashlee Winters at WLLawDean@wittkieffer.com

In compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and all other applicable non-discrimination laws, Washington and Lee University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran's status, or genetic information in its educational programs and activities, admissions, and with regard to employment.