College of Law Dean Melanie Wilson has informed me of her decision to step down and join the faculty effective June 30, 2020. I support her decision and want to thank her for her service and commitment to the university and the college.
Under Dean Wilson’s tenure, the college has seen great success and expanded its offerings to serve more students. It is 30th among public law schools in the 2019 U.S. News and World Report rankings. It has grown its enrollment by 30 percent and improved its graduate employment rates by 30 percent. The college has also surpassed its Join the Journey campaign goal, raising more than $50 million since the launch and increasing its number of annual donors by 40 percent.
In February, the college announced it is partnering with UT Martin to expand its 3+3 program, allowing undergraduate students to enter law school in their senior year and graduate with both degrees in six years. Last fall, the college began offering a flexible scheduling option that allows students with children or full-time jobs the opportunity to complete a Juris Doctor degree.
A national search for the next dean will begin this fall. Please join me in again thanking Dean Wilson for her leadership.