I am pleased to announce we have launched a national search for the next dean of the College of Law. I plan to have a new dean in place by the end of the spring.
The search committee, chaired by Dean Victoria Niederhauser of the College of Nursing, includes:
- Eric Amarante, assistant professor of law;
- Zack Buck, associate professor of law;
- Scott Child, professor and associate dean for library and technology services;
- Andrew Cox, Student Bar Association;
- Beth Ford, director of federal services of Eastern Tennessee;
- Michael Higdon, associate dean for faculty development and professor of law;
- Lucy Jewel, professor of law and director of legal writing;
- Michelle Kwon, associate professor of law;
- Rachel McClelland, director of communications;
- Joy Radice, associate professor of law and director of clinical programs; and
- Greg Stein, the Woold, McClane, Bright, Allen & Carpenter distinguished professor of law.
Dean Melanie Wilson informed me over the summer of her decision to step down and join the faculty at the end of the academic year. She has served as dean of the College of Law since 2015. During her tenure, the college has grown enrollment and expanded access to education through innovative programs.
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.
The college is ranked 30th among public law schools by U.S. News and World Report, and its clinical program is ranked ninth among public universities.
I want to thank Dean Neidenhauser and the committee for their willingness to serve.