Dean, David A. Clarke School of Law

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC), founded in 1855, and its David A. Clarke School of Law (UDC Law) invite nominations and applications for the Dean of the School of Law. UDC Law carries the distinction of being the only public law school in the nation's capital and supports the university’s designation as an urban, public, land-grant, and historically black college or university (HBCU). The Dean reports directly to the Provost and Chief Academic Officer.

UDC comprises the undergraduate flagship, the embedded UDC Community College, and the David A. Clarke School of Law, one of only six accredited HBCU law schools in the nation. Recognized broadly for work in clinical settings on behalf of the public interest, UDC Law boasts the largest clinical requirement of any U.S. law school. U.S. News & World Report ranks UDC Law fifth in the nation for its clinical program. UDC Law offers the J.D.

An exceptional, dynamic student body at UDC Law undertakes study in a full-time day division and a part-time evening division. Respecting the unique history of UDC Law, the incoming Dean will have the opportunity to build upon its mission ". . .to provide a well-rounded theoretical and practical legal education that will enable students to be effective and ethical advocates; to recruit and enroll students from communities underrepresented at the bar; and to serve the public interest." The UDC Law student is secure with the foundation of an accessible and affordable learning experience.

UDC Law is committed to excellence and will expect the same in the successful candidate. The School seeks energetic, dynamic leadership characterized by innovation and dedication. The successful candidate will demonstrate the requirements, characteristics, and expectations that follow:

• Promote student support, well-being, and accommodation needs with an equal view to day and evening divisions;
• Frame, advance, and implement a vision for UDC Law to achieve its goals and mission;
• Lead accreditation standards and compliance in an environment that fosters academic success;
• Understand and commit to the vision for clinical and experiential education in a law school curriculum;
• Demonstrate sound decision-making abilities with management, budget, and legal education skills;
• Carry knowledge of a wide range of academic trends, legal disciplines, and sectors of law school operations, including library and communication needs;
• Be dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, and advance strategic planning as a means of innovative program development;
• Advance enrollment management with bold, innovative outlooks to support growth, retention, access, and post-graduation opportunities;
• Elevate UDC Law's profile as a voice in the community and engagements across the university with partnerships among industry, government, legal, and other external constituents;
• Support alumni relations and encourage a culture of philanthropy, identifying sources for successful fundraising;
• Be a strong advocate of UDC Law while supporting university-wide policies and colleague Deans;
• Provide supervisory stability and ability to hire talented professionals to join UDC Law's cadre of outstanding faculty and staff; and
• Demonstrate strong, approachable interpersonal practices as an active listener with excellent written and spoken communication skills.

The preferred candidate should have previous, successful administrative experience in a law school. Further, there must be a demonstrated commitment to student and faculty diversity principles. An earned Juris Doctor and eligibility for appointment as a tenured professor of law is preferred.

More information about UDC Law may be found at: UDC David A. Clarke School of Law – Practice Law, Promote Justice, Change Lives

Nominations and Applications

To ensure the best consideration, applications and nominations should be received by March 17, 2023. The new Dean will assume office by or before August 1, 2023.

The application should include:

• A letter of interest addressing the qualities described (not more than 3 pages);
• A current résumé (or curriculum vitae); and
• The names of at least five professional references with each person's position, office or home address, e-mail address, and telephone numbers. References will not be contacted without prior authorization from the applicant.

Nominations and applications should be sent electronically (MS Word or PDF Format) to: udclawdean@agbsearch.com 

For inquiries, please contact:

James McCormick, Senior Executive Search Consultant, jim.mccormick@agbsearch.com / (651) 238-5188

Janice Fitzgerald, Senior Executive Search Consultant, janice.fitzgerald@agbsearch.com / (717) 580-0663

In accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, as amended, D.C. Official Code §§2-1401.01 et seq. (Act), the District of Columbia does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, disability, source of income, status as a victim of an intrafamily offense, or place of residence or business. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is prohibited by the Act. In addition, harassment based on any of the above protected categories is prohibited by the Act. Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action.