Dean, School of Law
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) seeks a transformational leader and accomplished scholar to serve as the next Dean of the School of Law. One of the oldest law schools in the nation, the Law School is known for its influential faculty-scholars and robust marketplace of ideas; many top-ranked programs; advanced curricula focused on experiential education; a global and international perspective; and longstanding commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Dean will lead a collegial faculty, an outstanding and diverse student body, a dedicated staff, and an engaged and supportive alumni network. The Dean will have opportunities to work with leaders from across CWRU, one of the country’s leading independent private research institutions and accomplished member of the AAU (Association of American Universities). The Dean will also engage with the Cleveland community, home to several of the nation’s largest law firms, foremost healthcare systems, and world-renowned cultural institutions, as well as with the Law School’s broad network of national and international stakeholders.
Successful candidates will have a JD with scholarly achievements that merit appointment at the rank of full professor with tenure. A strong background in academic leadership with experience in administration at the law school level. A commitment to transparency and faculty governance, as well as to consideration of multiple perspectives. Experience in effectively managing staff and a willingness to delegate as appropriate. A student-centered outlook, as well as an interest in and aptitude for developing a strong rapport with students. An ability to balance competing priorities among stakeholders, including faculty and staff. A record of proven success in, or aptitude for, significant fundraising. A sophisticated and nuanced understanding of the current challenges facing legal education and higher education, and issues facing society more generally. A demonstrated commitment to building an organization that values and practices diversity, equity, and inclusion. A commitment to academic freedom and fostering an institutional environment that encourages the expression of a broad range of perspectives while maintaining collegiality and civility. The ability to collaborate with CWRU’s senior leadership, including the President and Provost and fellow deans, and to advance CWRU’s goals while serving as a strong advocate for the Law School. An enthusiasm for innovation and creativity in leading the Law School to new heights.
Read more about the position specifications here.
Provost/Executive Vice President Joy K. Ward, and the Law School Dean Search Committee, co-chaired by Associate Dean Jessie Hill and Dean Dexter Voisin, invite inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of Dean of the Law School. Interested, qualified individuals should provide to CWRU.law@edexsearch.com an electronic version of their curriculum vitae along with a bullet-point summary of key accomplishments in each leadership role held. The submission of a letter expressing interest is optional, albeit very welcome.
CWRU has retained Ilene H. Nagel and John D. Simon of Education Executives to assist with this search. Confidential inquiries, nominations, and applications should be sent via email to:
Ilene H. Nagel and John D. Simon
Education Executives, LLC
Case Western Reserve University strives to maintain a diverse and inclusive work environment. All applicants are protected under Federal law from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age and genetics.
Case Western Reserve provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity by phone at 216.368.3066 or by email at equity@case.edu. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.