From the Dean
As I write my final Dean’s Letter, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and accomplishment. Over the last eight years, it has been a privilege to bring you this annual overview of the Syracuse University College of Law’s achievements, detailing our collective journey and the milestones that have defined my tenure as Dean.
Throughout these years, we have launched groundbreaking programs, expanded our distinctive centers and institutes, and enhanced the diversity and credentials of our student body. Meeting our ambitious fundraising goals a full year ahead of schedule stands as a testament to our shared dedication and hard work. These are not just achievements; they are the highlights of my 20-year academic career and the embodiment of our shared commitment to this institution.
As I prepare to pass the reins to Dean Terence J. Lau L’98, I am reminded of the transient nature of this role. No law dean remains in place forever—we are each simply stewards of the institution, entrusted to leave it better than we found it. I am confident that we have achieved this together, positioning Syracuse Law on strong footing to embrace the future with optimism and strength.
With heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for the future,
Craig M. Boise
Dean and Professor of Law
Dean Craig Boise: Leading for the Future and Creating More Expansive Legal Communities
Explore the transformative impact of Craig Boise’s tenure as Dean of Syracuse University College of Law. Discover how his visionary leadership and innovative programs have redefined legal education, leading to remarkable success for graduates like Tyler Jefferies L’21, now a Deputy Attorney General in Pennsylvania. Read the full story to learn more about the enduring legacy of Dean Boise’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
International Law Opportunities Take Syracuse Law Students, Faculty Around the World and Back to Campus
While Dineen Hall may physically occupy a corner of the University campus, the reach of the College of Law stretches across the globe with so many opportunities for students and faculty to gain rich and diverse experiences that further their understanding of international law and topics related to it.
Students and faculty have the chance to participate in legal and cultural exchanges at other institutions around the world such as the University of Bialystok and Adam Mickiewicz University in Poland. JDinteractive (JDi) students studying primarily online have the opportunity to gather in-person several times each year for intensive residencies, while taking in the culture of faraway places like Rome, Geneva, and London. Syracuse Law residential students interested in spending a summer abroad can participate in LondonEx, an opportunity to take on an externship which allows exposure to the practice of law in a global setting. And, the College is proud to offer a Master of Law (LL.M.) program that draws established attorneys, judges and government officials from around the globe to Syracuse for a comprehensive year of learning about the U.S. legal system and diverse range of elective courses.
In addition, these international connections have brought about unique opportunities for Syracuse Law faculty to interact with other academic, legal and government professionals the world over for an exchange of information on topics that include international law, disability law and human rights law; opportunities to speak about their work at prestigious events around the globe, the chance to work as visiting professors in other countries and represent the U.S. as thought leaders on major world events like the war in Ukraine. Syracuse Law students, too, have shared in the work of these faculty members, expanding their legal acumen above and beyond the U.S. And, the faculty presence in other parts of the world has helped to build a pipeline to the LL.M. program and raised the profile of the institution that attracts international students to pursue further research and study at Syracuse Law.
All of these aforementioned opportunities make for a more diverse community and academic life at Syracuse Law, putting a wider lens on so many vital areas of the law that impact both the educational components taught at the law school and the future success of those who carry this information out into the world in practice, whether in Syracuse or thousands of miles away.
Assistant Dean of International Programs Travels the World to Promote Global Relationships with Syracuse Law
Andrew Horsfall ’05, L’10, Assistant Dean of International Programs, has helped turn Syracuse Law into a global hub by fostering international relationships and expanding opportunities abroad. From London to Switzerland, his efforts are opening doors for students and faculty alike.
LondonEx: Syracuse Law Celebrates 45 Years in One of the World’s Most Dynamic Cities
Discover how this immersive experience at the Syracuse University London Centre provides students with unparalleled opportunities to learn and work alongside legal professionals in the U.K. and enriches their legal education beyond the U.S. system.
Professors Maintain Pipeline from Brazil and Establish New Relationships to Bolster the Ll.M. Program
Professors Antonio Gidi and Arlene Kanter are enhancing Syracuse Law’s LL.M. Program by building strong international connections, particularly with Brazil, and fostering a diverse and enriching educational experience.
“If I Do Something, I Want to be the Best at It”: International Attorney Takes on LL.M. to Learn U.S. Legal Practices
Chatura Patil LL.M. ’24 is a driven international attorney from India and chose Syracuse Law to advance her career and immerse herself in U.S. legal practices. Her inspiring journey highlights the opportunities and support available at Syracuse Law, leading her to excel in the LL.M. program and prepare for the New York State Bar Exam.
Building a Network with Frontline States
Syracuse Law’s James Baker is forging vital connections with frontline states through his extensive expertise in international law and security. From aiding Ukraine’s cybersecurity efforts to spearheading the Ring Around Russia initiative, Baker’s work is reinforcing national security and promoting shared legal values amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Syracuse Law Partnership with the University of Bialystok Leads to Exchange of Faculty, Ideas, and Scholarship
Explore how the vibrant partnership between Syracuse Law and the University of Bialystok is transforming legal education through dynamic faculty exchanges, innovative collaborative courses, and a robust exchange of ideas. This unique collaboration is enhancing global understanding and fostering a rich learning environment for students and faculty on both sides of the Atlantic.
International Law Under Pressure
Explore the thought leadership of Professor Cora True-Frost G’01, L’01 as she delves into the myriad legal issues and pressures facing international law in today’s tumultuous global environment. Her insights highlight the challenges and innovative efforts to uphold international law and collaboration amidst a multipolar world and an increasingly inactive UN Security Council.
A New Era in Legal Education: JDinteractive’s Five-Year Milestone
The JDi program was established at Syracuse Law five years ago under the direction of Nina Kohn, the David M. Levy Professor of Law and formerly Faculty Director of Online Education; and Kathleen (KC) O’Connor, now retired Associate Dean for Online Education, as a new model of legal education and one of the first two of its kind approved by the American Bar Association. It has since grown into one of the seven best hybrid online J.D. programs in the country, according to the 2024 Princeton Review. With 187 graduates as of 2024 and 270 students currently enrolled, it has earned a reputation as one of the most well-established online programs nationwide. The JDi program is one of only 17 law schools that are ABA-approved for “distance education.”
“This program was designed so thoughtfully, and its rigor is entirely equivalent to a residential program,” says Shannon Gardner, Associate Dean of Online Education, who coordinates the program. Syracuse Law’s JDi Program is the highest quality of legal education.”
A distinction of JDi is its six required in-person residencies, each of which focuses on different legal topics ranging from basic legal study strategies and a foundation of the U.S. legal system to advanced topics like international law and comparative trial advocacy, as well as elder law and bankruptcy. While these residencies are designed to further learning, they are also an important opportunity for JDi students to interact with faculty, staff, alumni, and, most importantly, other students in their cohorts who they may otherwise know only through a computer screen.
Students in the JDi program are a diverse group from all over the country. Most students tend to be older—the average age is 34—more experienced professionals, many with multiple degrees and established careers in a variety of fields. They are juggling the responsibilities of jobs and family but have chosen to pursue the law for reasons that vary from excelling in their present jobs to starting a second career.
Career Changers and Career Advancers
JDinteractive draws students from all kinds of academic, work, social, geographic, and countless other backgrounds and experiences. Many are typically older than a traditional J.D. student and come into the program with a resume of work accomplishments. Many continue to work full-time during the program.
While it’s not easy to classify every JDi student’s goals, they often fall into one of two categories: Career Advancers who are pursuing a J.D. to grow within their existing organization or to meet new challenges to their positions; and Career Changers who are pursuing a J.D. to take on a new challenge in life.
What is certain is JDi students are passionate about the law and the JDi program, and are embracing all the school and program have to offer for their future success.
JDi Program Allows Tax Manager to Pursue Career as Tax Counsel at Private Trust Company
“Law School Dad” Sets His Sights on Law Degree, Seat in Congress
JDinteractive Program Adds New Skillset to Healthcare Professional’s Career Path
Moving From Place to Place, Ex-Marine, Entrepreneur Shifts His Career to Law Thanks to Flexibilty of JDi Program
Physician, Navy Veteran Enrolls in JDi Program to Add Lawyer to Her Accomplishments
Full-Time U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Fits in Part-Time Study of Law Through JDi Program
Residencies Give JDi Students a World View of Legal Topics, Opportunity to Connect Face-to-Face with Cohort
Who wouldn’t want to take in the ancient architecture of Rome while studying international law or see landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace while learning about comparative trial advocacy in the heart of London? Who can resist the rush of adrenaline found in a bustling New York City law firm while learning about asset finance or the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles while studying bankruptcy law? These are just a few of the options offered to students enrolled in the Syracuse University College of Law’s JDinteractive (JDi) hybrid online program, as they work to complete six required in-person residencies.
Syracuse Law News
Terence J. Lau L’98 Named Dean of the College of Law
Syracuse University announced that Terence J. Lau L’98 has been named the 13th dean of Syracuse University’s College of Law.
Reflections on the Career of Professor Arlene Kanter
Kanter’s contributions to the lives of numerous Syracuse Law students and the global legal profession during her four-plus decades of service are difficult to wrap one’s head around. There are countless books, articles, presentations, committee memberships, guest teaching positions, not to mention co-counsel to two U.S. Supreme Court cases, and so much more, it is hard to narrow these accomplishments down to a few highlights.
Syracuse Law Celebrates the Class of 2024 Commencement
Class of 2024 Commencement Speaker the Hon. James E. Graves Jr. G’80, L’80 U.S. Circuit Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, said, in part, “Begin each day expecting that the world owes you nothing, because it doesn’t, and then you will be delighted with every kind word, every helping hand, and every little smile, which is given to you during the day…”
Yohannes Takele Zewale LL.M.’19, S.J.D.’24 Successfully Defends Dissertation for Doctor of Juridical Science Degree
Yohannes Takele Zewale, LL.M.’19, S.J.D.’24, successfully defended his dissertation for the Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) degree. Zewale passed the oral defense of his dissertation with no revisions, becoming the first student to receive his S.J.D. from the College of Law.
College of Law Introduces Two Groundbreaking Intercollegiate Trial Advocacy Competitions
Syracuse University College of Law will host two first-of-its-kind intercollegiate trial advocacy competitions in the 2024-2025 academic year. The new competitions are the National Military Trial Competition and the Syracuse Deposition Competition, bringing the total of hosted Syracuse Law competitions to five.
Syracuse University College of Law Introduces the First Joint J.D./LL.M. Degree in Advocacy and Litigation
The joint J.D./LL.M. degree in Advocacy and Litigation. allows full-time, on-campus College of Law J.D. students to earn their J.D. and LL.M. at the same time, graduating with both degrees in three years, and at no cost beyond that of the J.D.
Syracuse Law Clinic News
Professor Elizabeth Kubala Named Executive Director of Clinical Education and Veteran and Military Affairs for the College of Law
Syracuse Law has named Teaching Professor Beth Kubala as Executive Director of Clinical Education. In this capacity, Kubala will lead the clinical faculty in expanding offerings as envisioned by our strategic plan, elevating activities of the clinics within the College of Law, and collaborating with community partners to identify areas that need support in access to justice in Central New York.
In addition, Kubala is the newly established director of Veteran and Military Affairs for the College of Law. She will continue to direct the Betty and Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic, where she has enthusiastically supported clinical legal education and innovated new partnerships and opportunities to enhance both the student experience and the delivery of legal services.
“Since joining the clinical faculty, Beth has served as a valued supporter of our veteran and
military-connected students at the College of Law. Beth has been instrumental in growing our ranks of veteran and military-connected students, bringing in scholarship opportunities, and connecting them to resources and opportunities through the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs and the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Beth has also assisted many students in their pursuit of careers as military Judge Advocates,” says Dean Craig Boise.
College of Law to Add Housing Clinic for Fall 2024
The Housing Clinic will operate in partnership with Legal Services of Central New York and the Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York to provide representation to low-income tenants in eviction, housing conditions, and other rental housing-related matters.
Investing in Collaboration: The Holistic Approach of the Legal-Social Work Partnership Program
Learn how Syracuse University’s Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics and the College of Law are collaborating on the Legal-Social Work Partnership Program to support the local veteran community. This innovative initiative, led by alumni and veteran professionals, combines legal and social work expertise to provide holistic assistance to veterans, offering both legal aid and essential social services.
Betty and Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic Statement on Johnson v. Grants Pass SCOTUS Case
Syracuse University College of Law’s Betty and Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic (VLC) is proud to join 43 other organizations, including the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans and the UCLA Veterans Clinic, by submitting an Amicus Brief to the Supreme Court in the case of Johnson v. Grants Pass. The Amicus Brief reinforces the duty to ensure that the voices of our nation’s veterans are heard as part of the discourse surrounding this case.
Syracuse University College of Law’s Betty and Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic Receives U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs “Legal Services for Homeless Veterans and Veterans-At-Risk for Homelessness Grant”
The Syracuse University College of Law’s Betty and Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic (VLC) has received a prestigious grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to provide legal services for homeless veterans and those at risk of homelessness.
Transactional Law Clinic Helps Neezen Toze Theater Company Get On Stage
Students from the Syracuse University Transactional Law Clinic, led by director Jessica Murray, provided comprehensive legal support to the Neezen Toze Theater Company, a nonprofit in Tully, New York. Their efforts included drafting incorporation documents, obtaining tax-exempt status, and offering ongoing counsel, greatly benefiting the organization’s operations and future.
Professor Michael Schwartz Visits the University of World Economy and Diplomacy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
This spring, Professor Michael Schwartz, Director of the Disability Rights Clinic at Syracuse University College of Law, visited the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to explore collaboration opportunities focused on disability rights. During his visit, Schwartz engaged with law clinic faculty, students, and local communities, highlighting the potential for impactful international human rights work and future partnerships.
A Student’s Reflection on the Criminal Defense Clinic: Lu Weierbach L’25
During the second-year fall semester, Lu Weierback found the Criminal Defense Clinic to be one of the most valuable learning experiences in his law school education. Under the close mentorship of Professor Gary Pieples, he applied legal skills in real-world settings, representing clients in court and negotiating with district attorneys, effectively utilizing interpersonal communication and attention to detail skills gained from their time as an Infantry officer in the U.S. Army.