A Message from Dean Johnson - February 2021

Dear Alumni,

As I reflect on this past year, it’s easy to focus on the things that were difficult. The pandemic has defined so much of our experience for nearly a year now, and it looks like it will for a while. That has presented challenges in higher education and in the legal profession that none of us could have easily predicted. At the same time, political discourse reached a new low point. The story of racial injustice in the United States was made plainly and painfully visible. And there were so many anguishing stories of personal loss.

I think it is important to be honest about all of that. Yet, even as I acknowledge this truth about 2020, I am at the same time filled with gratitude and a continuing deep sense of mission-driven purpose.

Throughout the crises of this past year, I have seen members of the SLU LAW community give meaning to the phrase cura personalis in profound ways. I have seen countless acts of generosity and sacrifice done out of genuine concern for others. I have seen vulnerability and deep desire for and commitment to meaningful change, as we seek that elusive dream of racial justice and equity. I have seen so many alumni offer to help students who needed it and to be there for this law school when we needed it. A crisis will reveal the true character of a community, and, my dear friends, the character of this law school community is beautiful. 

Of course, a tremendous amount of work remains to address the harms caused or exacerbated by the pandemic, by political turmoil, and by injustice. But I am encouraged by the many ways that students, faculty and staff have risen up to work for a better world, even as the horrors of 2020 unfolded. And the spirit of generosity that I have encountered as I have engaged with you, our alumni, throughout the year has been inspiring. Your deep commitment to SLU LAW continues to give me such pride. 

Despite everything, there was tremendous goodness in 2020, and that is ultimately what will define this experience for us. Thank you for being part of that. I look forward to the year ahead with hope and great expectations.

Sincerely,

William P. Johnson
Dean and Professor of Law