Saint Louis University Begins Search for Next Dean of the School of Law

Saint Louis University Provost Michael Lewis has appointed a 14-member committee to identify candidates for the position of dean of Saint Louis University School of Law.

Dean William P. Johnson will step down on June 30, 2024. Johnson has served as dean since 2017 and previously served as the director of the School of Law’s Center for International and Comparative Law. With a deep commitment to social and racial justice, Johnson placed an emphasis on increasing diversity and equity within the law school community during his tenure. Under his leadership the School of Law’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion was expanded, an alumni dean’s council for diversity, equity and inclusion was established, and deepening relationships with affinity bars have led to increased scholarship opportunities for students.

“A successful candidate would share both Dean Johnson’s and the University’s commitment to institutional and community service as well as social justice,” says Rochelle Smith, co-chair of the search committee and vice president of diversity and innovative community engagement for the University. “We are looking for someone with a passion for academic excellence, inclusion, and intellectual inquiry that will take the success of the School of Law even further.”

Other members of the search committee are:

Brendan Roediger; co-chair; associate dean for experiential education; professor, School of Law; director, Civil Advocacy Clinic 
Kathryn Banks; associate professor, School of Law; director, Children’s Permanency Clinic
Belinda Dantley; assistant dean for diversity, equity and inclusion, School of Law
The Honorable Jimmie Edwards, (A&S ’78), (Law ’81); attorney, Lashly & Baer, P.C.; retired 22nd St. Louis Judicial Circuit Court judge
Dr. Noelle Fearn; dean, School of Social Work
Rob Gatter; professor; School of Law; director, Center for Health Law Studies
Marcia Goldsmith; professor, School of Law
Marsha Griggs; associate professor, School of Law
Sam Jordan; professor, School of Law
Camilla Moreno Jimenez; student, School of Law
Shannon Morse; assistant dean for administration, School of Law
Kerry Ryan; associate professor, School of Law 
David Suwalsky, SJ; vice president of mission and ministry, Saint Louis University; department chair; Theological Studies
Josh Zoeller; student, School of Law