Making an Impact

Last fall, Washburn Law enrolled its largest class in more than a decade, and this fall an equally large class is anticipated with even better academic credentials thanks to a robust scholarship program that unlocks student opportunities for achievement and success. In addition, Professor Michelle Ewert was recently named the Shelia Reynolds Chair for the Washburn Law Clinic. These endowed chairs help to provide the funding that fosters academic excellence through innovative programming, campus speakers, and immersive teaching practices. This summer, nearly 30 Washburn Law students are spending their time in rural communities throughout Kansas as part of the Hansen and Patterson rural externship programs. Participants in these programs gain valuable experience as externs and help address the shrinking number of attorneys in rural communities, fortifying Kansans’ ability to obtain legal representation.

What do these have in common? They are representative of the ways in which Washburn Law remains focused on student opportunities, teaching excellence, and real-world learning and service. And they are emblematic of where Washburn Law is heading.

Last fall, Jeff Jackson, BBA ’89, JD ’92, James M. Concannon Dean and Professor of Law, formed a group of law school faculty and staff to partner with AGB Consulting on a strategic communications project to update the law school’s mission, vision, and values, using the strategic plan previously developed by faculty. The results of this process will guide decision making in a manner consistent with the strategic direction of the law school and keep the focus on the future of the law school and the advancement of the institution.

“Our law school has endured for more than 120 years,” said Jackson. “And we want to make sure we are doing our part to make certain Washburn Law is around for another 120 years. The driving force behind this initiative was to be proactive in laying the groundwork for that longevity as we navigate the challenges faced by universities across the country.”

One of the challenges he’s referencing is what many law schools have been facing for several years: stagnant or even declining enrollment. While both Washburn University and Washburn Law have experienced record-breaking enrollment increases in recent years, the sustainability of those numbers is not guaranteed.

“We’re an anomaly right now,” explained Jackson. “It’s been fun to be a part of this historic growth. But we cannot assume we will be in the same position in 10, 20, or even 50 years from now. This strategic framework we are establishing right now puts us in the best position possible for the future.”

As part of the planning process, the committee used a SWOT analysis to evaluate strengths, areas for improvement, and opportunities for growth.

The strengths highlighted by the committee were the personalized attention received by students, experiential learning opportunities and externships, and renowned faculty. None of these strengths should come as a surprise. Current students and alumni regularly share stories about the personal attention experienced at Washburn. An afternoon study session with Professor Alex Glasshauser, summer externship secured thanks to Professor Joe Mastrosimone, and in-depth discussion about family law with Professor Linda Elrod, BA ’69, JD ’72, are all examples of the individualized experiences our students have come to expect. These assets are well documented and continue to facilitate growth at the law school.

“The small class sizes, experiential learning, and faculty are what set Washburn Law apart,” said Patrick Mikesic, executive director of development and alumni relations for the law school and member of the task force. “We hear from alumni all the time about their experience both in and out of the classroom while a student at Washburn. It’s part of why alumni continue to refer prospective students and invest their time, talent, and treasure in Washburn Law.”

Experiences such as Third Year Anywhere, the Washburn Law Clinic, and externships and associate programs are all part of the Washburn Law student experience. Each of these opportunities are also part of what helps make law grads practice-ready when they leave law school. 

While building on the strengths of Washburn Law is a priority, focusing on opportunities for improvement and growth is also a key part of the strategic framework. For example, Washburn Law can capitalize on trends in legal education and practice regarding AI integration, being deliberate about online course offerings, and leveraging the newly created Center for Intellectual Property & Technology Law to attract new students and partners.

“We are dedicated to fostering innovation and preparing our students for the ever-evolving fields of intellectual property and technology law,” said Patricia Judd, Kurt M. Sager Memorial Professor of Law and director for the center and member of the task force. “We offer a robust platform for skills-based training, cutting-edge programming and scholarly opportunities, allowing students to focus their studies on this critical area and gain a competitive edge in the job market.”

While faculty at the law school continue to develop a plan that will contribute to the students’ success after law school, they’re also looking at ways to increase the presence of the law school on a national scale. Even though Washburn Law is well-regarded within the region, recognition on a national level would only serve to benefit the law school.

“The more we can spread the word about Washburn Law and the education people can receive here, the more we can continue to grow and keep preparing the next generation of lawyers,” Jackson said. “Ideally, we want Washburn Law to be recognized from coast to coast as a leader in legal education.”

As part of the new strategic framework, Jackson reiterated that the law school will remain focused on three areas that have always been a hallmark at Washburn and make up the law school’s new mission statement: Personalized Learning, Pioneering Scholarship, and Professional Success. Remaining focused on these priorities ensures the school will continue to develop outstanding lawyers who advocate with integrity and positively impact their communities. These new pieces of the puzzle will continue to pay respect to everything the law school stands for while providing more concise messaging to students, alumni, and the community. The clearer the message, the easier it is to convey to others.

“I want each of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni to feel comfortable sharing what Washburn Law is all about,” said Jackson. “The more we work together to spread the word, the better prepared we will be for challenges that may come our way down the road. As I said before, it’s about ensuring the law school endures past our time here.”