A World of Experience

When Lécia Jandira António Vicente first began studying philosophy as a teenager in Portugal, she didn’t yet know her path would lead her across continents and into a classroom at Washburn University School of Law. But even then, her natural curiosity and analytical mindset were already taking shape, guiding her toward a career in law and, ultimately, to Topeka. 

Her teaching journey unfolded across an impressive range of institutions, including positions at European University Institute, Louisiana State University Law Center and the University of Camerino in Italy. Along the way, she developed not only her scholarly voice but also a deep appreciation for the relationships and diverse perspectives that shape legal education.

“Every place I have worked has been unique,” Vicente said. “Finding my voice as an academic and seeing my students accomplish their dreams have been particularly meaningful.”

Before entering academia, Vicente practiced at international law firms, an experience that continues to inform her teaching. She brings a pragmatic lens to the classroom, emphasizing the human dimension of legal problem-solving and the real-world impact attorneys can have at local, national and global levels. 

Having started this spring as an associate professor at Washburn, Vicente teaches with an eye toward the future of the legal profession. In a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence, she encourages students to build strong analytical and adaptability skills, along with the ability to apply legal knowledge in nuanced, context-driven ways. Her academic focus spans business law, transactional law and comparative law, helping students understand the complexity of today’s global legal environment. 

Central to her current scholarship is a concept she calls “legal pleiotropy,” inspired by biology. Just as a single gene can produce multiple effects, Vicente argues that legal mechanisms, particularly in contract law, can create unintended consequences. Understanding and anticipating those effects, she says, is a critical skill for modern lawyers.

Vicente’s international experience extends beyond academia. She has advised organizations within the United Nations system and participated in the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Those experiences reinforced her belief that impactful research must connect to real-world decision-making. In turn, she has brought that philosophy into her teaching, developing courses and modules that link international law with areas like business and even sport. 

Her comparative perspective is shaped by work across legal systems in Portugal, Angola, Mozambique, Brazil and the United States. Despite their differences, she noted, many systems strive toward similar goals, which is an insight she finds both fascinating and instructive for students. 

Now in Topeka, Vicente says she was immediately drawn to Washburn’s close-knit community and small class sizes. Her first impressions of students have been equally positive: hardworking, engaged and eager to learn.

Looking ahead, Vicente hopes to make a meaningful impact at Washburn while supporting students in pursuit of their professional goals and contributing to the school’s broader mission. For those interested in international or comparative law, her advice is simple: travel, learn languages, think creatively and don’t be afraid to take risks.