Law Schools
Berkeley Law dean Chemerinsky extends contract, citing ‘unprecedented moment’ in history of democracy
Erwin Chemerinsky, the dean of the University of California at Berkeley School of Law, speaks during a lecture at the university in October 2019. (Photo by Jeff Chiu/The Associated Press)
Erwin Chemerinsky will remain the dean of University of California at Berkeley School of Law for two additional years.
Chemerinsky, an ABA Journal columnist, has worked as the dean for nine years and had planned to end his tenure in June 2027.
During his extension through June 30, 2029, he will prioritize strengthening the school’s long-term financial picture, as well as its involvement in defending the rule of law and encouraging the school to consider options to “think big,” according to an April 13 press release from the law school.
“Most of all, I want to use this additional time as dean to encourage us all to think big about what we can do to position Berkeley Law to truly make a difference in legal education, the legal system and society,” Chemerinsky wrote in a message to the school community. “It is essential that Berkeley Law play a crucial role at this unprecedented moment in the history of our democracy.”
In January, alumni, faculty and friends of the school wrote to Chemerinsky pledging support for this extended term to ensure that it’s “one of lasting influence and stability,” according to the press release.
The extension will make Chemerinsky one of the longest-serving deans in Berkeley Law’s history, according to the press release.
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