The Willamette University College of Law is bringing new experts to the school. Six new professors have joined the faculty, bringing with them their unique expertise. This includes two renowned law professors, one of whom is Dean Emeritus of the university.
A third-year student is among those who will benefit from this newly launched program. Attorney Gretchen McCord specializes in copyright and privacy law. She recently attended a CLE on “Blockchain for Lawyers.” During the CLE, Professor Jaipat Jain led a discussion on the building blocks of the technology behind smart contracts. He also covered regulatory issues surrounding cryptocurrencies.
Attorney Warren Binford has a vision for improving conditions for children at the United States border facilities. His team of lawyers finds hundreds of neglected children and shines a light on the dangerous conditions they face. In addition, Binford is the founder of the Lawyers & Leadership course, which provides a unique approach to legal education. Through this course, graduates are prepared for leadership roles and careers.
Other notable faculty members include Iona Silverman, a multi-law firm lawyer, and Professor Kelly Gamble, who is the director of the Academic Excellence program. These two will be honored as valectors for the Class of 2021.
Former Oregon Governor Jim Averill and his wife, Pat, have contributed to the Annual Fund of Willamette Law for 34 years. Their contributions will help students get a leg up on their career through increased access to high-level employment opportunities. Another alumnus, Dustin Buehler, has been appointed to teach Civil Procedure in the fall.
Willamette Law’s faculty continues to expand its global reach. Two of its latest professors are international, including a business expert and an expert on health care. Both of these scholars have practiced abroad and bring international experience and knowledge to the College of Law. One of the two will serve as a visiting professor for the 2021-22 academic year.
Another faculty member teaches criminal law. Laura Appleman trains students in this field, helping them prepare to take on criminal cases in their future careers. And the law library is being revamped with a new director. There are also several new multimedia storytelling tools.
The College of Law has added a sixth certificate to its offerings. The Health Law Certificate prepares future attorneys for a changing health care landscape. It will be offered to both undergraduate and graduate students.
With a storied history, Willamette Law has made its mark on the legal world. In the past six years, it has recorded the highest employment numbers in Oregon. Additionally, it has promoted 10 of its professors to tenure.
Willamette Law is known for its commitment to a holistic approach to legal education. Students learn how to ask the right questions and work with each other in a respectful way. It has a strong emphasis on shared ownership in reopening efforts. Continuing that legacy, Willamette has a new Signature Strengths Initiative.
Willamette Law students have the opportunity to participate in the Externship Program. This is a paid experiential learning program that gives them the opportunity to work in real-world settings and to provide hands-on assistance to clients.