UT Law Dean Featured In UToday

UToday July 25, 2006

Douglas E. Ray started his job as the UT College of Law's 16th dean this month. He looks forward to leading the college, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, into its second century, working with the community to continue the college's steady climb.

"I accepted this position because I think the College of Law has a bright and positive future," said Ray, who taught at the UT College of Law from 1981 to 1998. "My hope is to spend much of the next academic year working with the faculty, staff and alumni in a planning process to ensure that we make the most of our opportunities and continue the college's progress."

Ray returns to the College of Law following six and one-half years of service as dean of the Widener University School of Law and as vice president of Widener University. At Widener, he was responsible for law school campuses in Wilmington, Del., and Harrisburg, Pa., with more than 1,500 students.

As UT College of Law dean, one area of focus will be expanding opportunities for students to engage in public interest work, building upon the college's rich heritage of clinical programs, as well as upon student enthusiasm for using their legal education to help others.

"The college's clinic programs and public service externships give students the opportunity to serve the poor, learn practical skills, build confidence, and learn that a lawyer can make a big difference in a person's life," Ray said.