LSAC Dean’s Handbook

This chapter introduces the handbook with a welcome message from the editor-in-chief, Vivian Bowden, offering insights into the handbook’s purpose and its commitment to providing practical tools, expert insights, and strategic guidance. The chapter concludes with biographies of the contributing authors, whose expertise underscores the value of this essential guide for navigating the challenges of legal education leadership.

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Highlighting the critical partnership between law school deans and general counsel (GC), this chapter focuses on building trust to navigate complex legal, political, and social challenges. It offers practical tips for fostering this relationship and outlines key legal and compliance areas where the GC’s guidance can help deans reduce risks, avoid costly litigation, and support the law school’s mission.

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This chapter offers a guide to creating effective admission policies and navigating the application cycle. It covers the variation in admission office structures, key stages of the process, and commonly asked questions. With an overview of the typical admission timeline, including planning, recruitment, and yield strategies, this chapter provides a concise framework for managing law school admissions.

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Exploring the strategic process of attracting, enrolling, and retaining students from their first inquiry through graduation, this chapter highlights the importance of aligning enrollment efforts with your law school’s mission and strategic plan while emphasizing key metrics, the roles of various offices, and effective budgeting. It also provides a framework for creating a cohesive, school-wide approach to building and sustaining a strong student body.

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Examining the vital role of data in law school decision-making and rankings, this chapter emphasizes the importance of accurate data collection, analysis, and interpretation to inform sound strategies and ensure financial success. It also explores key data sources and complexities in tracking enrollment and revenue, and provides insights into the U.S. News & World Report rankings methodology, including z-scores. By highlighting the importance of accuracy and consistency, it equips deans to draw meaningful conclusions and avoid common pitfalls in data interpretation.

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This chapter provides a comprehensive guide to the tools and services available to support law school deans and their teams. It includes a Master Glossary of Terms along with the community’s Statement of Good Admission Practices (SOGAP) and detailed information on the LSAT, Unite, LSAC Services. It also serves as a valuable reference, ensuring deans have the knowledge and resources needed to navigate critical aspects of legal education administration effectively.

Read more in Resources for Law Schools

Emphasizing the vital role of career services in supporting students and preparing them for the realities of the legal job market, this chapter highlights the importance of building trust early, framing legal careers as long-term pathways, and addressing the emotional and financial stakes of employment outcomes. With a fully supported career services team and a school-wide commitment to career development, law schools can foster student success, happier alumni, and stronger institutional support.

Read more about The Legal Employment Landscape and Career Services

Effective decanal communication is vital for shaping a law school’s vision and credibility. A strong strategy should engage students through teaching, informal gatherings, and personalized outreach, while faculty benefit from transparent updates and recognition. Staff need regular team meetings and one-on-one check-ins, and alumni require consistent messaging and personal interaction to foster loyalty and philanthropy. Maintaining close ties with central administration ensures alignment and support. Across all audiences, the dean must communicate ethically, empathetically, and consistently to advance institutional priorities.

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This chapter explains why building and maintaining a strong leadership team is critical for law school deans facing today’s complex challenges. It highlights servant leadership, inclusion, and trust as foundations for success, while offering practical steps for structuring teams, recruiting talent, setting goals, and managing time effectively. By fostering collaboration and constructive dialogue, deans can avoid blind spots, enhance decision-making, and create a positive, results-driven culture. Teambuilding is presented as an ongoing, intentional process essential for institutional stability and innovation.

Read more about Building and Maintaining an Effective Leadership Team

This chapter outlines strategies for law schools to build effective marketing and communications plans that strengthen visibility and engagement. It emphasizes consistent branding across all platforms, tailored messaging for diverse audiences, and leveraging tools like LSAC’s Unite for admissions outreach. Key topics include optimizing websites, structuring impactful emails, planning events, and integrating digital and print marketing. By adopting a multi-channel approach and fostering collaboration across departments, law schools can enhance reputation, attract students, and maintain strong alumni and donor relationships.

Read more about Promoting Your Law School Through Marketing & Communications