Summary: University of Cincinnati chooses their first female dean in their 182-year history.
The University of Cincinnati, a 182-year old “hidden gem” in its own esteem, hopes to become a well-known gem with the help of their freshly chosen dean, the first woman in its long history, Jennifer S. Bard.
Citing her impressive list of credentials, UC Provost Beverly Davenport cheered the decision to bring Bard to prominence, saying, “I am absolutely thrilled to be able to appoint the first female dean of this law school in its 182-year history. She is appointed because she is hands down the most qualified and best fit for our school,” as she said to WCPO. “It’s her breadth, it’s her experience and her cross-disciplinary experience that is so compelling to me.”
She is referring to bard’s experience as special assistant to the provost at Texas Tech University in Lubbock where she is also a law professor directing their JD/MD program. At UC she will teach at their College of Medicine as well, enlightening her classes on the topic of public health and bioethics. Her JD hales from Yale.
Doloris Learmonth, a UC law alumni and part of the dean search committee, highlighting her interest in Bard’s appeal to the alumni and business community.
“I appreciated her sense of energy and enthusiasm. She really has a passion for higher education and a very engaging way about her that I think will be very welcome.”
“It is an honor to be selected as the next Dean of the University of Cincinnati College of Law,” said Bard. “Cincinnati is a vibrant and exciting city and its University and Law School are well known for their history of excellence and innovation.”
Indeed, she is glad to be aboard: she chose UC over three other top law schools across the country.
As the first female law dean at the old university, the school is anticipating a change in tone for their programs. “After 192 years, it’s due time,” said Davenport.