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Capital University in Columbus, Ohio, invites nominations and expressions of interest for the role of Dean of the Law School with an anticipated appointment beginning summer 2026.   Located in the dynamic city of Columbus, the Law School offers the next Dean the opportunity to lead a committed faculty and staff to define and broadcast its distinctive history and strengths, and to chart a path forward that celebrates the Law School’s founding in 1903 as a YMCA law school established to give working people access to legal education. The next Dean will be tasked with strengthening the school’s resources and ensuring continued student success through bolstering community and donor relationships and building innovative academic programs.

Capital University Law School is one of the largest law schools in Ohio. It is located in downtown Columbus and plays a vital role in the city and the region. The vast majority of its alumni practice law within a 50-mile radius. Capital Law’s founding mandate—to provide access to a high-quality legal education that prepares students to be practice-ready lawyers—still resonates today, and it serves as a differentiator in the legal education market. The faculty and staff embrace the mission, dedicating themselves to innovative teaching methods and to supporting the success of a diverse student body.

The Dean will be an engaged leader who embraces innovative thinking, fosters a sense of community, and optimizes Capital Law’s location, tradition, and surrounding resources. The ideal candidate will bring a track record of building relationships with potential donors and partnering with community leaders to establish forward-looking programs. The Dean will work across the University to create synergies with other programs and individuals to further strengthen the Law School. The overarching opportunity for the next Dean is developing funding opportunities and working with all stakeholders at the Law School to develop a distinctive profile for Capital Law that leverages the vitality and growth of Columbus and the Law School’s foundational mission of access and producing practice-ready lawyers.

The next Dean of Capital University Law School will be instrumental in shaping the future of Capital. The Law School is an essential entry point into the University community, a historic engine of access and mobility in Central Ohio, and a deeply rooted partner in the legal, governmental, corporate, and nonprofit ecosystems of Columbus. The next Dean must build on these strengths while steering Capital Law through rapidly evolving regulatory, financial and professional landscapes.

To learn more about Capital University, Capital University Law School, the Dean opportunity, and the required and preferred qualifications sought in the next Dean, please review the search profile linked above.

Academic Search is partnering with Capital University Law School in this search. Confidential discussions about the position are encouraged and may be arranged by contacting Dr. Pam Balch: pam.balch@academicsearch.org

Applications, nominations, and inquiries should be sent to CapitalDeanLaw@academicsearch.org.

To apply, candidates should prepare a letter of interest addressing the leadership agenda and desired qualities, characteristics, and experiences outlined in the profile. Also required is a current curriculum vitae or resume. References will be requested later in the search. The position is open until filled, but only applications received by February 13, 2026, will be guaranteed full consideration.

Capital University is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive campus community.

Capital University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, religion, sex, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by the law.