Legal education leader at Cardozo School adopts comprehensive methodology for student learning
Cardozo Law School Thriving Under Dean Melanie Leslie's Leadership
Cardozo Law School, one of the newer law schools in the country and the second-newest in New York City, is making waves under the leadership of Dean Melanie Leslie. Founded in 1976, the school has been growing in reputation, particularly in the field of intellectual property law, clinics, and public service offerings.
Leslie, who returned to Cardozo after practicing commercial litigation and clerking in the New Jersey Supreme Court, felt an affinity for the school due to its energy and intellectual diversity. This vibrant atmosphere is reminiscent of a startup, as described by the school's culture.
During her tenure, Cardozo Law School encountered campus crossfire when the school's Federalist Society hosted a controversial talk by high-profile lawyer Alan Dershowitz. Despite the controversy, Leslie has been focusing on fostering a sense of community and individual development, shifting away from a competitive pipeline into the industry.
One of Leslie's key objectives is expanding scholarship opportunities for students, especially those pursuing careers in public service law but burdened by student loans. She is also working to add a new immigration justice program and a criminal defense clinic on the death penalty.
The FAME program, a spinoff of fashion, art, music, and entertainment law, was formalized by Leslie. This program features a speaker series with high-profile business executives like shoe mogul Stuart Weitzman, fashion designer Steve Madden, and record executive Clive Davis. Famous celebrities such as Jay-Z and Mary J. Blige have visited the FAME program to provide students with insights into the business side of the creative industries.
Cardozo Law School's intellectual property law program has since expanded to include technology, communications, and privacy law. Leslie emphasizes the importance of free speech and encourages students to learn from their peers who think differently from them.
In response to ICE's aggressive enforcement tactics, Cardozo Law School has created a new immigration program to provide training on habeas corpus rights. The school has also seen a 20 percent national increase in law school applicants this year, with a higher proportion of older students.
Leslie aims to address the lack of understanding of civics and government among people, which she believes is crucial for the functioning of the legal system. She is working to expand the school's footprint and continue its growth, making Cardozo Law School a dynamic and influential institution in the legal world.
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