Dana A. Thompson

Dana A. Thompson is a Clinical Professor of Law at the University of Michigan Law School, where she directs the Transactional Law Clinics Program, the Detroit-based Community Enterprise Clinic, and co-founded the Zell Entrepreneurship Clinic. Her work focuses on advancing economic, racial, and social justice in urban communities through transactional legal support for nonprofits, cooperatives, and startups.

• Education: BA from Bryn Mawr College, JD from the University of Michigan Law School.

Thompson’s research and teaching emphasize urban entrepreneurship, community development, and the intersection of law with social equity. She trains law students in hands-on client representation, emphasizing historical and political contexts shaping urban challenges.

Her leadership roles include serving on the Wayne State University Board of Governors (elected in 2014), TechTown Detroit, and Voters Not Politicians. She has also held prominent positions in ABA committees related to community development and legal education.

Thompson’s clinics engage in extensive community outreach, including workshops and a blog addressing legal issues for small businesses and nonprofits. She was instrumental in launching the Common Wealth Podcast in 2025 to further explore urban enterprise topics.