Noel Wolfe

Noel Wolfe is an Associate Professor and Director of the Legal Studies Undergraduate Program at Nazareth College's History, Politics, and Law Department. With a Ph.D. from Fordham University, J.D. from Tulane University Law School, and B.A. from Franklin & Marshall College, she combines legal expertise with historical scholarship. Her research focuses on 20th-century African American history, law's role in social justice, and grassroots responses to drug crises. She emphasizes student-centered teaching, including student-led discussions and collaborative classroom environments. Previously a practicing trial attorney for nearly a decade, Wolfe advocates for interdisciplinary approaches and community engagement aligned with Nazareth's liberal arts mission.

Education:

• Ph.D., Fordham University
• J.D., Tulane University Law School
• B.A., Franklin & Marshall College

Research Interests: Wolfe examines how law intersects with race, gender, and sexual identity, particularly in contexts of oppression and resistance. Her work analyzes historical and contemporary drug policy impacts on communities, leveraging interdisciplinary methods to bridge legal, sociological, and historical perspectives. She emphasizes experiential learning through courses like 'Drugs in American Culture' and 'Legal Studies Seminar - History of Incarceration.'

Teaching Philosophy: Wolfe prioritizes minimizing classroom hierarchies by incorporating student feedback and co-creating curricula. Weekly student-led classes foster ownership of learning, preparing students for professional and academic rigor while emphasizing critical thinking and social justice awareness.

Professional Background: A former rugby player and avid reader (consuming 4-5 books weekly), Wolfe transitioned from a decade-long career as a trial attorney to academia, reflecting her commitment to diverse career paths. Colleagues praise her dedication to both teaching and research within Nazareth's collaborative environment.