Barbara Colombo

Barbara Colombo is an Assistant Professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, where she serves as Director of the Health Law Institute and the Health Care Compliance Certification Program. She has been instrumental in launching and leading the Health Care Compliance Certificate Program since 2012, focusing on strategic growth and patient safety advocacy.

• B.S., R.N., cum laude, College of St. Teresa
• J.D., cum laude, William Mitchell College of Law

Colombo’s research interests revolve around the intersection of legal frameworks and healthcare delivery systems, particularly in compliance, ethics, and regulatory mechanisms that ensure cost-effective, high-quality care. Her career spans academia, legislative health policy, and direct patient care, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to health law.

She previously worked as an Assistant Commissioner in the Minnesota Department of Health, where she spearheaded comprehensive healthcare reform laws. Her leadership roles extend to organizations like the Minnesota Racing Commission and the Animal Humane Society, emphasizing her commitment to healthcare and welfare advocacy.