Melinda Saran

Melinda Saran is a Teaching Professor and serves as Vice Dean for Undergraduate Student Affairs and Interim Vice Dean for Undergraduate Studies at the University at Buffalo School of Law. She teaches Legal Profession and Ethics, Special Education Law, and a colloquium for J.D./MSW dual-degree students.

Education:

• B.A. in Psychology, cum laude, University of Rochester (1986)
• Master’s of Public Health
• J.D., University at Buffalo School of Law

Her research focuses on disability rights advocacy, special education legal frameworks, and ethical standards in legal practice, with applied work training educators, attorneys, and families on disability law compliance.

Awards and Honors:

• Hannah Cohn Pro Bono Award (2007)
• Lawyer of the Year, Women Lawyers of Western New York (2008)

She previously directed the Special Education Law Clinic and contributed to legal manuals on disability benefits and student discipline, emphasizing practical advocacy for marginalized communities.