معرفی
Patricia Roberts serves as the Dean and Charles E. Cantú Distinguished Professor of Law at St. Mary’s School of Law. Over two decades, she has focused on clinical teaching and advocating for underserved communities. As Dean, she spearheaded the launch of the first ABA-accredited online J.D. program, enhanced student support initiatives, and advanced diversity through the Lawtina Network Summit. Her leadership includes creating the First Generation Bootcamp and Mentor Circles, alongside strategic planning for the Law School’s Centennial in 2027.
She holds a B.A. in Biology and Psychology from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College (1989) and a J.D. from William & Mary Law School (1992). Before becoming Dean, she held roles at William & Mary, including Vice Dean and Director of Clinical Programs, overseeing clinics in veterans’ benefits, elder law, and special education advocacy.
Roberts is a national leader in veterans’ legal advocacy, founding Military Mondays and the National Law School Veterans Clinic Consortium. She hosts the Aspen Leading Edge and EdUp Legal podcasts, focusing on legal education innovation. Her honors include Fellowships with the San Antonio Bar Foundation (2023), American Bar Foundation (2017), and Virginia Law Foundation (2016).
Her initiatives emphasize access to justice, interprofessional collaboration, and educational equity. She has secured significant funding for programs like the Special Education Advocacy Summit and led efforts to integrate veterans into legal practice through pro bono networks.
