معرفی
Robert William “Bill” Piatt is a Professor of Law at St. Mary’s University School of Law, where he previously served as Dean from 1998 to 2007. His career spans over five decades, including roles in private practice, legal education, and advocacy for Indigenous communities. Piatt is renowned for his scholarship on human rights, particularly the legal rights of non-federally recognized Indigenous peoples, and the intersection of Catholic faith with legal systems. He has authored ten books and dozens of articles, earning prestigious awards such as the Gustavus Myers Center’s Outstanding Book Award for *Black and Brown in America* (1998) and *Language on the Job* (1994).
His research interests include constitutional law, immigration reform, language policy, and ethical legal practices. Piatt’s work often bridges academic and practical domains, such as his analyses of faith-based legal education programs and state indigent defense systems. He has also contributed to public discourse through media commentary on topics ranging from Supreme Court legacies to public health crises like Ebola.
Piatt’s educational background includes a B.A. from Eastern New Mexico University (1972) and a J.D. from the University of New Mexico (1975). Licensed to practice in Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas (inactive), he teaches courses on constitutional law, legal ethics, and human trafficking. His awards reflect both scholarly excellence and community impact, including the Outstanding Alumni Award from Eastern New Mexico University (1997).
