Gregory W. Bowman | Dean, Roger Williams University School of Law
1. What is the mission of the law school and how may that change with you as the new dean? The mission of the law school will continue to be what it’s always been: to prepare the lawyers and leaders of the future for success in the public and private sectors, to serve the public, to pursue justice, and to promote the rule of law. It’s a mission I am proud to be part of.
2. The outlook for law school graduates has changed dramatically in the past 15 years. How do you advise third-year students to prepare for more competition? At RWU Law, we work with each and every student to help them identify the career path of their choosing. Why did they come to law school? How do they want to make the world a better place? What are the legal tools – the theoretical grounding and practical know-how – that they will need to pursue and realize their dreams? It’s a process that begins on day one.
3. What should business and community leaders expect from the law school? Is there a relationship that can be strengthened? Success for the modern law school requires successful partnerships and collaborations with law firms, businesses, government entities, nonprofit organizations and communities. From its inception, RWU Law has cultivated many mutually beneficial relationships in Rhode Island and beyond, and we will continue to expand and deepen these ties.
4. In what ways has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the law school? The pandemic has affected everything we do. We have adapted and innovated in our teaching, scholarly outreach and service. This fall, we’re holding classes both online and in person, with appropriate safety protocols in place. Student-organization meetings, faculty and staff meetings, employee visits, and symposia are being held online.
5. You have a background in economics and international trade. Will the pandemic have a long-term impact on Rhode Island’s economy? The pandemic will affect our lives for years to come. People and businesses are questioning long-held assumptions about working from home, flex time and work-life balance, and we will see many changes in the way we do business as a result. A more digital and remote economy will present significant challenges, but a big potential upside is that the online market is truly global, and it is exciting to consider the possible benefits for Rhode Island. Those who best identify the risks and opportunities will benefit the most.
Mary MacDonald is a PBN staff writer. Contact her at Macdonald@PBN.com.
