SEALS 2024 Conference Schedule

New Scholars Workshop
Civil Procedure and Torts

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Katherine Macfarlane [ Syracuse University College of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Christopher Brett Jaeger: Mapping Reasonableness [ Baylor University Law School ] ( Mentor: Professor Joseph Blocher [Duke University School of Law] ); Professor Donna Schwab: Relation Back and the Revival of Dead Claims [ Southern University Law Center ] ( Mentor: Professor Missy Lonegrass [Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center] ); Professor Travis Ramey: Interlocutory Appeals in Complex Litigation [ The University of Alabama School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor LaJuana Davis [Samford University Cumberland School of Law] ); Professor Rachel Koehn Breland: Restoring Permissive Intervention [ South Texas College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Brannon Denning [Samford University Cumberland School of Law] )

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Navigating the Hiring Process

This panel is part of the Prospective Law Teachers Workshop but is open to all SEALS participants. Panelists discuss strategies to navigate the hiring market for law professors. Topics include the NEAR form; the Faculty Appointments Register form; the hiring process, including screening interviews and on-campus callbacks; the “job talk"; and post-offer negotiations. Prior to this panel presentation, workshop participants are encouraged to attend the Aspiring Law Teachers Workshop: Introduction to the Academy, to gain an overall insight into law teaching.

Moderator: Professor Saleema Snow [ University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law ]

New Scholars Workshop
Constitutional and Administrative Law

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Maurice Hew [ Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Gwendolyn Savitz: Procedural Injuries and Standing to Challenge a Denial of a Petition for Rulemaking [ University of Tulsa College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Jean Steadman [Charleston School of Law] ); Professor Jacob Charles: Rights Adjuncts [ Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Brannon Denning [Samford University Cumberland School of Law] ); Professor Jason B. Thrower: No Longer Separate, but Still Unequal! The Fight for Equity in Funding at Land-Grant Institutions and the Implications of the Equal Protection Clause in Leveling the Higher Education Playing Field [ Southern University Law Center ] ( Mentor: Professor LaJuana Davis [Samford University Cumberland School of Law] ); Professor Michael L. Smith: Pluralism in State Constitutional Interpretation [ St. Mary's University School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Brian Owsley [University of North Texas at Dallas College of Law] )

New Scholars Workshop
Criminal Law

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Maybell Romero [ Tulane University Law School ]

Panelists: Professor Alex Sinha: Hidden Takings and the Communal Burden of Punishment [ Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University ] ( Mentor: Professor Jalila Jefferson-Bullock [Wayne State University Law School] ); Professor Joe Dunman: The Constitutional Paradox of Religion-Based Insanity Defenses [ University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Stephen Galoob [University of Tulsa College of Law] ); Professor Kaleb Byars: Deferring Fairness: How Deferred Prosecution Agreements and Non-Prosecution Agreements Create Incongruities in Organizational Sentencing and Proposed Solutions [ Mercer University School of Law ] ( Mentor: Dean Larry Cunningham [Charleston School of Law] )

New Scholars Workshop
Race, Gender, and the Law

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Iva Ferrell [ Widener University Delaware Law School ]

Panelists: Professor Tiffany Atkins: If I Wasn't Black, I Wouldn't Be Unfit [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Zanita Fenton [University of Miami School of Law] ); Professor Jocelyn B. Cazares Willingham: The Illusion of Objectivity: Anti-Gang Political Opinions in Humanitarian Protection Claims [ University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Jay Kesten [Florida State University College of Law] ); Professor Ciji Dodds: The Constitution as a Racial Contract [ Albany Law School ] ( Mentor: Professor Akram Faizer [Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law] ); Professor Em Wright: Gender Judgment Affirmed? Judicial Rhetoric and Transgender Rights [ Stetson University College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Amanda Bertrand [Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law] )

A Conversation with Research Deans and Flourishing Scholars

This discussion group among faculty and research deans explores motivations and incentives for scholarly productivity and sustained interest over the arc of their academic careers. A varied group of scholars examines successful methods for navigating faculty colloquia, draft circulation, submission, ultimate publication, social media, and continued dialogue. Research deans and thriving scholars explore techniques for cultivating a thoughtful research agenda and executing for meaningful impact in the field and the real world. The conversation covers stipends, grants, alt funding, and pro bono contributions. It also includes unconventional advice for scholarly engagement and fulfillment. The group concludes with recommendations for how law schools might best support faculty attain their goals, from traditional to far-reaching.

Moderator: Professor Lucas Osborn [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Stacey Tovino [ The University of Oklahoma College of Law ]; Professor Caprice Roberts [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Ryan Stoa [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Marc Roark [ University of Tulsa College of Law ]; Professor Colin Marks [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]; Professor Vanessa Zboreak [ Jacksonville University College of Law ]; Professor Brannon Denning [ Samford University Cumberland School of Law ]; Professor Mitchell Crusto [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]; Professor Darren Bush [ University of Houston Law Center ]; Professor Louis Virelli [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Dean ándre douglas pond cummings [ Widener University Commonwealth Law School ]; Professor Saurabh Vishnubhakat [ Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law of Yeshiva University ]; Professor Linda Jellum [ University of Idaho College of Law ]; Professor Shalini Bhargava Ray [ The University of Alabama School of Law ]

Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, and the Legacies of Slavery

Modern scholars recognize that de jure slavery before the Civil War (and de facto slavery afterwards) left traces in the criminal legal system today. As noted by the NAACP, one example is how "the origins of modern day policing can be traced back to the 'Slave Patrol.'" The members of this discussion group present their research and reflections inspired by their work in progress about issues related to the need for reforms in the fields of criminal law or criminal procedure. They also share their insights regarding the ways in which some legacy of slavery, broadly defined, may be detected in the workings of the criminal legal system today.

Moderator: Professor Catherine Hancock [ Tulane University Law School ]

Discussants: Professor Cynthia Alkon [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Aliza Cover [ University of Idaho College of Law ]; Professor Jancy Hoeffel [ Tulane University Law School ]; Professor J.D. King [ Washington and Lee University School of Law ]; Professor Carla Laroche [ Tulane University Law School ]; Professor Melanie Reid [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]; Professor Neil Sobol [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Scott Sundby [ University of Miami School of Law ]; Professor Anna VanCleave [ University of Connecticut School of Law ]; Professor Mike Vitiello [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Rachel Wechsler [ University of Missouri School of Law ]

Break (sponsored by Carolina Academic Press)

Supreme Court Update - Individual Rights

This panel examines recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions and legislative developments on individual rights, particularly freedom of expression, religion, and equal protection.

Moderator: Professor Ediberto Roman [ Florida International University College of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Akram Faizer [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]; Professor Michael Dimino [ Widener University Commonwealth Law School ]; Professor Joseph Blocher [ Duke University School of Law ]; Professor Andrew Wright [ Wayne State University Law School ]

New Law Teachers Workshop
Training Session on Mentoring Law Students

More than ever, law professors are called on to mentor law students. This highly interactive program addresses effective mentoring, including how to establish a relationship with a student while maintaining appropriate boundaries; addressing issues common to modern law students (e.g., managing time, learning to be a self-regulated learner); handling stress (and knowing one's limits and when to refer students for professional help); encouraging students to maintain perspective; and exploring the areas of law in which the student's talents would best fit and in which the student would have a sense of purpose. The presenters work in small groups with the audience, perhaps including role-play, and provide hands-on guidance on being an effective mentor.

Moderator: Professor Natt Gantt [ High Point University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Benjamin Madison [ Regent University School of Law ]; Ms. Carwina Weng [ Law School Admission Council ]; Professor Daisy Floyd [ Mercer University School of Law ]

Aspiring Law Teachers Workshop
Screening Interviews: How to Secure Them and What to Expect

This panel exposes aspiring law teachers to ways that applicants can better increase their odds of securing a screening interview, along with the format and content of a typical screening interview for doctrinal, clinical, and legal writing positions. The group engages in an in-depth discussion with aspiring law teachers about question content, interviewing styles, and common mistakes made by applicants during screening interviews. Experienced faculty act as mock interviewers, while new members of the academy who have recently been through rigors of the job hiring market act as mock interviewees. This session is helpful to both those who are about to enter the job market and those still thinking about it.

Moderator: Professor Annie Scardulla [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Louis Virelli [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Joy Radice [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Latisha Nixon-Jones [ Jacksonville University College of Law ]; Professor Jack Harrison [ NKU Chase College of Law ]; Professor Vanessa Zboreak [ Jacksonville University College of Law ]; Professor Frank Cooper [ University of Nevada Law Boyd School of Law ]; Professor Christopher Buccafusco [ Duke University School of Law ]

New Scholars Workshop
Constitutional Law: Power and Procedure

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Patrick Metze [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Haley Palfreyman Jankowski: How to Dance the General Jurisdiction Two-Step [ South Texas College of Law Houston ] ( Mentor: Tim Canova [Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law] ); Professor Anthony Palermo: Data Breaches and Article III [ Stetson University College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Wes Henricksen [Barry University School of Law] ); Professor Vinita Singh: A De-risking Opportunity Through Tax Immunity? The Challenges of Modifying the Law of Immunity from Taxation to Effect National Security Goals [ University of Iowa College of Law ]

New Scholars Workshop
New Scholars Luncheon (sponsored by Aspen Publishing Co.)

New Scholars and their mentors are invited to attend. A ticket is required.

Call for Papers Luncheon (Sponsored by AccessLex Institute and Helix Bar Review)

Each year, SEALS hosts a Call for Papers competition and selects the best paper(s) for presentation. At this luncheon, Prof. Jane Bambauer presents her paper "How to Get the Property out of Privacy Law." Please join us for this presentation. Ticket is required.

Moderators: Professor Ronald Rychlak [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor Jane Bambauer [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]

Half-Told Stories: Recovering the Stories Disguised by Law

As James Boyd White has written, law “is a way of telling a story about what has happened in the world and claiming a meaning for it by writing an ending to it.” This panel examines how law inscribes those stories and how literature can function to recover the stories concealed or disguised by law and to illustrate law’s devastating “real-life” effects. For example, an archaeology of a will contest might reveal the movement of wealth from Native Americans to white settlers and a struggle for freedom by enslaved African-Americans.

Moderator: Professor Susan Ayres [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Laura E Bates [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Judy Cornett [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Richard Heppner [ Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University ]; Professor Kristin Kalsem [ University of Cincinnati College of Law ]; Professor Susan Tanner [ University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law ]; Professor Jorge Contreras [ The University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law ]

Supreme Court Update - Administrative, Corporate, and Securities Law

This panel provides an update on recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions, as well as legislative developments, dealing with administrative law, corporate and securities issues.

Moderator: Professor Darren Bush [ University of Houston Law Center ]

Panelists: Professor Linda Jellum [ University of Idaho College of Law ]; Professor Joan MacLeod Heminway [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor William Funk [ Lewis & Clark Law School ]

New and Forthcoming Books on Election Law

This panel allows authors of new or forthcoming books in the field of election law and voting rights to present their projects. Books include a discussion of how the Supreme Court has undermined the constitutional right to vote, a major treatise on the field, campaign finance, and others. Coming out in a presidential election year, these books offer a cogent starting point for discussing key issues about the law of democracy.

Moderator: Professor Timothy Canova [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Joshua Douglas [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Professor Eugene Mazo [ Seton Hall University School of Law ]; Professor Gilda R. Daniels [ University of Baltimore School of Law ]; Professor Michael Kang [ Emory University School of Law ]; Professor Ciara Torres-Spelliscy [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Jacob Eisler [ Florida State University College of Law ]

Aspiring Law Teachers Workshop
What's in a Job Talk?

Panelists offer advice on best practices for job talks. Job talks are used not only to forecast the scholar you are and will become, but also to model the type of teacher you will be. The panelists share the characteristics of an effective job talk, focusing on topic selection, authenticity, expertise, clarity, and delivery. They also examine how to harness key points from your work into digestible, yet provocative content that best showcases your ideas and what you bring to the intellectual discourse. Panelists provide tips on how to prepare and how to handle tough questions from the faculty during your talk.

Moderator: Dean Karen Sneddon [ Mercer University School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Scott Dodson [ University of California College of the Law, San Francisco ]; Professor Atiba Ellis [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]; Professor Ishaq Kundawala [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Carla Spivack [ Albany Law School ]; Professor Caprice Roberts [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Jack Harrison [ NKU Chase College of Law ]; Professor Erin Fitzgerald [ Elon University School of Law ]

Formative and Summative Assessment in Theory and Practice

This discussion group – which may be helpful to new teachers or anyone interested in assessment – examines a variety of formative and summative assessment methods. The discussion also explores the ideal linkages between the two. The feedback loop is central to effective teaching, but can be challenging in large classes. High student volume can create time and resource obstacles for professors with the best intentions. This discussion group offers concrete teaching tips and assessment methods that can be used effectively to support the feedback loop. The discussion is designed to cover a wide range of classes, including clinics and simulations, and to allow discussants to share the lessons they have learned on delivering effective student feedback.

Discussants: Professor Dustin Benham [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Kathy Conner [ Elon University School of Law ]; Professor Steven Friedland [ Elon University School of Law ]; Professor Olympia Duhart [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Brannon Denning [ Samford University Cumberland School of Law ]; Professor Rosa Newman-Ruffin [ Elon University School of Law ]; Professor Heather Baxter [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Dean Zachary Kramer [ Elon University School of Law ]; Professor Sandi Varnado [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

SEALS Global Outreach Committee
Keynote: The General Court of the European Union

Judge Papasavvas, Vice-President of the General Court of the European Union, will discuss the court's composition, jurisdiction and structure. Professor Mark Cole of the University of Luxembourg Faculty of Law will provide a special introduction for Judge Pappasavvas.

Moderator: Professor Petra Lea Láncos [ Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Faculty of Law and Political Sciences (Hungary) ]

Panelists: Professor Mark David Cole [ University of Luxembourg, Faculty of Law (Luxembourg) ]; Judge Savvas Papasavvas [ European Court of Justice ]

Break (sponsored by Carolina Academic Press)

The Side Hustle

Being a law professor comes with an incredible amount of autonomy, and although it generally pays less than private practice, most find the tradeoffs well-worth it. That said, life has a way of throwing financial hurdles our way now and again. Even without these surprises, it can be useful to have an extra stream of income. That is where the side hustle comes in. Be it in the form of an expert/consultant, royalties, or some other remuneration, the side hustle can relieve the financial stresses that arise from time to time. This group discusses the details of getting a side hustle and navigating both the formal and informal rules that exist at various institutions surrounding such remuneration.

Moderator: Professor Colin Marks [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Joshua Douglas [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Professor Jeremy Kidd [ Drake University Law School ]; Professor Hemanth Gundavaram [ Northeastern University School of Law ]; Professor Lucas Osborn [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]; Professor Brannon Denning [ Samford University Cumberland School of Law ]; Professor Marc Roark [ University of Tulsa College of Law ]; Professor Saurabh Vishnubhakat [ Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law of Yeshiva University ]; Professor Caprice Roberts [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Dean Benjamin Spencer [ William & Mary Law School ]; Professor Katerina Lewinbuk [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Stacey Tovino [ The University of Oklahoma College of Law ]; Professor Joan MacLeod Heminway [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Missy Lonegrass [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Thomas Metzloff [ Duke University School of Law ]; Professor Scott Bauries [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]

Distance Education Workshop
Use of Generative AI, Extractive AI, and Other Technology in the Training of Legal Professionals

The adoption of legal technology is reshaping the practice of law, with reports suggesting the spending in the sector has increased fivefold in the past five years. Law graduates are expected to be able to demonstrate competence in document production, ediscovery, analytics, and now prompt engineering for AI. The discussion group focuses on the use of these tools in law school pedagogy, the importance of technological competence as a lawyer’s ethical obligations, and how best to explore these tools in legal education.

Moderator: Professor Jon Garon [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Jane Cross [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor April G. Dawson [ North Carolina Central University School of Law ]; Professor Kirsten K. Davis [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Michele Pistone [ Villanova University School of Law ]; Professor Beth L. Haas [ University of Miami School of Law ]; Dean Elena B. Langan [ Touro University, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center ]; Ms. Pamela Siege Chandler [ West Academic ]; Professor Lisa Smith-Butler [ Charleston School of Law ]; Professor Andrea Funk [ The Colleges of Law ]; Professor Marcia Narine Weldon [ University of Miami School of Law ]; Mr. Douglas Lusk [ - ]; Mr. Joseph Colucci [ - ]; Mr. Casey Flaherty [ - ]; Mr. Michael Gregory [ emDigital ]; Professor Brian Sites [ University of Miami School of Law ]

Aspiring Law Teachers Workshop
Designing Your Teaching Package

This panel offers advice on determining your areas of teaching and research interests. The panel explores the importance of connection to your research, passion, and expertise. Topics include how to articulate these connections and show flexibility. Discussants also weigh how aspirants might consider market demands and advise on how to research, compare, and adjust to varied institutional needs. Finally, the group suggests ways to communicate and develop individualized teaching approaches, including styles, methods, and tools.

Moderator: Professor Emilio Longoria [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]

Panelists: Professor Benjamin Cooper [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor Match Dawson [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]; Professor Lindsey Gustafson [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]

New and Established Voices in Criminal Procedure

This discussion group is a forum for new and established scholars to discuss their forthcoming articles, works in progress, and ideas for articles on constitutional criminal procedure.

Moderators: Professor Nicholas Kahn-Fogel [ Penn State Dickinson Law ]; Professor Brian Owsley [ University of North Texas Dallas College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Russell Gold [ The University of Alabama School of Law ]; Professor Brittany Dietch [ Capital University Law School ]; Professor Eang Ngov [ The University of Oklahoma College of Law ]; Professor Mike Vitiello [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Jordan Wallace-Wolf [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Dean Mike Gentithes [ University of Akron School of Law ]; Professor Melanie Reid [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]

The Principle of Legality

The principle of legality is expressed in Latin as nullum crimen sine lege, nulla poena sine lege, followed by its English translation “no crime without law, no punishment without law.” Many criminal law courses introduce it at the beginning and never address it again. Does the principle play any substantive role in criminal jurisprudence? Does it impose any practical limitations on criminal legislation? Is the principle of legality distinct from the constitutional due process “void for vagueness” standard? Should it be? Is it something we reflexively pay lip service to, but then ignore? What is the relationship of the principle of legality and political liberalism? This discussion explores these and related questions from philosophical, practical, and pedagogical perspectives.

Moderators: Professor Mihailis Diamantis [ University of Iowa College of Law ]; Professor John Hasnas [ Georgetown University Law Center ]; Professor John Anderson [ Mississippi College School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Miriam Baer [ Brooklyn Law School ]; Professor Ken Levy [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Brenner Fissell [ Villanova University School of Law ]; Professor Stephen Galoob [ University of Tulsa College of Law ]; Professor Craig Lerner [ George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School ]; Professor Diane Lourdes Dick [ University of Iowa College of Law ]; Professor Joseph Yockey [ University of Iowa College of Law ]

New Scholars Workshop
Your Next Article

Is my next idea one that will become a good article? I’ve done some initial research, where do I go now? Should I take a different approach? These are common questions that new (and even experienced) scholars ask themselves as they progress with developing an idea into an article. The primary purpose of this panel is to provide participants in our New Scholars Workshop with input on direction and development of their scholarship. It offers New Scholars an opportunity to present a developing piece or a few ideas about potential projects in an informal setting and receive feedback on the idea. Additionally, this discussion group explores motivation, creativity, and the process for finding your next great idea.

Moderator: Professor Howard Wasserman [ Florida International University College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Christopher Brett Jaeger [ Baylor University Law School ]; Professor Haley Palfreyman Jankowski [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Rachel Koehn Breland [ South Texas College of Law ]; Professor Gwendolyn Savitz [ University of Tulsa College of Law ]; Professor Michael L. Smith [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]; Professor Donna Schwab [ Southern University Law Center ]; Professor Anthony Palermo [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Vinita Singh [ University of Iowa College of Law ]

New Scholars Workshop
Your Next Article

Is my next idea one that will become a good article? I’ve done some initial research, where do I go now? Should I take a different approach? These are common questions that new (and even experienced) scholars ask themselves as they progress with developing an idea into an article. The primary purpose of this panel is to provide participants in our New Scholars Workshop with input on direction and development of their scholarship. It offers New Scholars an opportunity to present a developing piece or a few ideas about potential projects in an informal setting and receive feedback on the idea. Additionally, this discussion group explores motivation, creativity, and the process for finding your next great idea.

Moderator: Professor Atiba Ellis [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Alex Sinha [ Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University ]; Professor Joe Dunman [ University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law ]; Professor Tiffany Atkins [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Professor Jocelyn B. Cazares Willingham [ University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law ]; Professor Ciji Dodds [ Albany Law School ]; Professor Kaleb Byars [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Sigrid Vendrell-Polanco [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]; Professor Em Wright [ Stetson University College of Law ]

New Member Reception

Cleveland State University College of Law, Drake University School of Law, University of Idaho College of Law, Penn State Dickinson Law School, and Roger Williams University School of Law are the newest members of SEALS. They are hosting this reception to introduce themselves to SEALS.

New Scholars Happy Hour (sponsored by Themis)

This event is only open to New Scholars and their mentors.

SEALS Tennis Tournament (sponsored by Aspen Publishing Co.)

SEALS will host various tennis tournaments as part of its annual meeting. Today, there will be an open singles tournament and an open senior's tournament. However, in order to play, you need to show up at the tennis courts with your own racquet a little before 8 am.

Pickleball Tournament (Sponsored by the American Bar Association)

You must bring your own equipment.

SEALS Golf Tournament (Sponsored by BARBRI | West Academic)

If you wish to play in the tournament, you need to contract Mr. Paul Hellickson (West Academic) in advance.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Interviews

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to engage in mock interviews and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Break (sponsored by Aspen Publishing Co.)

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
CV/NEAR/FAR Review (Panel # 1)

In this event, prospective law teachers can get feedback on their CVs, NEAR and FAR forms. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected. If you are a faculty member looking to assist, please contact Shakira Pleasant and Carla Reyes.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
CV/NEAR/FAR Review (Panel # 2)

In this event, prospective law teachers can get feedback on their CVs, NEAR and FAR forms. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected. If you are a faculty member looking to assist, please contact Shakira Pleasant and Carla Reyes.

New Scholars Workshop
Corporate Law, Financial Regulation, and Tax Law

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Cindy Aribisala [ Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Emily Strauss: IPO Gatekeeper Liability [ University of California College of the Law, San Francisco ] ( Mentor: Professor Colin Marks [St. Mary's University School of Law] ); Professor Jillian Schroeder-Fenlon: Ending the Divide: Incorporating Transactional Skills into Doctrinal Courses to Prepare Students for the Practice of Transactional Law and the NextGen Bar Exam [ Willamette University College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Jon Lee [University of Maine School of Law] ); Professor Jamie Grischkan: The Federal Reserve's Path to Power [ Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Jeremy Kidd [Drake University Law School] ); Professor Joseph C. Schomberg: Vestigal Fiscal Constitutions [ Drake University Law School ] ( Mentor: Professor Scott Bauries [University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law] )

New Scholars Workshop
Health Law and Reproductive Justice

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Stacey Tovino [ The University of Oklahoma College of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Courtney Turkington: The Business of Baby-Making: The Argument for Compensated Gestational Surrogacy [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Seema Mohapatra [Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law] ); Professor Ellen E. Farwell: Centering the Charitable Auxiliary: An Alternative in the Hospital Tax-Exemption Debate [ Roger Williams University School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Elizabeth Weeks [University of Georgia School of Law] )

New Scholars Workshop
Law and Technology and Employment Law

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Stephen Black [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Sherley Cruz: Decoding the Barriers in Sexual Harassment Policies [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Kerri Stone [Florida International University College of Law] ); Professor Meagan Hurley: Using Big Data to Dismantle Systemic Barriers: How Tracking Official Misconduct Can Increase Accountability and Revolutionize the Criminal Legal System [ Mercer University School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Maybell Romero [Tulane Law School] ); Professor Thomas Haley: Untethered Information [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Charlotte Tschider [Loyola University Chicago School of Law] ); Professor Alexandra Yelderman: The Exploitative Gaze: How Should We Think About Ordinary Images of Children that Are Intentionally Disseminated on Social Media to an Audience that Views Them as Pornographic? [ Jacksonville University College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Lisa Smith-Butler [Charleston School of Law] )

New Scholars Workshop
Property Law

This workshop gives New Scholars the opportunity to present a work-in-progress in a welcoming and supportive environment and to receive feedback on their presentation from more senior scholars in their fields. New Scholars are also assigned a mentor. The program is open to junior faculty at member schools. New Scholars are nominated to participate in the New Scholars Workshop by the deans of their respective law schools.

Moderator: Professor Ericka Kelsaw [ Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Dolace McLean: Property Law as Foundational to the African Slave Trade and the Institution of Slavery [ Quinnipiac University School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Marc Roark [University of Tulsa College of Law] ); Professor Martha Thibaut: The Greater Burden: Drawing the Lines on the Servient Estate [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Nikolaos Davrados [Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center] ); Professor Zviko T Chadambuka: Data Ownership for Data Subjects: Revisiting Information Monopoly Concerns [ Wayne State University Law School ] ( Mentor: Professor Darren Bush [University of Houston Law Center] ); Professor Evan Absher: Community Ownership at Scale: A Social Purpose REIT [ University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law ] ( Mentor: Professor Jade Craig [University of Mississippi School of Law] )

BARBRI | West Academic Luncheon

Admission ticket, obtainable from West Academic, is required for entry.

Getting More Creative and Collaborative to Maximize Experiential Learning Opportunities

The panelists wish to continue and develop a discussion of collaborative, creative and innovative experiential teaching and learning techniques. The participants will demonstrate this collaborative process by actively interacting with the audience to brainstorm new teaching opportunities and share various techniques, including role playing, that have succeeded in our classrooms. The panelists will explain their experiences in engaging students in doctrinal classes through creative out-of-the-box activities and use of practical skills-based exercises and examples. The panelists will carry out simulation activities during the session, which also invite audience participation.

Moderator: Professor Jean Steadman [ Charleston School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Mike Vitiello [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Nakia Davis [ North Carolina Central University School of Law ]; Professor Brittany Deitch [ Capital University Law School ]; Professor Melissa Kidder [ Ohio Northern University, Pettit College of Law ]; Professor Emilio Longoria [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Stephanie Thompson [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]

Aspiring Law Teachers Workshop
Crafting Your Scholarship Goals

This discussion group addresses the value of scholarship. Topics include how to develop best writing practices and balance commitments. Speakers explore various types of writing (from opinion-editorials and blogs to journal articles and manuscripts) and examine benchmarks for quality and quantity (including length, type of research, and placements). Speakers also offer advice on how to create a thoughtful, clear research agenda; consider how to evaluate different publication opportunities; and offer advice on how to maintain your voice as you seek to meet institutional and editorial norms.

Moderators: Professor Nick Kahn-Fogel [ Penn State Dickinson Law ]; Professor Brian Owsley [ University of North Texas Dallas College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Robert Steinbuch [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Ishaq Kundawala [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Katherine Macfarlane [ Syracuse University College of Law ]; Professor Mike Vitiello [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Scott Dodson [ University of California College of the Law, San Francisco ]; Professor Jordan Wallace-Wolf [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Almas Khan [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor Louis Virelli [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Layne Keele [ Samford University Cumberland School of Law ]; Professor Margie Alsbrook [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Sarah Williams [ Penn State Dickinson Law ]; Professor Andrea Martin [ Penn State Dickinson Law ]; Professor Seth Oranburg [ University of New Hampshire School of Law ]

New Law Teachers Workshop
Scholarship Fundamentals: Becoming a Productive and Fulfilled Scholar

This group of experienced scholars considers what is, and how to develop, a “scholarly agenda,” the alternate routes to tenure and self-fulfillment, using colleagues and research assistants to help in the scholarly enterprise, the art or luck of publishing “well,” the importance of presenting at conferences, and how to enjoy, and not dread, the scholarly process. The discussion includes the “nuts and bolts” of writing – where, when, what, and more. The group may break into smaller groups to discuss these issues with participants in depth in a more directed dialogue.

Moderator: Professor Rachel Wechsler [ University of Missouri School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Seema Mohapatra [ SMU Dedman School of Law ]; Professor Russell Gold [ The University of Alabama School of Law ]; Dean Zachary Kramer [ Elon University School of Law ]; Professor Atiba Ellis [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]

Law Schools and Clinics as Disrupters: Developing Alternatives to Courts in Dispute Resolution

The American Arbitration Association, under the new leadership of AAA President and CEO Bridget McCormack, former Michigan School of Law’s associate dean for clinical affairs, clinical professor of law, and former Michigan Supreme Chief Justice, launched in January 2024, a law school initiative of alliance with Law Schools and their Clinics to develop partnership dispute resolution programs, training programs and even AI innovation and research centers. Join us to learn about the first beta programs with peer schools and to consider how your school might consider such an alliance.

Panelists: Mr. George Serafin, Law School Advisor [ American Arbitration Association ]; Ms. Elizabeth Bain, Director of Publications & Law School Alliances [ American Arbitration Association ]; Mr. Steve Errick, Senior Vice President & Chief Development Officer [ American Arbitration Association ]

Break (sponsored by Aspen Publishing Co.)

Normative Solutions to Complex Problems

In this discussion session participants explore competing normative perspectives for approaching complex legal problems. Sometimes these normative perspectives are offered as positive theory. There are always multiple ways of dealing with the legal analysis of pressing social problems, and the normative frameworks that we use and teach shape and inform legal outcomes. The questions presented are 1) what normative perspective do I bring to my work and my teaching, 2) how do I get students to understand my normative perspective as a useful tool in legal analysis, and 3) in what ways can we persuasively assert that one normative perspective is superior to another. Discussants approach this topic from a variety of normative legal perspectives.

Moderator: Professor Robin Paul Malloy [ Syracuse University College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Jeremy Kidd [ Drake University Law School ]; Professor Darren Bush [ University of Houston Law Center ]; Professor Marc Roark [ University of Tulsa College of Law ]; Professor Ericka Kelsaw [ Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law ]; Professor Martin Edwards [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor Victoria Haneman [ Creighton University School of Law ]; Professor Eric Chaffee [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]; Professor Saurabh Vishnubhakat [ Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law of Yeshiva University ]; Mr. Harold Pryor [ Broward County State Attorney's Office ]; Professor Kevin R. Douglas [ Michigan State University College of Law ]

Keeping Up With the Pedagogy

As legal education moves away from forced online teaching during the pandemic to the systemic inclusion of online courses and programs, there is also a tendency to drop the more difficult and time-consuming tasks, which often includes student assessments. The discussants will focus on changes to the legal education norms over the past five years, how to sustain high-quality online education, how to build a culture of engagement, and how to identify the high-reward efforts from those that have little benefit for the students. The discussion will feature a collection of best practices, teaching hacks, and lessons from the trenches.

Moderator: Professor Rebecca Purdom [ University of New Hampshire School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Debra Moss Vollweiler [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Andrea Funk [ The Colleges of Law ]; Professor David Thomson [ University of Denver, Sturm College of Law ]; Ms. Pamela Siege Chandler [ West Academic ]; Dean Patricia E. Roberts [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]; Professor Lisa Smith-Butler [ Charleston School of Law ]; Professor Areto Imoukhuede [ Florida A&M University College of Law ]

SEALS Faculty Recruitment Portal: A Kinder, Gentler Faculty Recruitment Process

This panel explains all the features of SEALS new Faculty Recruitment Portal. Members of the Committee who have reimagined and reinvigorated the prior portal will explain how the portal works and the 3 platforms in the portal (including job announcements from schools, the visiting registry for existing faculty, and the NEAR form for candidates). Law schools (hiring chairs, deans, associate deans) will learn how your school can effectively use all the platforms to successfully recruit new faculty as well as laterals. Alternatively, individual professors and those seeking an academic position will learn how to use the visiting registry and NEAR form to visit, lateral, or get hired.

Moderator: Professor Linda Jellum [ University of Idaho College of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Jeremy Kidd [ Drake University Law School ]; Professor Colin Marks [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]; Professor Saurabh Vishnubhakat [ Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law of Yeshiva University ]

New Scholars Workshop
Your Next Article

Is my next idea one that will become a good article? I’ve done some initial research, where do I go now? Should I take a different approach? These are common questions that new (and even experienced) scholars ask themselves as they progress with developing an idea into an article. The primary purpose of this panel is to provide participants in our New Scholars Workshop with input on direction and development of their scholarship. It offers New Scholars an opportunity to present a developing piece or a few ideas about potential projects in an informal setting and receive feedback on the idea. Additionally, this discussion group explores motivation, creativity, and the process for finding your next great idea.

Moderator: Professor Tim Todd [ Liberty University School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Emily Strauss [ University of California College of the Law, San Francisco ]; Professor Meagan Hurley [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Thomas Haley [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Jillian Schroeder-Fenlon [ Willamette University College of Law ]; Professor Jamie Grischkan [ Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law ]; Professor Joseph C. Schomberg [ Drake University Law School ]; Professor Sherley Cruz [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Alexandra Yelderman [ Jacksonville University College of Law ]

Grading and Rubrics and Points, Oh My!

This panel addresses issues relating to grading, such as bias, purpose, and consistency, as well as construction of effective rubrics and checklists. Grading has challenges from both the grader's and the "gradee's" side. Anonymous grading arguably protects the gradee, but may withhold helpful evaluative information from the grader. Bias is minimized with anonymous grading, but any written work carries with it clues to the identity of the writer. And grading fairly across dozens of exams is additionally challenging. Rubrics and checklists can ameliorate some of those concerns and enhance clarity of grading criteria and expectations as well. This session will share examples of effective checklists and rubrics and include some small-group drafting as well!

Moderator: Professor Krista Bordatto [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Nancy Soonpaa [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Judith Rosenbaum [ Northwestern Pritzker School of Law ]; Professor Debra Moss Vollweiler [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Civil Procedure Workshop
Pedagogy and Assessments in Civil Procedure

Teaching Civil Procedure is challenging. The course includes a wide range of subjects that do not always align together. Over the last decade, significant doctrinal and rule changes regarding discovery, arbitration, limitations on personal jurisdiction, and restrictions on class actions have altered the traditional procedural landscape. These changes, coupled with the increased importance of procedure on the multistate and uniform bar exams, the transition to the NextGen Bar Exam, and the fully or partially online procedural courses at some law schools, have amplified the inherent difficulties in structuring, organizing, and preparing exams and other assessments in procedural courses. This group discusses pedagogical and assessment strategies to respond to these challenges.

Moderator: Professor Thomas Metzloff [ Duke University School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Rodger Citron [ Touro University, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center ]; Professor Richard Heppner [ Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University ]; Professor Mike Vitiello [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Daniel Croxall [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Philip Pucillo [ Michigan State University College of Law ]; Professor Susan Provenzano [ Georgia State University College of Law ]; Professor Jason Jarvis [ Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law ]; Professor Scott Dodson [ University of California College of the Law, San Francisco ]; Professor Howard M. Wasserman [ Florida International University College of Law ]; Professor Joshua Douglas [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]

New Scholars Workshop
Your Next Article

Is my next idea one that will become a good article? I’ve done some initial research, where do I go now? Should I take a different approach? These are common questions that new (and even experienced) scholars ask themselves as they progress with developing an idea into an article. The primary purpose of this panel is to provide participants in our New Scholars Workshop with input on direction and development of their scholarship. It offers New Scholars an opportunity to present a developing piece or a few ideas about potential projects in an informal setting and receive feedback on the idea. Additionally, this discussion group explores motivation, creativity, and the process for finding your next great idea.

Moderator: Professor Seema Mohapatra [ SMU Dedman School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Courtney Turkington [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]; Professor Ellen E. Farwell [ Roger Williams University School of Law ]; Professor Dolace McLean [ Quinnipiac University School of Law ]; Professor Martha Thibaut [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]; Professor Zviko T Chadambuka [ Wayne State University Law School ]; Professor Evan Absher [ University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law ]

New Law Teachers Workshop
Demonstrating How to Engage and Motivate Students

This workshop revolves around demonstrations of teaching by excellent, award-winning teachers who have thought long and hard about their craft and their role. With studies showing that engagement and motivation are important factors in learning, these teachers illustrate how their teaching promotes engaged and motivated students. This is a particularly useful session for those wondering how to minimize distractions, use collaboration, interact with students, and promote long-term learning.

Moderator: Professor Carlota Toledo [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]

Panelists: Professor Dustin Benham [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Steven Friedland [ Elon University School of Law ]; Professor Susan Kuo [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]; Professor Olympia Duhart [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Mindfulness: What it Means to Us and How We Teach It

This panel will address what the word “mindfulness” means and how practicing mindfulness can be beneficial to lawyers, professors, and students. Professors experienced in teaching law school mindfulness courses will address what mindfulness means to them and will lead a dialog with the audience to address individual questions, including why professors and students choose to practice mindfulness, what practicing mindfulness looks like, and how to go about it. The speakers will then explain how they teach mindfulness at their law schools. They will share insights, methods, syllabi, tips, anecdotes, and experiences and again encourage a robust discussion of this topic with the audience. As such, come ready to engage! The session will conclude with a short group mindfulness practice exercise.

Moderator: Professor Meredith Duncan [ University of Houston Law Center ]

Panelists: Professor Glen-Peter Ahlers [ Barry University, Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law ]; Professor Katerina Lewinbuk [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Paula Schaefer [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Filippa M. Anzalone [ Boston College Law School ]; Professor Joy Radice [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Ewa Rott-Pietrzyk [ University of Silesia (Poland) ]

BARBRI | West Academic Reception

Distance Education Workshop
Building Community and Inclusion Using Online Legal Education

This discussion group focuses on the challenges and opportunities posed by working outside of the traditional classroom and the doors it opens to meet and exceed the requirements of the revised Standard 303 by promoting a robust culture, curriculum, and community designed to enhance intercultural competencies with an emphasis on the need to address gender, race, LGBTQ status, and intersectionality in the experiences of students, staff, faculty, and clients. The composition of the discussion group focuses on inclusion from all segments of the online education community including but not limited to race, gender, age, and institutional affiliation.

Moderator: Professor Sara Berman [ University of Southern California Law School ]

Discussants: Professor Vonda Laughlin [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]; Professor DeShayla Strachan [ Mitchell Hamline School of Law ]; Professor Jane Cross [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Areto Imoukhuede [ Florida A&M University College of Law ]; Professor Allison Mittendorf [ Ohio Northern University, Pettit College of Law ]; Dean Greg Brandes [ Monterey College of Law ]; Professor Michele Pistone [ Villanova University School of Law ]; Professor Seth Oranburg [ University of New Hampshire School of Law ]; Professor Paolo Farah [ University of Pittsburgh School of Law ]; Professor Colin Marks [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]

Deans Workshop
When Free Speech, Protest, and Bias Collide: Creating an Open and Supportive Learning Environment

Law schools have long been a place for difficult conversations and new ideas, but supporting students and freedom of expression sometimes run in conflict with one another. We often want to provide a platform for opposing views, but we also need to create a constructive learning environment, and each community has different friction points. This panel will discuss possible policies, practices, and responses to an increasingly activist (and sometimes hostile) campus environment.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Talks

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to present a mock job talk and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Talks

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to present a mock job talk and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Talks

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to present a mock job talk and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Talks

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to present a mock job talk and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Talks

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to present a mock job talk and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Prospective Law Teachers Workshop
Mock Job Talks

As part of this workshop, participants have the opportunity to present a mock job talk and receive feedback. Note: Participants for this session were previously selected.

Business Law Workshop
Teaching Numeracy

Many law school courses teach doctrine, theory, policy, or skills that rely on numbers. A large number, but not all, of these courses are business-related. Law school instructors teaching these courses must have the capacity to understand and work with numbers--numeracy--and be able to teach that skill to their students. Depending on the subject matter taught in the course and the way in which numeracy plays a role, teaching methods and tools may vary. This discussion group explores how we teach numeracy to our students in our courses with the objective of giving participants and attendees new teaching ideas for their courses.

Moderator: Professor Joan MacLeod Heminway [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Eric Chaffee [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]; Professor Sergio Alberto Gramitto Ricci [ University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law ]; Professor Colleen Baker [ University of Oklahoma Price College of Business ]; Professor Anne Tucker [ Georgia State University College of Law ]; Professor Alan Kluegel [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Professor Itai Fiegenbaum [ St. Thomas University Benjamin L. Crump College of Law ]; Professor Bruce Connolly [ Ave Maria School of Law ]; Professor Martin Edwards [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor Christina Sautter [ SMU Dedman School of Law ]; Professor Geeta Tewari [ Widener University Delaware Law School ]

Assessing Learning to Achieve Student Competency

ABA Standard 315 requires law schools to evaluate the program of legal education “to determine the degree of student attainment of competency….” This discussion group focuses on how to harness technology resources and various educational modalities to identify and assess student competencies. Discussants will explore how to create a course, development formative assessment techniques, and implement programs that increase students’ skills and provide measurable results.

Moderator: Dean Elena B. Langan [ Touro University, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center ]

Discussants: Dean Greg Brandes [ Monterey College of Law ]; Professor Olympia Duhart [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Derek Fincham [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Emily Grant [ Washburn University School of Law ]; Professor Beth L. Haas [ University of Miami School of Law ]; Professor Colin Marks [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]; Professor Max Huffman [ Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law ]; Professor Vickie Sutton [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Jon Garon [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Mimosa Break (sponsored by BARBRI | West Academic)

Break (sponsored by Le Gaudere)

Aspiring Law Teachers Workshop
The Art of Self-Promotion

This panel explores packaging, marketing, and promotion strategies for your academic reputation and your scholarly ideas. Speakers discuss conventional and controversial methods of enhancing your academic brand. They also address potential pitfalls including consequences of public ideological battles. Should professors stay in their lane of expertise and maintain professional etiquette? Can professors afford to stay silent? Last, panelists offer tips on how to balance personal and professional interests in social media dissemination.

Moderator: Professor Nancy Soonpaa [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Marta Baffy [ Georgetown University Law Center ]; Professor Lucas Osborn [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]; Professor Vanessa Zboreak [ Jacksonville University College of Law ]; Professor Maybell Romero [ Tulane University Law School ]

Deans Workshop
It’s Lonely at the Top: Strategies to Support Self-Care and Wellness for Deans

The dean is responsible for helping to set the tone and tenor of a law school. Deans also often hold information that must be kept confidential, and they sometimes need to take responsibility for things beyond their control. This can make being a dean a lonely job, and it can be one the weighs heavily on hearts and minds. This panel will discuss ways to manage the challenges of the job, how to ask for help, and when it might be time to step away.

New Law Teachers Workshop
Professional Identity Formation and ABA Standard 303: Where Are We Now in the Upper-Level Curriculum

This panel discussion addresses the current status of implementing the language of ABA Standard 303 (b) (3) that requires law schools to provide substantial opportunities to students to develop professional identity and through the lens of "where we are now" in the upper-level curriculum. Panelists will discuss a range of doctrinal and experiential classes in the upper -level curriculum, learning modules and strategies that provide a learning platform for and about Professional Identity Formation. This panel is helpful and current because it continues earlier discussions about how law schools could approach ABA Standard 303(b)(3) prior to formally incorporating this requirement and strives to complement a 'sister' discussion of the same title in the 1L curriculum.

Moderator: Professor Katherene Holtzinger Conner [ Elon University School of Law ]

Discussants: Ms. Carwina Weng [ Law School Admission Council ]; Professor Brittany Deitch [ Capital University Law School ]; Dean Eden Harrington [ University of Texas School of Law ]; Professor Erika Pont [ The George Washington University Law School ]; Professor Janice Craft [ University of Richmond School of Law ]; Professor Leah Witcher Jackson Teague [ Baylor University Law School ]; Professor Timothy Floyd [ Mercer University School of Law ]

Carolina Academic Press Luncheon

AI In the Practice of Law: Riding the Wave with Professionalism and Ethics

How can we ensure that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) remains grounded in principles of professionalism, integrity, and ethics? As the waves of innovation in AI increasingly intersect with legal practices, a vital need to navigate these changes with adherence to the profession’s core values emerges. This panel will explore the transformative impact of AI in the law. Panelists from inside and outside the academy will address the practical applications of AI in transactional and litigation contexts. This panel also will examine ways to engage with the AI-driven revolution while ensuring that technological advancements augment, rather than compromise, the sacrosanct pillars of legal practice.

Moderator: Professor Jane Cross [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Panelists: Mr. Harold Pryor [ Broward County State Attorney's Office ]; Professor Kirsten K. Davis [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Colin Black [ Suffolk University Law School ]; Mr. Josh Lida [ Shendell & Pollock, PL ]

New Law Teachers Workshop
Professional Identity Formation and ABA Standard 303: Where Are We Now in the 1L Curriculum

This discussion group will address various approaches taken by schools in the 1L year to implement the language of Standard 303(b)(3), which requires that schools provide students with substantial opportunities to develop their professional identities. Our discussants come from a wide range of backgrounds and schools, and they will provide an update on "where we are now" in the efforts to help students develop their professional identities in the 1L year. We will discuss formal and informal courses on identity formation, assessment methods, ways of incorporating this exposure into doctrinal and skills courses, and how leadership development plays into this effort, among other topics. This discussion group builds on discussions about identity formation at prior SEALS conferences.

Moderator: Professor Aric Short [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Lindsey Gustafson [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Jamie Abrams [ American University, Washington College of Law ]; Professor Steve Friedland [ Elon University School of Law ]; Professor Benjamin Madison [ Regent University School of Law ]; Professor Natt Gantt [ High Point University ]; Professor Anne Mullins [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Allison Mittendorf [ Ohio Northern University, Pettit College of Law ]; Professor Daisy Floyd [ Mercer University ]; Professor Sandy Patrick [ Lewis & Clark Law School ]

Intellectual Property Workshop
Trademark Law and Consumer Culture

This panel examines how recent developments in trademark jurisprudence incorporate and affect cultural practices that invoke trademarks. It will consider recent Supreme Court opinions in Jack Daniel's Properties v. VIP Products, In re Elster, Matal v. Tam, and Iancu v. Brunetti, as well as a number of recent and ongoing lower court cases. Its focus will be on how these cases respond to lived experiences of trademarks in popular culture (that is, beyond trademarks' use as source-identifiers) and constrain or enable future cultural practices around trademarks.

Moderator: Professor Sari Mazzurco [ SMU Dedman School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Aman Gebru [ University of Houston Law Center ]; Professor Jake Linford [ Florida State University College of Law ]; Professor Laura Heymann [ William & Mary Law School ]

Campus Protests

Over the last several months, U.S. campuses have been roiled by protests related to the Israeli-Hamas conflict. Some protests are calling for their universities to divest from Israel. Others are calling for an immediate cease fire. Some of the protests have been peaceful. Others have not--such as students taking over Hamilton Hall at the Columbia University campus. The protests have raised important issues related to freedom of expression, and the right to protest, as well as regarding the limits of protest behavior. This discussion group will examine the issues presented by these protests.

Moderator: Professor Patrick Hugg [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor William Funk [ Lewis & Clark Law School ]; Professor Akram Faizer [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]; Professor Howard Wasserman [ Florida International University College of Law ]; Professor Courtney Barclay [ Jacksonville University College of Law ]; Professor William Araiza [ Brooklyn Law School ]; Professor Nicole Ligon [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]; Ms. Carmen B Johnson, Executive Officer for Institutional Inclusive Excellence [ Stetson University College of Law ]

Break (sponsored by MF Digital Marketing)

SFFA One Year Later: The Current and Future State of Law School Admissions

One year after the Supreme Court held in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard and Students for Fair Admissions v. University of North Carolina that race-based affirmative action programs in college admissions are unconstitutional, the landscape surrounding law school admissions remains unclear. This discussion group brings together scholars on Constitutional Law, Race & Law, and Education Law, as well as administrators and Deans to discuss the theoretical and practical questions that remain unanswered. Questions include: 1) How have schools adjusted their admissions policies; 2) Have schools revisited other aspects of their admissions policies (e.g., the consideration of “legacy” admissions); 3) Will the Court extend its ruling to other institutions (e.g., military academies)?

Moderator: Ms. Grace Soyon Lee [ The University of Alabama School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Akram Faizer [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]; Professor William Funk [ Lewis & Clark Law School ]; Professor Ronald Krotoszynski [ The University of Alabama School of Law ]; Dean Nicky Boothe [ University of Illinois Chicago School of Law ]; Dean Alena Allen [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Mitchell Crusto [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]; Dean Beto Juárez [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Russell Gold [ The University of Alabama School of Law ]; Dean ándre douglas pond cummings [ Widener University Commonwealth Law School ]

Election Law, Voting Rights, the 2024 Election, and Beyond

This Discussion Group will offer a forum for election law and voting rights scholars to present a new paper, a work-in-progress, a "half baked" idea, or simply their ruminations on election law, especially as it applies in a presidential election year. The discussion will cover topics such as redistricting, the constitutional right to vote, election administration, campaign finance, Trump's eligibility to be a candidate for president, and others. All are welcome to engage in what will likely be a lively discussion of these topics.

Moderator: Professor Joshua Douglas [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Tony Gaughan [ Drake University Law School ]; Professor Eugene Mazo [ Seton Hall University School of Law ]; Professor Jacob Eisler [ Florida State University College of Law ]; Professor Franita Tolson [ University of Southern California Law School ]; Professor Douglas Spencer [ University of Connecticut School of Law ]; Professor Benji Cover [ University of Idaho College of Law ]; Professor Gilda R. Daniels [ University of Baltimore School of Law ]; Professor Atiba Ellis [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]; Professor Ciara Torres-Spelliscy [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Michael Kang [ Emory University School of Law ]; Professor Michael Dimino [ Widener University Commonwealth Law School ]

Consumer Law, Commercial Law, and Bankruptcy Workshop
Emerging Scholars in Consumer Law, Commercial Law, and Bankruptcy

This discussion group provides emerging scholars in consumer law, commercial law, and bankruptcy with an opportunity to discuss early-stage scholarship in a warm and supportive setting and to receive feedback from more senior scholars in these fields. The scope of topics is intentionally broad and encompasses any consumer, commercial and/or bankruptcy law-related theme. Discussants briefly present an idea for an early-stage project (5-10 minutes) and receive feedback from other discussants.

Moderator: Professor Missy Lonegrass [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]

Discussants: Professor B. Summer Chandler [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Peter Marchetti [ Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law ]; Professor Christopher D. Hampson [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Kaitlin Caruso [ University of Maine School of Law ]; Professor Susan Tanner [ University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law ]

Deans Workshop
Still Seeking Diversity: What’s Okay in Admissions, Recruiting, and Hiring in this New Era

All law deans received a letter after the Students for Fair Admissions decision eliminated the use of race-based affirmative action programs that warned of possible lawsuits related to admission, hiring, and even publishing decisions. This panel will discuss how to seek and value a diverse community while following the law and will explore the areas where we don’t really have answers as to what’s okay.

Will Generative AI Redefine What it Means to be a Lawyer?

After years of legal education, training, and experience, we believe we have acquired the knowledge and skills to effectively serve society and the justice system. Should we be concerned that generative AI might one day be able to serve clients by doing many of our tasks? Currently, generative AI can conduct document review, legal research, and contract analysis, for example. But beyond the practical effects of AI on the profession, should we be concerned about how AI might affect how we see ourselves as professors, practitioners, and professionals? Can we take comfort in the idea that our identities are shaped by our roles as effective problem solvers, skilled advocates, and custodians of ethics, justice, and the rule of law?

Moderator: Professor Conrad Sturm [ University of Detroit Mercy School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Erica McElreath [ Charleston School of Law ]; Professor Margie Alsbrook [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Colin Black [ Suffolk University Law School ]; Professor Neil Sobol [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Sabrina Lopez [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Olympia Duhart [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Bruce Connolly [ Ave Maria School of Law ]; Professor Scott Daniels [ Ave Maria School of Law ]; Professor Kirk Miller [ Ave Maria School of Law ]; Professor Maureen Milliron [ Ave Maria School of Law ]; Professor Keith Rizzardi [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Civil Procedure Workshop
Civil Procedure Roundtable

This group provides an opportunity for procedural scholars to discuss cutting-edge scholarship on issues impacting access to justice and the adjudication process. These issues include personal and subject-matter jurisdiction limitations, contract's dominance over court access under both arbitration and forum selection clauses, the role and function of MDLs and other aggregate litigation devices, class action settlements and practices, Twiqbal's stringent pleading regime, the operation of the revised federal discovery rules, vertical and horizontal conflict of laws, and the anticipated impact of artificial intelligence in the procedural domain.

Moderator: Professor Charles (Rocky) Rhodes [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]

Discussants: Professor Richard Heppner [ Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University ]; Professor Daniel Croxall [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Scott Dodson [ University of California College of the Law, San Francisco ]; Professor Jason Jarvis [ Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law ]; Professor Thomas Metzloff [ Duke University School of Law ]; Professor Susan Provenzano [ Georgia State University College of Law ]; Professor Philip Pucillo [ Michigan State University College of Law ]; Professor Mike Vitiello [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Howard M. Wasserman [ Florida International University College of Law ]

Federalist Society Reception

Board of Trustees Meeting (Sponsored by Point Bar Review)

SEALS Global Outreach Committee
2024 ELPIS

ELPIS is one of the oldest and largest law networks in Europe. Founded by Hannover, ELPIS is composed of 34 European law faculties and faculties from America, Asia, and Africa. The network deals with issues relating to students, faculty, and staff members, as well pedagogical theory and practice. ELPIS organizes an Annual Meeting, offers a joint master's degree with the law faculties of Hannover, Rouen, Lisbon, Fribourg and Mykolos Romeris (Vilnius), and has a research arm that runs research and scientific projects and a v-Law Review. The ELPIS network has organized scientific events and a special volume of the ELPIS v-Law Review dedicated to law teaching and learning in the new decade.

Moderator: Professor Vasco Pereira da Silva [ University of Lisbon Faculty of Law (Portugal) ]

Panelists: Professor Caroula Argyriadis-Kervegan [ University of Cergy-Pointoise (France) ]; Professor Dovilé Sagatiené [ Mykolas Romeris University (Lithuania) ]; Professor Nuno Cunha Rodrigues [ University of Lisbon Faculty of Law (Portugal) ]; Professor Claas Friedrich Germelmann [ Leibniz University of Hannover Faculty of Law (Germany) ]; Dean Bernd Oppermann [ Leibniz University of Hannover Faculty of Law (Germany) ]; Professor Marine Toullier [ University of Rouen Faculty of Law (France) ]; Professor Francisco Balaguer Callejón [ University of Granada Faculty of Law (Spain) ]

Works-in-Progress Series
Administrative Law

This workshop gives faculty the opportunity to present a work-in-progress and to receive substantive feedback on their work from scholars with varying degrees of experience in the academy who write in similar or related fields. Each participant both submits their own work and reviews that of their fellow participants in advance of the meeting, leading to a more interactive exchange of ideas. Unlike other works-in-progress programs, the participants in this session are chosen from a request for submissions.

Moderator: Professor Maryam Stevenson [ Samford University Cumberland School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Nicholas Almendares [ Indiana University Maurer School of Law ]; Professor Lee Petherbridge [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Jonathan Shaub [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]

Works-in-Progress Series
Civil Procedure and Federal Courts

This workshop gives faculty the opportunity to present a work-in-progress and to receive substantive feedback on their work from scholars with varying degrees of experience in the academy who write in similar or related fields. Each participant both submits their own work and reviews that of their fellow participants in advance of the meeting, leading to a more interactive exchange of ideas. Unlike other works-in-progress programs, the participants in this session are chosen from a request for submissions.

Moderator: Professor Paul Lund [ Charleston School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Barbara Pfeffer Billauer [ University of Porto Faculty of Law (Portugal) ]; Professor Scott Dodson [ University of California College of the Law, San Francisco ]; Professor Jason Jarvis [ Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law ]; Professor Michael Vitiello [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]

Works-in-Progress Series
Legal Research and Writing: Writing Connections

This workshop gives faculty the opportunity to present a work-in-progress and to receive substantive feedback on their work from scholars with varying degrees of experience in the academy who write in similar or related fields. Each participant both submits their own work and reviews that of their fellow participants in advance of the meeting, leading to a more interactive exchange of ideas. Unlike other works-in-progress programs, the participants in this session are chosen from a request for submissions.

Moderators: Professor Emily Grant [ Washburn University School of Law ]; Professor Lindsey Gustafson [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Margie Alsbrook [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Rebekah Hanley [ University of Oregon School of Law ]; Professor Anne Mullins [ Stetson University College of Law ]

Deans Workshop
Who Wrote This? Artificial Intelligence and How it Impacts the Dean’s Role

There have been many important discussions about how artificial intelligence (AI) will impact legal education and the practice of law, but little has been explored about how AI will impact the dean’s role. This panel will discuss how AI influences character and fitness and disciplinary issues with students, how it affects faculty interactions (and their expectations), and whether and how deans can use AI to further their own goals.

Consumer Law, Commercial Law, and Bankruptcy Workshop
Current Issues in Consumer Debt

This panel explores emerging trends and new developments in consumer debt. The panelists explore a range of issues in the context of consumer debt and consumer bankruptcy, with a focus on the perspective of consumer debtors. Panelists also address the human rights and social justice implications of consumer credit, as well as the practical, financial impact of consumer debt and bankruptcy proceedings on the American consumer.

Moderator: Professor Roma Perez [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Pamela Foohey [ Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law of Yeshiva University ]; Christopher Odinet [ University of Iowa College of Law ]; Professor John Linarelli [ University of Pittsburgh School of Law ]; Professor Chrystin Ondersma [ Rutgers Law School (Newark) ]; Professor Nakita Cuttino [ Georgetown University Law Center ]

What’s ‘Write’? Who’s Writing? Exploring New AI Developments in Legal Writing Courses

Schools vary widely in expectations of and limitations on students’ use of AI in seminar courses and legal writing classes. This wide-ranging discussion group will explore divergent views and practices as of summer 2024. Most discussants will be faculty who are closely following developments in AI, who have included generative AI in their writing classes and seminars, or who anticipate embracing AI in the coming year. Some discussants, however, will explain their reluctance to include AI at this juncture. In addition to cutting-edge AI tools, the group will also discuss tools like Word Rake, Grammarly, and Brief Catch in the context of both legal writing courses and seminar classes.

Moderator: Professor Suzanne Rowe [ University of Oregon School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Susan McMahon [ University of California, Irvine, School of Law ]; Professor Kirsten K. Davis [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor W Keith Robinson [ Wake Forest University School of Law ]; Professor Michael Murray [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Professor Lisa DeSanctis [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Neil Sobol [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Anne Mullins [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Danielle McCain [ University of Illinois Chicago School of Law ]; Professor John Cook [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Latisha Nixon-Jones [ Jacksonville University College of Law ]; Professor Megan McAlpin [ University of Oregon School of Law ]; Professor Sarah Starnes [ University of Akron School of Law ]

Women in Legal Education Workshop
Women's Work: Addressing the Obligations of Female Law Faculty

“I ask no favor for my sex. All I ask of our brethren is that they take their feet off our necks.” (Ruth Bader Ginsburg) This panel explores the "pink ghetto" - the disproportionately higher burdens placed upon female law faculty. This group discusses best practices for mitigating this effect in law schools. In particular, this group will discuss how women balance higher service obligations with other aspects of the profession, including teaching and scholarship. The group explores how to manage the work/family balance as this is another area that falls disproportionately on women. The overall goal is to generate ideas for equalizing the experience for legal academics by working to eliminate the extra hurdles currently faced by women.

Moderator: Professor Sandi Varnado [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Nicole Buonocore Porter [ William & Mary Law School ]; Professor Joan MacLeod Heminway [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Caroline Osborne [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]; Professor Debra Moss Vollweiler [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Mikah Thompson [ University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law ]; Professor Jessica Garcia-Brown [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Tanya Pierce [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Ashley Krenelka Chase [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Martha Thibaut [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Business Law Workshop
Regulatory Birthday Party: The SEC at 90 and the CFTC at 50

Two federal agencies focused on financial regulation celebrate birthdays in 2024. Both have had a more-than-full book of business in recent years. Both have been at the center of eco-political controversies. This discussion session focuses on both the substantive regulation provided by each of these independent federal agencies in this context and the current constitutional challenges to the very existence of each agency and its respective congressional mandate.

Moderator: Professor Colleen Baker [ University of Oklahoma Price College of Business ]

Discussants: Professor Joan MacLeod Heminway [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Dean John Anderson [ Mississippi College School of Law ]; Commissioner Kristin Johnson [ Commodity Futures Trading Commission ]; Professor Eric Chaffee [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]; Professor Christina Sautter [ SMU Dedman School of Law ]; Professor Sergio Alberto Gramitto Ricci [ University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law ]; Professor Michael Guttentag [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Arthur Laby [ Rutgers Law School (Camden) ]; Professor David Rosenfeld [ Northern Illinois University College of Law ]; Professor Donna Nagy [ Indiana University Maurer School of Law ]; Professor Haskell Murray [ Belmont University ]; Professor George Georgiev [ Emory University School of Law ]

Labor and Employment Law Workshop
Alternative Dispute Resolution in Employment

Arbitration agreements are pervasive in employment. This panel addresses continuing controversies and new developments in the enforcement and application of such agreements to prevent employee court actions under employment law. Subtopics include new developments in the law of waiver, estoppel, election of arbitration agreements, the effect of arbitration agreements on class, collectives, or representative actions by employees, and provisions that make arbitration agreements unconscionable.

Moderator: Professor Richard Carlson [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]

Discussants: Professor Jeffrey Hirsch [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]; Professor Scott Bauries [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]; Professor Jason Bent [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Jarod Gonzalez [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Kerri Stone [ Florida International University College of Law ]; Professor Michael Green [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Ryan Nelson [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]

Break (sponsored by Carolina Academic Press)

Family Law Workshop
Regulating Parenthood and the Limits of Parental Rights

The carceral family regulation system mirrors some of the more draconian aspects of the criminal justice system even while certain families endure the majority of the collateral consequences of criminal punishment. This panel explores the criminalization of families and the effect of criminalization on families. It also explores how family law defines parenthood and the history of the parent-child relationship. The scope and substance of the rights of children have been consistent points of tension and disagreement among leading family law scholars. How and when – if ever – should the law recognize children’s interests as distinct from their parents and guardians? Furthermore, who should be empowered to articulate and vindicate those interests?

Moderator: Professor Laura Lane-Steele [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Jessica Feinberg [ University of Maine School of Law ]; Professor Laura Savarese [ New York University School of Law ]; Professor Heather Walter-McCabe [ Wayne State University Law School ]; Professor Elizabeth Katz [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]

Deans Workshop
Knowing When (and How) to Help: Rigor and Accountability in a Caring, Student-Centered Setting

This discussion group will focus on how to provide help and assistance to students while maintaining academic rigor and accountability.

The Past, Present, and Future of Private Enforcement Schemes

Texas’ fetal heartbeat law—enforced exclusively through private civil actions brought by anyone for damages and attorney’s fees—introduced questions regarding private enforcement schemes stymying judicial review of constitutionally dubious laws and reinvigorated longstanding debates over government using private enforcement to enforce public policy. As states (Red and Blue) copy the Texas blueprint on issues relating to abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, gun rights, and other culture-war issues, questions about private enforcement—so-called “vigilante federalism”—demand answers. This panel considers the history and policy of private enforcement and its effects on judicial review, the role of courts and litigants, and the means to assert and vindicate constitutional rights.

Moderator: Professor Jade Alexander Craig [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Charles (Rocky) Rhodes [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Howard M. Wasserman [ Florida International University College of Law ]; Professor Randy Beck [ University of Georgia School of Law ]

SEALS Global Outreach Committee
Effectiveness vs. Enforceability of International Law

A distinctive feature of much of public international law is that it purports to be binding but in many cases is actually unenforceable. This naturally raises the question: what does it mean for international law to be "binding"? The panel will look beyond traditionally enforceable decisions and instruments of international law such as arbitral awards and self-executing treaties to examine the theoretical and practical realities of if, when, and how binding but unenforceable international law norms become meaningful and effective.

Moderator: Professor Patrick Hugg [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Ata Hindi [ Tulane University Law School ]; Ms. Meriam Al-Rashid [ Eversheds Sutherland ]; Mr. Zaven Sargsian [ Buchalter Law Firm ]; Professor Leah Calabro [ The George Washington University Law School ]; Professor Irene Victoria Massimino [ National University of Tres de Febrero (Argentina) ]; Dr. Yuri Mantilla [ Liberty University School of Law ]; Professor Jonathon Hafetz [ Seton Hall University School of Law ]

My AI Co-Author: Did the Bot Plagiarize?

Academics base their reputations on the creative insights of their scholarship. Can we adopt AI generated content as our own? Can a bot be a co-author? This discussion group will discuss the potential left and right limits of using AI and what AI means for the legitimacy and value of legal scholarship. Should scholars be encouraged to use AI? Why or why not? If so, is there a percentage of AI generated content that is acceptable? Does it need to be cited? How can we use AI in reliable, ethical, and creative ways? Finally, how is AI generated content going to affect legal scholarship in the future?

Moderator: Professor Krista Bordatto [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Margie Alsbrook [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Lindsay Head [ Jacksonville University College of Law ]; Professor Elizabeth Berenguer [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Susan Tanner [ University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law ]; Professor Rebekah Hanley [ University of Oregon School of Law ]; Professor Ellie Margolis [ Temple University, James E. Beasley School of Law ]; Professor Tanya Pierce [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Carolyn Williams [ University of North Dakota School of Law ]; Professor Donna Eng [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]

Steering Committee Luncheon (sponsored by BARBRI | West Academic)

Each member and affiliate school is invited to send one representative to this luncheon.

Attorney Well-Being Discussion Group

Well-being is one of the foundational aspects of professional identity, which is now a required element of the JD curriculum. ABA Interpretation 303-5 indicates that students should be given frequent opportunities for such development in each year of law school. This discussion group will explore ways to integrate well-being education throughout the curriculum. Presenters will provide resources, exercises, and strategies to help faculty integrate well-being in a variety of classes.

Moderator: Professor Paula Schaefer [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor L. O. Natt Gantt [ High Point University School of Law ]; Professor Steven Friedland [ Elon University School of Law ]; Professor Renee Allen [ St. John's University School of Law ]; Professor Aric Short [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Joy Radice [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Glen-Peter Ahlers [ Barry University, Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law ]; Professor Katerina Lewinbuk [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Andrele Brutus St. Val [ University of Pittsburgh School of Law ]; Professor Meredith Duncan [ University of Houston Law Center ]

Women in Legal Education Workshop
Preparing Female Law Students to Face Sexism in the Legal Field

Yes, even in 2024, our graduating female students are entering a field where sexism still exists. This panel features law professors who have witnessed specific instances of harassment suffered by women lawyers and seen how these issues have driven women out of the legal profession entirely. The panelists will discuss how faculty can use class time, office hours, and other student interactions to prepare female students to enter the legal profession with an understanding of the inequities they face. The overall goal is to help professors acknowledge and validate the diversity that female students bring to the field and to help students know that they are valuable members of the Bar.

Moderator: Professor Erica McElreath [ Charleston School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Elana Zeide [ University of Nebraska College of Law ]; Professor Jill Engle [ Penn State Law ]; Professor Nicole Buonocore Porter [ William & Mary Law School ]

Consumer Law, Commercial Law, and Bankruptcy Workshop
Current Issues in Commercial and Consumer Law

This panel explores emerging trends and new developments in commercial and consumer law. Panelists present works-in-progress exploring a range of issues in the context of commercial and consumer transactions and litigation. Topics addressed in this panel include the FTC's new rule banning anyone from impersonating a government, business, or officer of a government or business, the potential exemption of the earned income tax credit from seizure in bankruptcy, the regulation of the sharing economy, and new state legislation on commercial leases of goods.

Moderator: Professor Missy Lonegrass [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]

Panelists: Professor Meera Sossamon [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]; Professor Creola Johnson [ The Ohio State University, Moritz College of Law ]; Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]

The Supreme Court’s Code of Conduct: Supremely Ethical, Window Dressing, or Something in Between?

After years of criticism, in November 2023, the Justices of the United States Supreme Court unanimously voted to follow a Code of Conduct. This panel discusses the impact of that decision, including how effective the Code is likely to be in influencing the Justices’ behavior, whether the Code is sufficient to cover ethical issues the Justices may face, and how the Code will potentially be enforced.

Moderator: Professor John Cook [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Thomas Metzloff [ Duke University School of Law ]; Professor Benjamin Barton [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor W. Bradley Wendel [ Cornell Law School ]; Professor Margaret Tarkington [ Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law ]; Professor John Rice [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]

Deans Workshop
Practicing What We Preach: Life-Long Learning and Professional Development for Faculty and Staff

We teach our students that good lawyers are life-long learners because it’s true. For many of us, our scholarship can help us keep connected and keep learning. Law schools are often focused on creating programming for our students (in classes) and the profession (via CLEs and symposia), that we sometimes skip ourselves. To help ensure a robust learning environment, the dean can help create professional development opportunities for faculty and staff. This panel will discuss strategies and practices that can help ensure we are all learning in ways that help us, and our institutions, evolve and adapt.

Hot Potato or Best Friend? Deciding Who in the Academy is Responsible for Generative AI

The emergence of ChatGPT and other generative AI promises (or threatens) to significantly impact our students’ professional lives, but what in the traditional curriculum actually needs to change? How quickly do we need to move, and how will we coordinate course-level adjustments to the curriculum? Are there members of the academy who may be unfairly burdened with teaching students how to use generative AI? Panelists from across the academy—including deans, administrators, and faculty members—will explore the impact of generative AI on academic integrity, research instruction, academic support and success, and bar passage.

Moderator: Professor Lindsey Gustafson [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Michael Murray [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Professor Emily Grant [ Washburn University School of Law ]; Professor Rachelle Holmes Perkins [ George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School ]; Professor Sarah Starnes [ University of Akron School of Law ]

Business Law Workshop
Developments in White-Collar Crime

This discussion group considers emerging issues in white-collar crime. Topics of discussion may include the ongoing use of deferred prosecution agreements and non-prosecution agreements in white-collar cases; developments in international white-collar crime, corporate internal investigations, mail fraud, wire fraud, and public corruption; and newsworthy cases involving insider trading, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the False Claims Act, and organizational sentencing. Discussants will leave the session with an understanding of recent developments in white-collar crime and approaches for addressing these topics in their teaching and scholarship.

Moderator: Professor Kaleb Byars [ Mercer University School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Karen Woody [ Washington and Lee University School of Law ]; Professor Morgan Cloud [ Emory University School of Law ]; Professor Lucian Dervan [ Belmont University College of Law ]; Professor Joan MacLeod Heminway [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Mihailis Diamantis [ University of Iowa College of Law ]; Professor Meagan Hurley [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Jeremy Kidd [ Drake University Law School ]; Professor David Kwok [ University of Houston Law Center ]; Professor Ellen Podgor [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Susan Klein [ University of Texas School of Law ]; Professor Adam Wright [ University of Detroit Mercy School of Law ]; Professor Katrice Copeland [ Penn State Dickinson Law ]

Intellectual Property Workshop
Intellectual Property and Religious Faith

This panel explores a wide range of topics about intellectual property (IP) law and religious faith. Topics may include: What, if anything, does religious faith have to say to IP law? How might IP law change if it were more strongly influenced from a faith-based perspective? What is a Christian, or Jewish, or Muslim view of IP? Much of IP law is strongly informed by utilitarianism – is this consistent with a faith-based perspective? Even if one can identify a faith-based approach to IP law, how much influence should it have in a pluralistic society? Many religions have a particular view of human nature - how should IP law take account of that human nature?

Moderator: Professor Lucas Osborn [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Tabrez Y. Ebrahim [ Lewis & Clark Law School ]; Professor Thomas Berg [ University of St. Thomas School of Law ]; Professor Margo A. Bagley [ Emory University School of Law ]; Professor Ruth Okediji [ Harvard Law School ]; Professor Ned Snow [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]

Break (sponsored by Carolina Academic Press)

Business Law Workshop
Public and Private in the Federal Securities Laws

The securities laws have always made a distinction between public and private: public offerings vs. private offerings; publicly traded companies vs. companies that lack a public trading market. Today more money is raised in private offerings than in public offerings. At the same time there has been a marked decline in the number of publicly listed companies. Public companies are subject to an extensive mandatory disclosure regime whereas private companies operate in a largely opaque universe. The shift to private capital has led to calls for increased regulation, including greater disclosure by private companies and limits on private offerings. This discussion group focuses on the public/private distinction in the federal securities laws and whether reform is necessary or desirable.

Moderator: Professor David Rosenfeld [ Northern Illinois University College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Joan MacLeod Heminway [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor George Georgiev [ Emory University School of Law ]; Professor Eric Chaffee [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]; Professor Donna Nagy [ Indiana University Maurer School of Law ]; Professor Jeremy Kidd [ Drake University Law School ]; Professor Michael Guttentag [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Kevin R. Douglas [ Michigan State University College of Law ]

Faith-Based Challenges Facing Law Schools with Religious Affiliations

This discussion group focuses on the challenges of maintaining a religious identity at faith-based law schools, whether Christian, Jewish, or Islamic. It addresses difficulties recruiting a student body consistent with the law school’s religious identity and mission, which may be counter-cultural. The discussion group addresses fundraising challenges and difficulties developing a curriculum and teaching in ways that are consistent with the school’s religious identity and mission. It further addresses ideas regarding accommodating student organizations that have views divergent from the mission and managing and supervising clinics and co-curricular programs to ensure they are consistent with the mission. Finally, the discussion group addresses challenges that professors from religiously-affiliated schools face when speaking at non-religiously-affiliated institutions.

Moderator: Professor Bruce Connolly [ Ave Maria School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Conrad Sturm [ University of Detroit Mercy School of Law ]; Professor Ronald Rychlak [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor Kevin Govern [ Ave Maria School of Law ]; Professor Gregory Dickinson [ St. Thomas University Benjamin L. Crump College of Law ]; Professor Jennifer Jenkins [ Ave Maria School of Law ]; Professor Joanmarie Davoli [ Barry University, Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law ]; Professor Tony Kolenc [ Ave Maria School of Law ]; Professor Jeffrey Schmitt [ University of Dayton School of Law ]; Professor Lynne Marie Kohm [ Regent University School of Law ]; Professor Rena Lindevaldsen [ Liberty University School of Law ]; Professor Mitchell Crusto [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Distance Education Workshop
Online Education Basics for Aspiring Faculty

This program is jointly offered through the Newer Law Professors Committee and the Online Education Committee to focus on the fundamentals of teaching in an online setting. Although geared towards newer faculty, this discussion is also helpful for those faculty who may have learned the basics in the trial-by-fire transition to online and blended education brought on by the emergency adoption of online education. The discussion will feature how to design a course, uses of synchronous and asynchronous instruction, learning management systems, videoconference tricks, how to use online techniques in in-person classes, and much more.

Discussants: Professor Max Huffman [ Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law ]; Professor Colin Marks [ St. Mary's University School of Law ]; Professor Allison Mittendorf [ Ohio Northern University, Pettit College of Law ]; Professor Ellen Podgor [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Gordon Russell [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]; Professor Brian Sites [ University of Miami School of Law ]; Professor Susan Stephan [ University of Cincinnati College of Law ]; Professor Marcia Narine Weldon [ University of Miami School of Law ]; Professor Steven Friedland [ Elon University School of Law ]

Family Law Workshop
Critical Perspectives on Family Law: The Public/Private Divide and Marginalized Identities

This panel offers papers on two aspects of Family Law: the public/private divide, and the ways in which family law intersects with marginalized identities. Some panelists offer perspectives and critiques of the alleged public/private divide. Others explore how a variety of marginalized identities intersect with recognitions or protections provided by Family Law.

Moderator: Professor Clare Ryan [ The University of Alabama School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Pammela Quinn [ Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law ]; Professor Jessica Tueller [ Tulane University Law School ]; Professor April Cherry [ Cleveland State University College of Law ]; Professor Deborah Widiss [ Indiana University Maurer School of Law ]; Professor Claire Donohue [ Boston College Law School ]

Women in Legal Education Workshop
Are We Dancing Backward in High Heels or Leading the Pack?

This discussion focuses on the progression of women in legal academia from staff, non-tenured, and tenured positions to the dean's suite. It deals with all the key roles that women play in all of these positions and how those roles compare with similarly situated male counterparts. The conversation addresses shattering glass ceilings, breaking down barriers, and redefining roles in legal academia.

Moderator: Professor Jane Cross [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Haley Palfreyman Jankowski [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Jessica Garcia-Brown [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Dean Karen Sneddon [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Anne Mullins [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Dean Nicky Boothe-Perry [ University of Illinois Chicago School of Law ]; Professor Erica McElreath [ Charleston School of Law ]; Professor Jill Engle [ Penn State Law ]; Professor Katerina Lewinbuk [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Debra Berman [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Courtney Turkington [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Consumer Law, Commercial Law, and Bankruptcy Workshop
Current Issues in Bankruptcy Law

This panel explores emerging trends and new developments in bankruptcy law. The panelists present works-in-progress on a range of issues arising in the context of bankruptcy proceedings. The topics addressed include the role and duties of the bankruptcy trustee, corporate structures designed for bankruptcy proceedings, the use of arbitration in bankruptcy proceedings, and the rights of creditors and debtors in bankruptcy proceedings.

Moderator: Professor Ishaq Kundawala [ Mercer University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Brook Gotberg [ Brigham Young University, J. Reuben Clark Law School ]; Professor B. Summer Chandler [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Christopher D. Hampson [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Stephen Ware [ University of Kansas School of Law ]

From Curriculum to Competence: Navigating AI’s Role and Reach in the Legal Academy

This discussion group will explore the use of AI, including generative AI, across the law school curriculum. Administrators and faculty will discuss the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into the variety of courses that comprise legal studies and examine different theoretical and practical approaches to developing AI competence among students, faculty, and staff. The group will also address leadership in AI policy and oversight and offer ideas for supporting a technology-forward academy and profession. The group builds on the “Hot Potato or Everyone’s Best Friend” panel and is an opportunity for attendees to share knowledge, experiences, and concerns around AI.

Moderator: Professor Suzanna Geiser [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Ben Fernandez [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor John Cook [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Heather Baxter [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Rebekah Hanley [ University of Oregon School of Law ]; Professor Sarah Starnes [ University of Akron School of Law ]; Professor Rachelle Holmes Perkins [ George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School ]; Professor Lindsey Gustafson [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor L. O. Natt Gantt [ High Point University School of Law ]; Professor Michael Murray [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Ms. Sercin Kutucu [ Not Listed ]

Labor and Employment Law Workshop
Diversity: Dead or Alive?

In Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard College, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed decades of law permitting affirmative action or the adoption of diversity as a goal in the selection of students or employees. Does the Court's decision leave any room for consideration of minority status or diversity in employment, student selection, or other selection processes? This panel addresses the future of affirmative action and diversity within the new limits established by the Court.

Moderator: Professor Richard Carlson [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]

Discussants: Professor Jeffrey Hirsch [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]; Professor Scott Bauries [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]; Professor Jason Bent [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Jarod Gonzalez [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Kerri Stone [ Florida International University College of Law ]; Professor Jessica Roberts [ University of Houston Law Center ]; Professor Michael Green [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Ryan Nelson [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]

Deans Workshop
ABA Standards: What’s Pending, What’s Coming, and What the Heck Are They Doing?

The ABA has recently issued a number of proposals that would dramatically change the landscape for law schools and how they operate. From impacting hiring and personnel to methods of instruction and admissions requirements, the ABA has proposed changes without significant explanation or data to support the proposals. This panel will discuss current ABA proposals and how deans might approach them and how they may come to be.

Aspen Publishing Co. Reception

Works-in-Progress Series
Constitutional Law

This workshop gives faculty the opportunity to present a work-in-progress and to receive substantive feedback on their work from scholars with varying degrees of experience in the academy who write in similar or related fields. Each participant both submits their own work and reviews that of their fellow participants in advance of the meeting, leading to a more interactive exchange of ideas. Unlike other works-in-progress programs, the participants in this session are chosen from a request for submissions.

Moderator: Professor Paul Stafford [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Bonnie Ellen Carlson [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Benji Cover [ University of Idaho College of Law ]; Professor Eugene Mazo [ Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University ]; Professor David Orentlicher [ UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law ]; Professor Alexi Pfeffer-Gillett [ Washington and Lee University School of Law ]; Professor Lawrence Rosenthal [ Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law ]; Professor Howard Wasserman [ Florida International University College of Law ]

Works-in-Progress Series
Criminal and International Law

This workshop gives faculty the opportunity to present a work-in-progress and to receive substantive feedback on their work from scholars with varying degrees of experience in the academy who write in similar or related fields. Each participant both submits their own work and reviews that of their fellow participants in advance of the meeting, leading to a more interactive exchange of ideas. Unlike other works-in-progress programs, the participants in this session are chosen from a request for submissions.

Moderator: Professor Margaret Lawton [ Charleston School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Ericka Kelsaw [ Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law ]; Professor Jordan Gross [ University of Idaho College of Law ]; Professor Joseph Isanga [ University of Idaho College of Law ]; Professor Zachary Kaufman [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Erin Kenny [ Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law ]; Professor Nirej Sekhon [ Georgia State University College of Law ]; Professor Ata Hindi [ Tulane University Law School ]

Works-in-Progress Series
Legal Research and Writing: Unending Conversations

This workshop gives faculty the opportunity to present a work-in-progress and to receive substantive feedback on their work from scholars with varying degrees of experience in the academy who write in similar or related fields. Each participant both submits their own work and reviews that of their fellow participants in advance of the meeting, leading to a more interactive exchange of ideas. Unlike other works-in-progress programs, the participants in this session are chosen from a request for submissions.

Moderator: Professor Anne Mullins [ Stetson University College of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Ezra Ross [ University of California, Irvine, School of Law ]; Professor Stephanie Thompson [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Rebekah Hanley [ University of Oregon School of Law ]

Works-in-Progress Series
Private Law

This workshop gives faculty the opportunity to present a work-in-progress and to receive substantive feedback on their work from scholars with varying degrees of experience in the academy who write in similar or related fields. Each participant both submits their own work and reviews that of their fellow participants in advance of the meeting, leading to a more interactive exchange of ideas. Unlike other works-in-progress programs, the participants in this session are chosen from a request for submissions.

Moderator: Professor Nadelle Grossman [ Marquette University Law School ]

Panelists: Professor Paolo Farah [ University of Pittsburgh School of Law ]; Professor Evan Absher [ University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law ]; Professor Will Bunting [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Jorge Contreras [ The University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law ]; Professor Richard Cupp [ Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law ]; Professor Aman K. Gebru [ University of Houston Law Center ]; Professor Lorelei Ritchie [ University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law ]

Works-in-Progress Series
Race and Federalism in American Law and Politics

This workshop gives faculty the opportunity to present a work-in-progress and to receive substantive feedback on their work from scholars with varying degrees of experience in the academy who write in similar or related fields. Each participant both submits their own work and reviews that of their fellow participants in advance of the meeting, leading to a more interactive exchange of ideas. Unlike other works-in-progress programs, the participants in this session are chosen from a request for submissions.

Panelists: Professor Cedric M Powell [ University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law ]; Professor Charlton Copeland [ University of Miami School of Law ]; Professor Charquia Wright [ Florida State University College of Law ]; Professor Atiba Ellis [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]

Family Law Workshop
Constitutional Family Law Discussion Group

Supreme Court opinions have the potential to affect many of the rights surrounding family formation – not only abortion, but access to assisted reproductive technologies, the rights of non-marital or LGBT families, as well as more amorphous concerns of due process in the family regulation system and family privacy issues. This panel will draw together scholars to discuss how constitutional jurisprudence affects reproductive justice, LGBTQIA rights, and family law broadly.

Moderator: Professor Danielle Wingfield [ University of Richmond School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Keesha Turner Roberts [ Widener University Delaware Law School ]; Professor Susan Hazeldean [ Brooklyn Law School ]; Professor Laura Lane-Steele [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]; Professor Laura Savarese [ New York University School of Law ]; Professor Claire Donohue [ Boston College Law School ]; Professor Sasha Coupet [ Loyola University Chicago School of Law ]; Professor Jill Engle [ Penn State Law ]; Professor Brad Colbert [ Mitchell Hamline School of Law ]; Professor Lynne Marie Kohm [ Regent University School of Law ]; Professor Jessica Tueller [ Tulane University Law School ]; Professor April Cherry [ Cleveland State University College of Law ]

SEALS Global Outreach Committee
The Global Rise of Authoritarianism: the Netherlands, Italy, Argentina, and the United States

Recent political successes by Geert Wilders (the Netherlands), Giorgia Meloni (Italy), Robert Fico (Slovakia), and Javier Milei (Argentina) continue the trend toward authoritarian political leadership, previously exemplified by Viktor Orban (Hungary) and Donald Trump (USA). Scholars from several countries discuss current issues presented as numerous authoritarian political movements succeed in popular elections, and as national and supranational courts face criticisms of politicization and challenges to their authority. Topics are expected to include: challenges to the primacy of national constitutions, challenges to the effectiveness of supranational law and other intergovernmental norms; the rule of law commitments and politicization of courts around the globe.

Moderator: Professor Patrick Hugg [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Discussants: Dr. Mariette Jones [ Middlesex University London School of Law (UK) ]; Professor Dimitrios Parashu [ Leibniz University of Hannover Faculty of Law (Germany) ]; Professor Nuno Cunha Rodrigues [ University of Lisbon Faculty of Law (Portugal) ]; Professor Rafal Bilcharz [ University of Silesia Faculty of Law (Poland) ]; Professor Elvin Evrim Dalkthc [ Bilkent University Faculty of Law (Turkey) ]; Professor Anne Klebes-Pelissier [ University of Strasbourg (France) ]; Professor Henrique Weil Afonso [ Faculdade Damas de Instrução Cristã, Recife (Brazil) ]; Professor Gregory Noone [ Roger Williams University School of Law ]; Dean Gregory Bowman [ Roger Williams University School of Law ]; Professor Arndt Künnecke [ Federal University of Applied Sciences for Public Administration (Germany) ]; Professor Irene Victoria Massimino [ National University of Tres de Febrero (Argentina) ]; Professor Paolo Farah [ University of Pittsburgh School of Law ]

Trusts and Estates
Current and Evolving Trusts and Estates Scholarship

Scholarship in the Trusts & Estates field is dynamic and expanding. Until recently, trusts and estates law primarily concerned mechanisms for the effective transfer of wealth and it was the province of dry formalities. There was widespread consensus over a series of core principles and concepts basic to the field. New scholarship, however, seeks to challenge this traditional approach and to bring alternative perspectives to the core meanings and concepts of trusts and estates. The scholarship today uses a variety of methodologies and lenses. In this discussion group, participants have an opportunity to present their current research and explore symmetries and differences between their various scholarly projects.

Discussants: Professor Emily Grant [ Washburn University School of Law ]; Professor Victoria Haneman [ Creighton University School of Law ]; Professor Carla Spivack [ Oklahoma City University School of Law ]; Dean Karen Sneddon [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Patrick Tolan [ Western Michigan University Cooley Law School ]; Professor Patricia Cain [ Santa Clara University School of Law ]; Professor Reid Weisbord [ Rutgers Law School (Newark) ]; Professor Phyllis Taite [ The University of Oklahoma College of Law ]; Professor Michael Higdon [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Tim Todd [ Liberty University School of Law ]; Professor Gail Richmond [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Eric Chaffee [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]; Professor Lee Petherbridge [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Donald E. Campbell [ Mississippi College School of Law ]

Consumer Law, Commercial Law, and Bankruptcy Workshop
Pedagogy and Assessments in Consumer Law, Commercial Law, and Bankruptcy Courses

This discussion group aims to bring together professors who teach in the fields of consumer law, commercial law, and/or bankruptcy to share best practices for teaching and assessing our students. Topics include: final exams, midterms, and other assessments; written projects; simulations; drafting exercises; and other modes of teaching and assessing students. Professors of all levels of experience are encouraged to share their experiences and expertise. The scope of this discussion group is intentionally broad and participants may touch upon any matter related to teaching and assessing consumer law, commercial law, and bankruptcy.

Moderator: Professor Stephen Ware [ University of Kansas School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Ishaq Kundawala [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Jake Linford [ Florida State University College of Law ]; Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor John Linarelli [ University of Pittsburgh School of Law ]; Professor Kaitlin Caruso [ University of Maine School of Law ]; Professor Peter Marchetti [ Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law ]; Professor B. Summer Chandler [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]

Labor and Employment Law Workshop
Pedagogical Trends in Teaching Workplace Law

This discussion group focuses on best practices for teaching Employment Discrimination, Employment Law, and Labor Law. Because these areas of law so often resonate with or are altered by current events that unfold during a semester, it is vital to keep students abreast of developments and to be able to seamlessly integrate those developments into a pre-set syllabus. Generally, this discussion group deals with 1) best practices employed by professors in this overall area to keep classes fresh, current, and flowing; 2) examples of when and how current events have been successfully integrated into a class discussion or syllabus; and 3) new and innovative ideas on the selection of assigned course material, teaching, and discussion-leading for classes.

Moderator: Professor Kerri Stone [ Florida International University College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Nicole Porter [ William & Mary Law School ]; Professor Jarod Gonzalez [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Jason Bent [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Michael Green [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Richard Carlson [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Miriam Cherry [ St. John's University School of Law ]; Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Jeffrey Hirsch [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]

Break (sponsored by All Campus)

Women in Legal Education Workshop
Gender Equity in the Law School Setting

This panel addresses gender equity issues in the law school setting. Panelists explore the questions of how to investigate and achieve salary equity in law schools, how to address gender discrimination on campus without litigation, and other ways to dismantle barriers to gender equity in law schools. Panelists also discuss navigating gender equity issues in leadership, advancement, and service in the academy.

Moderator: Professor Victoria J. Haneman [ Creighton University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Constance Wagner [ Saint Louis University School of Law ]; Professor Anne Mullins [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Susan Rozelle [ Stetson University College of Law ]

Intellectual Property Workshop
Trade Secrets and Information Policy

This panel addresses various legal and policy issues related to trade secrets and information policy. In an era where data is increasingly valuable, rights in information, as well as their limits, are of great importance. Topics discussed may include AI and trade secrecy, confidential information and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), trade secrets and whistleblowers, and remedies for trade misappropriation.

Moderator: Professor Christopher B Seaman [ Washington and Lee University School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Camilla A. Hrdy [ Rutgers Law School (Camden) ]; Professor Tim Murphy [ University of Idaho College of Law ]; Professor Charlotte Tscheider [ Loyola University Chicago School of Law ]; Professor Deepa Varadarajan [ Georgia State University College of Law ]

Using Generative AI for Law School Assessments

Generative AI's unique abilities to "learn" from training and to respond conversationally open the door to a new world of assessing student work. This panel of experienced law professors suggests a framework for employing generative AI in law school assessments to create assessments more efficiently, develop new types of assessment that reflect real-world practice scenarios, and improve grading accuracy and efficiency. We will discuss the prospects, challenges, and ethical dimensions, sketching a roadmap for modern, AI-empowered law school assessment.

Moderator: Professor Becka Rich [ Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Sabrina Lopez [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Ellen Podgor [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Sarah Thompson Parks [ Indiana University Maurer School of Law ]; Professor Korin Munsterman [ University of North Texas Dallas College of Law ]

Intellectual Property Workshop
Intellectual Property and Social Justice

This panel addresses the intersection between intellectual property laws and the furthering of social, racial, and economic justice. The Intellectual Property Clause of the U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to regulate the "Progress of Science and the useful Arts," and scholars have recently debated whether the meaning of "Progress" should include matters beyond purely private sector economic interests and extend toward more basic values, such as equality, privacy, and distributive justice. This panel asks how intellectual property--including patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and publicity rights--can advance the well-being of our communities, cultures, and the world at large.

Moderator: Professor Dustin Marlan [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Timothy Hsieh [ Oklahoma City University School of Law ]; Professor Francisco Tschen [ Florida International University College of Law ]; Mr. Francisco Tschen [ Tschen Law ]; Professor Anoo Vyas [ University of Massachusetts School of Law ]; Professor Tim McFarlin [ Samford University Cumberland School of Law ]

SEALS Global Outreach Committee
Recent General Court of the European Union Decisions

Judge Papasavvas, Vice-President of the Genera Court of the European Union, discusses recent decisions by the court.

Moderator: Professor Mark David Cole [ University of Luxembourg, Faculty of Law (Luxembourg) ]

Panelists: Judge Savvas Papasavvas [ European Court of Justice ]

Teaching Professional Responsibility in Divisive (and Strange) Times

The SEALS Professional Responsibility discussion group is an annual affair at which we gather to discuss teaching and/or scholarship in a relaxed and supportive setting. This year, we are covering teaching, with a special emphasis on the challenges of teaching Professional Responsibility in divided and uncertain times. We are sure to discuss the many layers of the January 6th/Trump lawyers fiasco and how to teach it, as well as AI and ethics. The discussion also may include presentation of one or more papers or teaching dilemmas related to the topic. Participants are welcome to listen and comment. All are welcome to this free-flowing conversation and exchange of ideas.

Moderator: Professor Benjamin Barton [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Thomas Metzloff [ Duke University School of Law ]; Professor Kate Kruse [ Mitchell Hamline School of Law ]; Professor Alex Long [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Benjamin Cooper [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor John Cook [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Jon Lee [ University of Maine School of Law ]; Professor Margaret Tarkington [ Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law ]; Professor W. Bradley Wendel [ Cornell Law School ]

Break (sponsored by emDigital)

Resilient Communities and Resilient Property Theory

Livable communities should be sustainable, accessible, and resilient. While this sounds straightforward, the making of resilient communities can be complex. Moreover, what is the relationship, if any, between building resilient communities and Resilient Property Theory? Is Resilient Property Theory simply an application of a method of understanding property, or is it a theory that illuminates a better way to deal with the complexity of the built environment? Participants on this panel discuss different approaches to making our communities livable, sustainable, and accessible. The discussion considers a variety of approaches including planning and zoning, environmental law, climate change, sustainability, and resiliency. Professor Roark then suggests ways that Resilient Property Theory might enhance and supplement the approaches discussed.

Moderator: Professor Dylan Malagrino [ Charleston School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Robin Paul Malloy [ Syracuse University College of Law ]; Professor Marc Roark [ University of Tulsa College of Law ]; Professor Jim Smith [ University of Georgia School of Law ]; Professor Kara Consalo [ Florida A&M University College of Law ]; Professor Carol Brown [ University of Richmond School of Law ]

Trusts and Estates Workshop
Suggestions for Effective Teaching and Learning in the Trusts and Estates Classroom

Discussants share examples of teaching ideas and exercises in their Trusts & Estates classes that accomplish a particular teaching goal, explain a difficult concept, or otherwise engaged students to better learn the material. Discussants may bring handouts or other sample material to share with the group. The workshop allows time for question-and-answer brainstorming to better develop teaching ideas mentioned.

Discussants: Professor Emily Grant [ Washburn University School of Law ]; Professor Victoria Haneman [ Creighton University School of Law ]; Professor Carla Spivack [ Oklahoma City University School of Law ]; Dean Karen Sneddon [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Michael Higdon [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Patrick Tolan [ Western Michigan University Cooley Law School ]; Professor Patricia Cain [ Santa Clara University School of Law ]; Professor Reid Weisbord [ Rutgers Law School (Newark) ]; Professor Phyllis Taite [ The University of Oklahoma College of Law ]; Professor Tim Todd [ Liberty University School of Law ]; Professor Gail Richmond [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Eric Chaffee [ Case Western Reserve University School of Law ]; Professor Lee Petherbridge [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Donald E. Campbell [ Mississippi College School of Law ]

Current Events in Health Law

This panel addresses current and emerging trends in health law and bioethics. Discussants cover a wide range of topics touching on genetics in the context of AI, patient confidentiality in the context of abortion, health care powers of attorney and supported decision-making, impact of AI on health disparities, informed consent & shared decision making, end-of-life liberty, propriety of drug alternatives as therapeutics, impact of benefits exclusions for workers, medication abortion reversal laws, barriers to home and community based settings, bioengineered food and food safety, medical privacy, using Critical Race Theory to examine scientific evidence theory of certain diagnoses, merits of cooperative federal-state payment alignment efforts, and much more.

Moderator: Professor Deborah Farringer [ Belmont University College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Marilyn Uzdavines [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Ellen Black [ Belmont University College of Law ]; Professor Chris Ogolla [ Barry University, Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law ]; Professor Elizabeth Weeks Leonard [ University of Georgia School of Law ]; Professor Jessica Mantel [ University of Houston Law Center ]; Professor Barbara Pfeffer Billauer [ University of Porto Faculty of Law (Portugal) ]; Professor Ani Satz [ Emory University School of Law ]; Professor Debra Strauss [ Fairfield University Charles F. Dolan School of Business ]; Professor Ximena Benavides [ Yale Law School ]; Professor Valarie Blake [ The University of Tennessee College of Law ]; Professor Jennifer Oliva [ Indiana University Maurer School of Law ]; Professor Thaddeus Pope [ Mitchell Hamline School of Law ]; Professor Susan Ayres [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Dana Jones [ North Carolina Central University School of Law ]; Professor Grace Orsatti [ Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University ]; Professor Stacey Tovino [ The University of Oklahoma College of Law ]; Professor Jessica Roberts [ University of Houston Law Center ]

Family Law Workshop
New and Emerging Scholarship in Family Law

This group allows both doctrinal and clinical professors to discuss early-stage scholarship. The scope of topics is broad, encompassing any family law-related theme, from marriage to nonmarriage to parenting queer children to child abuse and neglect. This session provides an opportunity for participants to present their ideas for five minutes and receive five minutes of feedback from other members of the discussion group.

Moderator: Professor Laura Lane-Steele [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Keesha Turner Roberts [ Widener University Delaware Law School ]; Professor Jessica Feinberg [ University of Maine School of Law ]; Professor Tiffany Atkins [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Professor Melanie Daily [ University of Kansas School of Law ]; Professor Laura Savarese [ New York University School of Law ]; Professor Lynne Marie Kohm [ Regent University School of Law ]; Professor Claire Donohue [ Boston College Law School ]; Professor Sasha Coupet [ Loyola University Chicago School of Law ]; Professor Heather Kolinsky [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Pammela Quinn [ Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law ]; Professor Jessica Tueller [ Tulane University Law School ]

Women in Legal Education Workshop
Intersectionality Among Women Law Professors

While all women law professors face special challenges and burdens in their roles in law schools, this discussion group addresses the intersectionality of gender and other social locations, including race, ethnicity, age, sexuality, class, experience level, and others. The discussants share their experiences with intersectionality in the law school setting, along with strategies they have employed to raise awareness of and overcome the barriers associated with the intersection between gender and other identity factors.

Moderator: Professor June Tai [ University of Iowa College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Tiffany Atkins [ University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law ]; Professor Patricia Wilson [ Baylor University Law School ]; Professor Maritza Reyes [ Florida A&M University College of Law ]; Dean Alena Allen [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]; Professor Lolita Buckner Innis [ University of Colorado Law School ]; Professor Cheryl T. Page [ Southern Illinois University School of Law ]; Professor Jill Engle [ Penn State Law ]; Professor Victoria Haneman [ Creighton University School of Law ]; Professor Meera Sossamon [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Current Trends in Employer Surveillance Technologies and Their Impact on Employee Privacy

The recent AI explosion has made it easier than ever before to collect, analyze, and store data. Not surprisingly, then, employers are eager to use these tools to monitor their employees. Technologies exist to track when employees are working, what they are working on, with whom they are communicating, and what they are saying. Employees report that these tools make them feel inappropriately watched and may even have a negative impact on their mental health. The discussion group explores the latest technological trends in employer surveillance and considers their impact on employee privacy.

Moderator: Professor Jessica Roberts [ University of Houston Law Center ]

Discussants: Professor Jason Bent [ Stetson University College of Law ]; Professor Jeffrey Hirsch [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]; Professor Jarod Gonzalez [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Kerri Stone [ Florida International University College of Law ]; Professor Ani Satz [ Emory University School of Law ]; Professor Michael Green [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Llezlie Green [ Georgetown University Law Center ]; Professor Richard Carlson [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]

Issues Affecting Lawyers in Rural Communities

Many rural areas in the United States face a dire shortage of attorneys, and attorneys practicing in rural areas face unique challenges. This discussion group examines these issues, including the rural lawyer shortage’s extent, causes, and possible solutions. Particular subjects of discussion include potential incentives for attorneys to enter into rural practice, ethical issues unique to rural lawyering, ways in which law schools can help resolve the rural lawyer shortage, and ways in which rural lawyering issues can be incorporated into the law school curriculum.

Moderator: Professor John Cook [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Robert Steinbuch [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Margie Alsbrook [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Kaleb Byars [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Professor Rodney Chrisman [ Liberty University School of Law ]; Professor Benjamin Cooper [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor Lindsey Gustafson [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Martin Edwards [ The University of Mississippi School of Law ]; Professor Shawn Leisinger [ Washburn University School of Law ]; Professor John Rice [ Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law ]; Professor Hannah Catt [ Purdue Global Law School ]; Professor Melissa L. Kidder [ Ohio Northern University, Pettit College of Law ]; Professor J. Douglas Cortés [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]

Closing Reception (sponsored by Carolina Academic Press)

Family Law Workshop
Family Law Pedagogy Discussion Group

This group facilitates discussion among both doctrinal and clinical professors about the tools and strategies they use in their family law (and related) classrooms. Special focus is afforded to building students’ practical lawyering skills, drawing connections from family law to the broader law school curriculum, new approaches to teaching traditional family law topics, methods for incorporating non-traditional topics in family law courses, strategies for incorporating scholarly literature and other critical perspectives on family law, and approaches that bring into the classroom discussion issues that face families from diverse backgrounds.

Moderator: Professor Clare Ryan [ The University of Alabama School of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Keesha Turner Roberts [ Widener University Delaware Law School ]; Professor Jill Engle [ Penn State Law ]; Professor Melanie Daily [ University of Kansas School of Law ]; Professor April Cherry [ Cleveland State University College of Law ]; Professor Laura Lane-Steele [ University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law ]; Professor Kelly Browe Olson [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Laura Savarese [ New York University School of Law ]; Professor Lynne Marie Kohm [ Regent University School of Law ]; Professor Heather Kolinsky [ University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law ]; Professor Kate Norton [ Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University ]; Professor Laurie Kohn [ The George Washington University Law School ]; Professor Julie McConnell [ University of Richmond School of Law ]; Professor Brad Colbert [ Mitchell Hamline School of Law ]; Professor Jessica Tueller [ Tulane University Law School ]

SEALS Global Outreach Committee
How Can the Conflict Between Hamas and Israel be Constructively Examined in the Classroom?

Issues of International Law and International Humanitarian Law are fundamental to any informed discussion or analysis of this consequential, historical outbreak of hostilities. Yet, due to the intense emotion on multiple sides of this conflict, many academics and administrators fear that discussion of fundamental issues is more likely to provoke hostile or other negative reactions, than to instruct or illuminate legal issues and solutions. This discussion group addresses these concerns and others, including considerations of academic freedom and freedom of speech, and offers possible approaches to teaching and relevant legal analysis.

Moderator: Professor Patrick Hugg [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Discussants: Professor Ata Hindi [ Tulane University Law School ]; Professor Ewa Rott-Pietrzyk [ University of Silesia (Poland) ]; Professor Claas Friedrich Germelmann [ Leibniz University of Hannover Faculty of Law (Germany) ]; Professor Vasco Pereira da Silva [ University of Lisbon Faculty of Law (Portugal) ]; Professor Elvin Evrim Dalkthc [ Bilkent University Faculty of Law (Turkey) ]; Dean Gregory Bowman [ Roger Williams University School of Law ]

Women in Legal Education Workshop
Women in Law School Leadership Roles

Women law professors who assume leadership roles within their law schools face barriers both on the path to leadership and in the performance of those roles, including gender bias in promotion, increased service burdens on female faculty, and more. This discussion group features women law school leaders who discuss their experiences overcoming the challenges women face in academia and in seeking leadership opportunities in law schools. Discussants provide practical guidance to those interested in attaining a leadership role in their law school about how to allocate time, when to seek opportunities, and how to gain experience.

Moderator: Dean Alena Allen [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]

Discussants: Dean Karen Sneddon [ Mercer University School of Law ]; Dean Nicky Boothe [ University of Illinois Chicago School of Law ]; Professor Milena Sterio [ Cleveland State University College of Law ]; Professor Lolita Buckner Innis [ University of Colorado Law School ]; Professor Jane Cross [ Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law ]; Professor Amy J. Wildermuth [ The Ohio State University, Moritz College of Law ]; Professor Emily Grant [ Washburn University School of Law ]; Professor Lindsey Gustafson [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Dean Elizabeth Kronk Warner [ The University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law ]; Professor Shruti Rana [ University of Missouri School of Law ]

Labor and Employment Law Workshop
All About Accommodations

The COVID-19 pandemic brought renewed attention to the fact that our diverse workforce often needs modifications of how, when, and where work is performed. This discussion group explores the current state and future development of workplace accommodations. Discussants focus on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), religious accommodations after the 2023 Groff v. DeJoy decision, and the lack of access to accommodations for some workers. The discussion group also explores the similarities and differences between various accommodation laws, the theoretical justifications for accommodations, the effect of accommodations on coworkers, how COVID-19 has affected accommodations in the workplace, and how workplace accommodations affect workplace equality and the well-being of all workers.

Moderator: Professor Nicole Porter [ William & Mary Law School ]

Discussants: Professor Deborah Widiss [ Indiana University Maurer School of Law ]; Professor Jeffrey Hirsch [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]; Professor Ani Satz [ Emory University School of Law ]; Professor Jarod Gonzalez [ Texas Tech University School of Law ]; Professor Kerri Stone [ Florida International University College of Law ]; Professor Michael Green [ Texas A&M University School of Law ]; Professor Jessica Roberts [ University of Houston Law Center ]; Professor Ryan H. Nelson [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]; Professor Robert Brain [ Loyola Law School, Los Angeles ]; Professor Richard Carlson [ South Texas College of Law Houston ]

Cannabis Law and Scholarship, 2nd Edition

The cannabis industry is no longer in its infancy. A majority of states regulate legal cannabis markets, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is poised to reschedule cannabis and usher in a new era of federal cannabis policy in 2024. As the industry matures, so too does cannabis law, scholarship, and education. Several prominent books in the field of cannabis law will publish their second edition in 2024, and an increasing number of U.S. law schools offer cannabis courses that prepare law students for the practice of cannabis law. In this session, participants reflect on the maturation of cannabis legal studies in both scholarly and curricular forms.

Moderator: Professor Ryan Stoa [ Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center ]

Discussants: Professor Jason Buhi [ Barry University, Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law ]; Professor Benjamin Varadi [ Vermont Law School ]; Professor Glenys Spence [ Barry University, Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law ]; Professor Marla Dickerson [ Southern University Law Center ]; Professor Mike Vitiello [ University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law ]; Professor Alex Kreit [ Northern Kentucky University, Salmon P. Chase College of Law ]; Professor Adam Crepelle [ Loyola University Chicago School of Law ]; Professor Catherine Hancock [ Tulane University Law School ]; Professor John Cook [ University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law ]; Professor Mitchell Crusto [ Loyola University New Orleans College of Law ]

Enhancing Legal Education by Leveraging Rubrics for Comprehensive Outcome-Based Assessment

This panel addresses how ABA-accredited law schools can effectively integrate the use of actionable rubrics to facilitate compliance with ABA Standards 301, 303, 314, and 315. Panelists discuss and demonstrate how rubrics facilitate direct, insightful feedback on both instruction quality and student learning outcomes. Panelists explore how ABA-accredited institutions can adeptly conduct outcome-based assessments leveraging both internal methodologies and external resources. Panelists also explore how rubric drafting can accommodate and prioritize advancements in legal technology within course offerings, ensuring a rigorous program of education that equips students for effective, ethical, and responsible participation in the legal profession.

Moderator: Professor Katie Brown [ Charleston School of Law ]

Panelists: Professor Caroline Osborne [ University of North Carolina School of Law ]; Professor Kristina L Niedringhaus [ Georgia State University College of Law ]; Professor Jessica de Perio Wittman [ University of Connecticut School of Law ]