Beus Center for Law and Society - North West corner at dusk

Dean's Message

Dean Angela Banks

Welcome to the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, a law school grounded in excellence, driven by innovation and inspired by the legacy of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. As the first woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court, Justice O’Connor transformed the legal profession through her intellect, integrity and unwavering commitment to public service. At ASU Law, we honor her legacy by preparing lawyers and leaders who are committed to advancing justice, strengthening communities and creating meaningful change.

As Interim Dean, I am honored to lead ASU Law during a period of extraordinary momentum and opportunity. Building on a strong foundation of academic excellence and innovation, we continue to expand what is possible in legal education by creating pathways that increase access, embrace new ideas and prepare students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Our commitment to inclusion, collaboration and impact shapes everything we do and fuels our vision for the future.

ASU Law is redefining legal education through a broad portfolio of programs designed to meet the evolving needs of students and society. We offer seven degree programs — including the Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), Master of Legal Studies (MLS), Master of Legal Studies in Health Care Compliance and Administration (MLS Health), Master of Human Resources and Employment Law (MHREL) and Master of Sports Law and Business (MSLB) — each grounded in academic rigor, practical experience and flexibility.

ASU Law has emerged as a national leader in legal master’s education, expanding access to legal knowledge for professionals across industries and around the world. We are also proud to be home to the nation’s No. 1 program in legal writing, reflecting our longstanding commitment to developing exceptional communicators, advocates and problem-solvers.

Located in the heart of Phoenix, one of the nation’s fastest-growing and most dynamic cities, ASU Law offers unmatched opportunities for experiential learning and professional growth. Students benefit from close proximity to courts, law firms, government agencies, nonprofits and global businesses, all while enjoying the energy and innovation that define our city and state.

Our reach extends well beyond downtown Phoenix. Through programs in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles and Window Rock on the Navajo Nation, along with flexible online and hybrid learning opportunities, ASU Law is redefining access to legal education and expanding opportunities for students to learn where and how it works best for them.

At ASU Law, we are continuing to build momentum through advancing legal education, expanding access and preparing leaders who will shape the future of the profession and the communities they serve. I invite you to learn more about our community and discover what makes ASU Law an extraordinary place to study, grow and lead.

Angela M. Banks

Interim Dean and Charles J. Merriam Distinguished Professor of Law

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Connect with Interim Dean Angela Banks on LinkedIn, keep up with ASU Law news and get involved in our work as we reimagine legal education.

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