September 23, 2025

ASU Law’s Tamara Herrera honored with awards for excellence in legal writing and service

The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University proudly celebrates Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Tamara Herrera, who was recently named the 2026 recipient of the Thomas F. Blackwell Memorial Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Legal Writing. Presented jointly by the Association of Legal Writing Directors and the Legal Writing Institute, the award recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the discipline of legal writing.

 

“Dean Herrera’s impact on ASU Law and the broader legal community is immeasurable. Her dedication to excellence, her prioritization of the student academic experience, and her leadership in advancing legal writing and advocacy embodies the very best of our profession,” said Stacy Leeds, Willard H. Pedrick Dean and Regents Professor of Law. “These recognitions reflect what we at ASU Law have long known — she is a remarkable colleague and mentor to countless professors and attorneys and her influence will be felt for generations.”

 

Herrera, who holds a Distinguished Endowed Professorship in Legal Method, has taught at ASU Law since 2001 and is nationally known for her dedication to student success, innovative teaching and leadership within the legal writing community. Her recognition comes as ASU Law continues to be ranked #3 in the nation for legal writing by U.S. News & World Report, underscoring the program’s strength and impact on preparing students for practice.

 

In addition to this national honor, Herrera was recently named the 2025 Maricopa County Bar Association Robert R. Mills Member of the Year. A longtime leader in the local bar, she has been actively involved since 1996, serving in roles such as chair of the Environmental and Natural Resources Section and a longtime Editorial Board member of the Maricopa Lawyer. For nearly two decades, she has also authored a monthly legal writing column, sharing practical advice with tens of thousands of practicing attorneys.

 

Herrera’s career reflects a deep commitment to mentoring students and colleagues alike. She has guided countless students as a moot court judge, law review advisor, and mentor, while also helping shape the careers of fellow faculty nationwide through her work with the Association of Legal Writing Directors, the Legal Writing Institute and the Rocky Mountain Legal Writing Conference. Former students and colleagues alike describe her as a generous leader, gifted teacher and warm presence who has transformed legal writing education.

 

Together, these recent honors highlight Herrera’s extraordinary influence across local and national communities. From her scholarship and teaching to her service and mentorship, she has strengthened ASU Law’s reputation for legal writing excellence while advancing the profession with compassion, innovation and dedication.

Written by Kourtney Kelley