Dean Burke: Start of the Academic Year Brings Renewed Energy
As we begin a new academic year at Tulane Law School, I am thrilled to share the sense of celebration and energy that has filled our campus this August. We proudly welcomed the Class of 2028—241 bright, accomplished, and eager students—who have already begun their journey as future members of our profession. Their first week was anchored by tradition, including the Oath of Professionalism ceremony in McAlister Auditorium, where they pledged to uphold the values and responsibilities of the law. It is always a powerful moment, reminding us of the significance of our shared mission.
This extraordinary class joins us from 39 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and 10 other countries. They represent more than 100 undergraduate institutions and bring with them a wide range of academic backgrounds, from political science and engineering to journalism, social work, and even unmanned aerial systems. Among them are five veterans or active-duty service members, as well as students whose experiences range from professional athletics to entrepreneurial ventures. Their talents and perspectives will enrich not only their own education but also the broader Tulane Law community.
We are also delighted this fall to welcome 10 new faculty members, whose expertise spans constitutional law, criminal law, health law, and other vital areas. In addition, we celebrate the arrival of Randel Young, the new Executive Director of the Tulane Energy Law & Policy Center, who will help lead our efforts to expand the school’s impact in this important field. These new colleagues bring fresh perspectives and deep knowledge in a variety of legal fields, strengthening Tulane Law’s position as a leader in innovative, interdisciplinary legal education.
As we began the new school year, we also took a moment to reflect on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. During a panel commemorating the anniversary of the storm, Dean Emeritus Lawrence Ponoroff and several alumni shared powerful memories of the challenges of rebuilding Tulane Law and supporting our students in the aftermath of the storm. Not all anniversaries are somber, though—this newsletter also celebrates an inspiring milestone: the story of Cynthia Samuel (L’73), the first woman to join our faculty as a professor.
To our alumni, I extend my deepest gratitude for your ongoing support of Tulane Law. Your mentorship, generosity, and advocacy open doors for our students and ensure the strength of our community, and our law school, which recently was ranked 27th in placing graduates at the country’s largest law firms. That accomplishment is in no small part thanks to you.
As we embark on another year of scholarship, service, and innovation, I am confident that the traditions of excellence and leadership that define Tulane Law will continue to thrive. Together, we are shaping the future of the legal profession. I look forward to sharing more of the accomplishments of our students, faculty, and staff with you in the months ahead.
— Marcilynn A. Burke
Dean and Mitchell Franklin Professor of Law
