Richmond Law announces its new dean

Jacob Rooksby, dean of Gonzaga University School of Law, will become Richmond Law’s dean on July 1.

“Rooksby brings a strong record of leadership and innovation,” said university provost Joan Saab.

Rooksby is a professor of law and leadership studies, and an attorney specializing in intellectual property and higher education law. He worked at McGuireWoods in Richmond, where he lived from 2007 to 2011.

“I’ve long admired Richmond Law for its distinctive combination of academic excellence, collegial culture, and strong sense of place, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to build on what is already a thriving school,” Rooksby said.

“Jacob clearly recognizes the strength of Richmond Law today,” Saab said, “including its outstanding faculty and the school’s excellent reputation. Those involved in the search were struck by how closely his values align with the mission of our university.”