Law Dean Robert Klonoff to step down, return to teaching and research

Robert Klonoff has announced his intention to step down as dean of the law school at the end of this academic year. After a sabbatical, he will return to the law school to pursue teaching and research.

Klonoff became dean in 2007 after successful stints in the offices of the U.S. Attorney and Solicitor General, in the Jones Day law firm, and on the faculty of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Law School.

During his six-plus years at Lewis & Clark, Dean Klonoff has advanced the reputation of the law school locally, nationally, and internationally. Under his leadership the law school has established an innovative program in global law, recruited impressive new talent to the faculty, and increased diversity in both the faculty and student ranks. Dean Klonoff has succeeded in attracting gift support for faculty positions, student scholarships, endowed lectures, and academic programs. He has brought an impressive roster of speakers to Lewis & Clark, including four U.S. Supreme Court Justices, and five former U.S. Solicitors General. And during a challenging time in the legal job market, he has led a major effort to help graduates find employment.

“Dean Klonoff has been a dedicated leader and an indefatigable champion of the law school. I appreciate the efforts he has made to promote cross-school collaboration. I am sad to lose him as a dean, but I know he will be an outstanding member of the faculty,” President Barry Glassner said.

“Most of all, I want to thank Bob for his extraordinary commitment to Lewis & Clark law students,” Glassner said. “By exposing our students to the world-class legal thinkers and leaders who teach and speak at the law school, and by using his extensive network and his own time and energy to help them find clerkships and jobs, he has exemplified the law school’s tradition of putting students first.”

In the coming weeks, President Glassner will initiate plans to ensure a smooth transition in leadership.