What's Happening?
Kellye Testy has been appointed as the new executive director and CEO of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS), effective July 1, 2024. She will succeed Judy Areen, who is retiring after a decade in the role. Testy is currently the president and CEO of the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), where she has been recognized for her influential leadership in legal education. Her tenure at LSAC has been marked by strategic advancements, including the implementation of online testing during the COVID-19 pandemic and the launch of initiatives like LawHub and a pathways program. Testy has a long history with AALS, having served as its president in 2016 and on various committees over the years. Her appointment is seen as a continuation of her commitment to legal education and inclusion.
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Why It's Important?
Testy's appointment is significant for the legal education sector, as she brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership and innovation. Her role at AALS will likely influence the direction of legal education in the U.S., especially in terms of inclusivity and adapting to modern challenges. The transition comes at a time when legal education faces numerous challenges, including changes in law and higher education. Testy's leadership style, characterized by inclusivity and ambition, is expected to drive AALS forward, potentially impacting law schools, faculty, and students nationwide. Her previous collaboration with AALS suggests a smooth transition and continued partnership between LSAC and AALS.
What's Next?
As Testy prepares to take on her new role, she will continue her work at LSAC, focusing on building the future of justice alongside its board and member schools. Her leadership at AALS is anticipated to bring new initiatives and strategies to address current challenges in legal education. Stakeholders in the legal education community, including law schools and faculty, will be watching closely to see how Testy's vision and experience will shape the future of AALS and its impact on the broader legal education landscape.
Beyond the Headlines
Testy's appointment highlights the ongoing evolution in leadership within legal education institutions, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion. Her career trajectory, including her role as the first woman dean at the University of Washington School of Law, underscores the shifting dynamics in legal academia towards more inclusive leadership. This change may inspire other institutions to prioritize diversity and innovative approaches in their leadership selections.
