It is with mixed emotions that Dean Usha R. Rodrigues addressed the University of Georgia (UGA) community from New Orleans following a tragic event. A violent incident occurred during a gathering of the UGA community celebrating the new year and supporting the Bulldogs in the Sugar Bowl. "While I wish my first message to you as dean could have begun on a less somber note, I have been deeply moved by the compassion and solidarity demonstrated by our students and alumni who have supported one another during such an awful time," Rodrigues stated.
Reflecting on the law school's motto, “Prepare. Connect. Lead,” Rodrigues emphasized the importance of connection, particularly within legal education. She highlighted how understanding and connections among different fields of law are crucial for students.
Rodrigues reassured that UGA Law School is thriving due to collective efforts, aiming to remain a leading national public law school by matching excellence with access. The school plans to recruit vibrant faculty engaged in national, state, and local issues while fostering interdisciplinary research opportunities.
Student success will continue to be measured through outcomes like bar passage rates and employment. "We want our graduates to connect their passions with their professional dreams – whether it is big law or solo practice; public service or in-house; practice in Rome, GA, or in Rome, Italy," she said.
UGA Law has achieved high rankings in national evaluations such as U.S. News & World Report (#20 overall/#7 among publics) and Best Value Law School (#1 for five of the last seven years). This recognition reflects the quality of education provided at UGA Law School.
Rodrigues acknowledged that the institution's strength lies in its people: faculty, staff, alumni, students, and friends. She expressed her honor at being chosen as dean and looks forward to building relationships within this strong community.
"I am deeply honored to have been chosen as your dean," she wrote, expressing her commitment to advancing UGA Law’s mission and vision alongside its community members.