Dear Friends,

Our Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University thrives because of our distinct  community. I can tell you that I feel more strongly than ever about our bright future.

We continue to focus on our critical priorities such as welcoming a new class, bar passage, and employment opportunities. Our prestigious body of evening graduates work with us closely to let everyone know that a law school education can be in anyone's future through our part-time evening program - the only one of its kind in the region.

We are stretching ourselves to achieve a shared vision. Together we have identified three vision pillars: developing collaborative learning opportunities, teaching principles of leadership, and promoting community well-being. It is clear these vision pillars resonate deeply with our Duquesne Kline School of Law community; in fact, every person with whom I have spoken has expressed a connection to at least one of the pillars and offered insight and support in their own unique way.

Collaborative Learning emphasizes our need to educate lawyers with skills beyond the courtroom; we must equip today's lawyers for the practice of law in this rapidly changing landscape by integrating critical modern skills such as financial literacy, business acumen, along with a sophistication and command of emerging technology trends that are transforming our society and global economy.

Teaching Principles of Leadership emphasizes creating a culture that instills a leadership mindset so that our graduates are prepared to ethically lead governments, enterprises, and organizations to make a positive impact in the world around us.

Finally, Community Well-Being places inclusion and belonging as fundamental imperatives, while ensuring that we are modeling respectful discourse, and emphasizing healthy living and resilience.

To those of you already a part of our Duquesne Kline School of Law family, I thank you for your dedication and continued commitment. To prospective students, I want to welcome you to prepare for your future with our outstanding faculty, staff, alumni and community. If you have any questions about how we can help, I am always available at lawdeanFREEDUQUESNE.

Be well,

April Mara Barton
Dean and Professor of Law