Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, has named Roscoe Jones Jr. dean of the Drake Law School. This is the first time a Black person has been appointed to the role of dean in Drake University’s history. Jones will begin his new position on July 1st.
Speaking to Jones’ appointment, Sue Mattison, provost at Drake University stated, “Roscoe’s talents and experience leave him uniquely suited to advance the Law School’s mission to prepare students to promote justice, serve their communities, and uphold ideals of ethics and professionalism in their future endeavors.”
Jones has a wide breadth of experience in law, government relations, and academics. Currently, he is an adjunct professor at the University of Michigan School of Law, as well as a partner at the Gibson, Dunn, & Crutcher law firm located in Washington, D.C. In addition to these two roles, Jones is chair of the Board of the American Constitution Society, as well as secretary for the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
Earlier in his career, Jones served in numerous governmental advising positions including chief of staff to United States Representative Abigail Spanberger, legislative director to Senator Dianne Feinstein, and senior counsel to Senator Cory Booker. Jones was previously senior counsel on the United States Senate Judiciary Committee for then-Chairman Patrick Leahy. Additionally, he served in a number of different roles within the United States Department of Justice.
“I am humbled to lead a community committed to an unwavering collegiality and a singular mission to prepare students to promote justice, service, and ethics,” said Jones. “I look forward to serving our talented students as dean and working alongside our dedicated faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters to train the next generation of leaders, grow our impact, and improve justice through scholarship, teaching, and service.”
Jones holds a bachelor’s degree from Stanford University, and a juris doctorate from the University of Virginia. His previously held academic appointments include roles at Yale Law School, Harvard Kennedy School of Government, University of Chicago Law School, Georgetown University Law Center, George Washington University Law School, University of Washington Law School, and the Daniel J. Evans School of Public Policy and Governance at the University of Washington.
