#United States #Newtown #Sudha Setty #LSAC #CUNY Law

Sudha Setty's New Role at LSAC

The Law School Admission Council (LSAC), a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing law school admissions, has announced the appointment of Sudha Setty as its new President and CEO, effective July 1, 2025. Currently serving as the dean of the City University of New York (CUNY) School of Law, Setty's extensive background in legal education and advocacy for equity perfectly aligns with the LSAC's mission to advance law and justice.

Background of Sudha Setty

Sudha Setty holds a JD from Columbia Law School, where she distinguished herself as a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar. Her career began at the prestigious law firm Davis Polk & Wardwell, followed by leadership roles in legal education. Previously, she was the dean of Western New England University School of Law before taking on her current role at CUNY. Setty is also recognized for her contributions to national security and civil rights law and is an elected member of the American Law Institute.

Commitment to Social Justice

Setty has dedicated her career to supporting social justice and increasing access to legal education. At CUNY Law, she expanded the Pipeline to Justice program, which aims to provide pathways for underrepresented students into legal careers. Furthermore, she founded the First Impressions Youth Legal Collaborative, assisting students in understanding important civic issues related to law and justice.

Vision for the Future

Expressing her thoughts on her selection, Setty stated, “I am honored to have been selected as LSAC's president and CEO. For years I have been deeply impressed with LSAC's mission and work in championing access, equity, and outcomes in legal education that advance law and justice.” She emphasized the challenges faced by law schools and the need to enhance diversity, access, and excellence in legal education.

The chair of the LSAC CEO search committee, Marcilynn Burke, dean of Tulane Law School, praised Setty's accomplishments and vision, stating, “Sudha's skill set as a dean and faculty member fits well with the aspirations of LSAC in its next chapter.”

Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion

As the first South Asian-American woman to serve as dean of an ABA-accredited law school, Setty is particularly committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in leadership roles within legal education. She advocates for collaborative efforts to support those historically excluded from leadership, highlighting the importance of building a diverse legal profession.

Transitioning Leadership

Setty will succeed Kellye Testy, who left LSAC in July to become the executive director and CEO of the Association of American Law Schools. Until Setty assumes her position in July 2025, Susan Krinsky will serve as the interim president and CEO of LSAC.

About LSAC

Founded to promote access, equity, and fairness in law school admissions, LSAC plays a vital role in supporting the legal education journey from pre-law through practice. Setty's appointment is seen as a significant step towards enhancing LSAC's mission and advancing the future of legal education.

In summary, Sudha Setty's leadership at LSAC marks a pivotal moment for the organization as it aims to address ongoing challenges in legal education while fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all aspiring lawyers. Her commitment to social justice and equity aligns seamlessly with LSAC's mandate, positioning her as a transformative figure for the future of legal education.