St. Thomas University's Law School Ranks at the Top for Public Interest Attorneys in Florida

St. Thomas University's Law School: A Beacon for Mission-Driven Attorneys

St. Thomas University's Benjamin L. Crump College of Law has recently earned the distinction of being the top law school in Florida for producing graduates who pursue careers in Public Interest Law. This accolade was awarded by U.S. News & World Report, which recognizes the commitment of its graduates to serve nonprofit organizations, public defender offices, and other marginalized groups and causes. As the demand for attorneys who prioritize service and community engagement grows, this recognition highlights the pivotal role that STU Law plays in shaping mission-driven legal professionals.

In fact, U.S. News & World Report reported that around 14% of STU Law graduates are now working within the newly established Public Interest Law category. Not only did STU secure the top spot among Florida's law schools, but it also achieved an impressive 22nd place nationally, showcasing its strong commitment to social justice and advocacy.

"This accomplishment underscores our commitment to service and community, which is at the heart of our Catholic mission," said Dean Tarlika Nunez-Navarro. "We believe that the law school should be a force for good, and our graduates are dedicated to using their legal education to uplift and support those in need."

President David A. Armstrong echoed this sentiment, stating, "Our Dean, faculty, students, and alumni are united in advancing the Mission of our university. While we are always grateful when receiving national accolades, we know that the true reward lies in the impact of the work itself. We remain humbled and proud to serve, teach, and lead with purpose, always striving to make a difference in the lives of our students and the communities we touch."

The criteria for U.S. News & World Report's rankings include surveys completed by accredited law schools, with the latest iteration introducing the Public Interest Law as one of three special categories. This reflects not only the school’s commitment to educational excellence but also a response to the increasing need for legal practitioners focused on serving the public good.

STU Law has long been known for its diversity and inclusion efforts. The college boasts a student body that is 85% non-white, comprised of numerous first-generation college students. In this regard, STU Law is among the most diverse law schools in the nation, trailing only a few prominent Puerto Rican institutions and Howard University, an HBCU, for this distinction. Such diversity enriches the educational environment and equates to a broader perspective among future lawyers.

The success of STU Law extends beyond rankings and diversity metrics. The quality of education has shown remarkable improvement, with first-time bar passage rates soaring. Specifically, 83% of first-time test takers passed the July 2024 bar exam, marking an all-time high for the college, and exceeding Florida's state average of 76.6%.

As STU Law continues to attract talented students with rising LSAT scores and GPAs—in 2024, the top third of the class achieved scores of 155 and GPAs of 3.59—the institution’s enrollment numbers have also spiked dramatically. The fall 2024 semester saw a record 395 new students— up 66% from 2023 and over 132% from 2018, when President Armstrong took office.

St. Thomas University, located in Miami Gardens, Florida, stands as one of the region's leading Catholic universities. With a commitment to academic rigor and professional integrity, STU not only prepares its students for their respective careers but also encourages them to be ethical leaders in the global community. STU offers more than 60 degree programs across various fields and is currently undergoing significant expansions, with over $123 million in construction projects aimed at enhancing its facilities and academic offerings.

In conclusion, the achievement of St. Thomas University's Benjamin L. Crump College of Law as a top producer of mission-driven attorneys speaks volumes about its commitment to serving the community and championing social justice. As society grapples with numerous legal and ethical challenges, institutions like STU Law are critical in cultivating the next generation of public interest lawyers who will advocate for those most in need. Their mission-driven approach not only fulfills a vital societal role but also inspires a future where legal representation is accessible and equitable for all.