We are excited to share the news that Holloran Center Co-Director Jerry Organ will serve as Interim Dean of the University of St. Thomas School of Law for the 2026-27 Academic Year. In a letter to faculty and staff this week, Professor Organ reiterated his commitment to steward and build on the unique community of care we have here at the School of Law. As one of the founding faculty members of the law school, he has been living out the mission as a servant leader from the school’s inception, and we know he will sustain and foster our goals of love of student, love of neighbor, and love of knowledge.

A letter from Provost Eddy Rojas regarding this appointment is included below.

Dear School of Law Faculty and Staff,

As you know, Dean Dan Kelly has accepted an offer to become the next dean of the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University. While we will miss Dan’s leadership and contributions to the University of St. Thomas School of Law, his appointment is also a meaningful recognition of the strength, reputation, and growing national profile of our law school.

Over the last several days, I have engaged in meaningful consultation with faculty and staff regarding the School of Law and the best way to proceed during this transition. I am grateful for the thoughtful group conversations, one-on-one discussions, and emails I have received. Your candor, wisdom, and evident care for the School of Law have been deeply helpful to me.

After listening carefully and discerning the best course of action, I have decided to appoint Professor Jerry Organ as interim dean of the School of Law, effective June 24. Jerry is widely respected within the School of Law, across the University, and nationally in legal education. He brings deep institutional knowledge, a steady and collaborative leadership style, and a longstanding commitment to the mission and excellence of the School of Law.

Professor Organ will serve as interim dean for the coming academic year while we conduct a national search for the next dean. During this period, our shared goal will be not simply to maintain the School of Law’s strong position, but to continue advancing its momentum, building on its many strengths, and sustaining its upward trajectory as one of the most mission-centered and respected law schools in the country.

The School of Law is in a very strong position. Our student outcomes, bar passage, employment results, national reputation, and distinctive mission all speak to the exceptional work of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and leadership. This is a community with real momentum, a clear sense of purpose, and a deep commitment to forming lawyers who lead with integrity, excellence, and a concern for the common good.

I am grateful to Jerry for his willingness to serve in this important role, and I know he will benefit from the partnership and support of this outstanding community. I am also grateful to all of you for your dedication to the School of Law and for the thoughtful way you have engaged this transition.

My best,

Eddy Rojas, Ph.D.

Executive Vice President and Provost