February 28, 2003
Professor James J. Alfini of Northern Illinois University College of Law will be the ninth President and Dean of South Texas College of Law. South Texas Board of Directors Chairman Harry P. Hutchens says “Professor Alfini enjoys the absolute and complete support of the South Texas Board of Directors. We believe he is very capable and will fit beautifully into the Houston legal and business community.” Alfini will replace Frank T. Read who has held the post for the past eight years and is returning to the teaching faculty. Alfini served as dean of Northern Illinois University College of Law from 1991-1997 and has taught at NIU, Florida State University College of Law, Chicago-Kent School of Law, Hamline University School of Law and Santa Clara University School of Law. “James Alfini is an outstanding person and will be a great leader for South Texas,” said Dean Read. “I am fully confident that South Texas will continue to thrive under his leadership.”

“I am delighted at the prospect of serving a law school that has made so many positive strides in recent years,” said Alfini. “I look forward to working with the talented faculty and staff, the dedicated students and alumni, and the thoughtful board of directors as we continue the positive momentum established by Dean Read.” Alfini holds a B.A. from Columbia University and a J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law. He has served as the Chair of both the American Bar Association and Association of American Law School’s sections on Alternative Dispute Resolution. He currently teaches Constitutional law, mediation and professional responsibility. He is a published expert on Alternative Dispute Resolution, judicial rule making, mediation, and judicial ethics.

Sheila Hansel
hansel@stcl.edu
Public Relations Manager
South Texas College of Law
Communications