Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

In June, Jelani Jefferson Exum began her tenure as the 10th dean and Rose DiMartino and Karen Sue Smith Professor of Law at St. John’s Law School. In an interview, she discussed her new role and the guiding themes of her leadership as the institution enters its second century.

"My transition to St. John’s Law has been great! I’ve received an incredibly warm welcome from alumni, staff and administrators, students, and faculty," Exum stated. She added that although her schedule is busy, she is enthusiastic about engaging with the community to realize their collective vision for the school.

Exum introduced three central themes: Excellence, Prominence, and Impact. "These vision themes capture both the legacy and the exciting potential of our Law School," she explained. Highlighting educational excellence that leads graduates into successful careers, Exum aims to invest in programs that distinguish St. John’s from other law schools through practical knowledge opportunities offered by in-house clinics, academic centers, and innovative courses.

She also emphasized the school's significant impact over nearly a century: "Since our founding almost a century ago, we’ve transformed lives by opening the legal profession’s doors to a diverse student body." The focus remains on fostering a diverse community guided by St. John’s Vincentian mission.

Reflecting on her initial months at St. John's Law School, Exum expressed surprise at how deeply warmth permeates its community: "I knew St. John’s had the reputation of being a warm and welcoming law school, but I’ve been wonderfully surprised by how that warmth permeates our community."

Exum's family is adjusting to life in Queens with enthusiasm: "I’ve most loved exploring Queens through my kids’ eyes because everything is so new for them," she shared.

As the first Black dean and only the second woman to lead St. John's Law School, Exum expressed deep honor: "My identity matters... I understand that for many law students and alumni from underrepresented communities, I’m a dean that understands their unique experiences." She emphasized inclusivity within their diverse community as crucial for fostering spaces where all students can thrive.

The institution will host a Welcome Celebration in October honoring Exum's appointment.

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