UW Law School Dean To Step Down | News

University of Wisconsin Law School Dean Kenneth B. Davis Jr. said he will step down in September 2011 and return to the faculty.

Davis thanked the faculty and staff at the Law School for their support during his time as dean, but remembered his feelings when he took the position.

"When I considered becoming a candidate for this job, I had considerable doubt whether I could do it for five years, much less 14," he said. "The fact that I have been able to do so is due principally to the good will and collegiality of the people of the UW Law School."

Following a one-year sabbatical, Davis intends to return to the teaching faculty. His specialties are corporate and securities law, and he has received both the university's and the Law School's Distinguished Teaching Awards. 

Davis came to the Law School in 1978 and has been dean of the school since December 1997, making him the school's second-longest-serving dean in its 142-year history. 

"We have been fortunate to have had someone with Ken's dedication, experience and talent guiding our Law School for so many years," said UW-Madison Chancellor Biddy Martin. "He has been innovative in taking the Law School in new directions, and we will miss his leadership."