Former dean and distinguished legal scholar steps back into leadership role
Drake University announced today that former Drake Law Dean Jerry Anderson has been appointed interim dean of the Drake University Law School. Anderson, who served as dean from 2016 to 2024 and has been a member of the faculty for more than 35 years, will succeed former Dean Roscoe Jones. Anderson will serve for a one-year term while the University conducts a national search for its next permanent dean.
“Professor Anderson is a distinguished scholar and a proven leader whose dedication to this institution spans more than three decades,” said Drake University Provost Joseph M. Valenzano III. “Having successfully guided the Law School for eight years as dean, his deep institutional knowledge and track record of excellence make him uniquely equipped to lead us forward. I have full confidence in his vision and ability to support our students, faculty, staff, and broader community during this transition.”
During his previous tenure as dean, Anderson led transformative growth at Drake Law, elevating its national profile and expanding practical learning opportunities. Under his leadership, the Law School’s endowment grew by 44%, and he oversaw the launch of impactful programs, including the Law School’s Refugee Clinic.
“I am honored to step into this role and partner once again with our outstanding community of students, faculty, staff, and alumni,” said Anderson. “Drake Law has a storied history of excellence and is one of the top law schools in the country. I look forward to building upon our foundation of excellence while ensuring a seamless transition as we prepare for the Law School’s next great chapter.”
In addition to his administrative leadership, Anderson is the Richard M. and Anita Calkins Distinguished Professor of Law and a nationally recognized authority in environmental, administrative, and property law. Early in his career, he co-authored a groundbreaking Environmental Law coursebook that pioneered simulation-based learning for law students. Now in its fifth edition, the award-winning text has been adopted by top law schools across the country, including Stanford, Berkeley, Columbia, and Georgetown.
Beyond the classroom, Anderson’s legal research has shaped national legal policy on environmental penalty disparities, administrative rulemaking, and public land access rights. He is an active member of the American Law Institute, the American College of Environmental Lawyers, and the American College of Real Estate Lawyers, as well as a fellow in the American Bar Foundation.
Anderson holds a Juris Doctor with Order of the Coif honors from Stanford Law School and a Bachelor of Science with distinction from the University of Kansas.