Dear Alumni and Friends,
Since arriving here, we have reintroduced the Law School as "New York's law school." Indeed, our School has a proud and rich history dating back to 1891. As we near our 125th anniversary, we are at a defining moment of transition within the legal profession. In recognition of this, we are positioning our educational programs so that our students are leaders in this new era. With your incredible support, together, we will write the next chapters of New York Law School's history.
In the past year, our progress and achievements have been broadly recognized in the legal community and beyond. We received national attention after introducing one of the country's first two-year honors J.D. program; we were recognized for the historic expansion of our clinical programs by being named as one of the top schools in the nation for clinical training in U.S. News & World Report and
National Jurist magazines; we have earned Presidential Honors for our
pro bono work; and, after four straight years of decline, we increased the New York State Bar passage rate by 14 points to 83 percent in one year.
With our new Strategic Plan being implemented, we are focusing on strengthening the areas key to our School's success: Academic Excellence and Innovation; Career Success; Intellectual Life; Community Engagement; and Operations. We look forward to a future in which NYLS continues to be recognized as an influential leader and innovator in legal education and scholarship. And we thank you for all you have done to make this possible.
Today, I am pleased to share with you the Law School's 2013 Annual Report. Reading the Donor Honor Rolls is tremendously gratifying, because they tell of your belief in our School and your desire to see it succeed. Your continued support and engagement is the cornerstone that enables us to provide a meaningful educational experience, offer scholarship support to deserving students, and help our students have a successful start in the profession.
Please consider continuing your investment in the future of New York Law School this year by visiting http://www.nyls.edu/annualfund. Your 100 percent tax-deductible donation is critical to ensure we continue to have the tools to build upon our momentum and achieve even more this year.
I thank you for all that you do in support of our students, faculty, and alumni. I know that you stand proud and ready to help, and it means so much to us.
Once again, thank you for your commitment and support.
Warm regards,
Dean Anthony W. Crowell