Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law recently celebrated five significant milestones, including the 20th anniversary of the college’s naming and a decade in its current location at the Beus Center for Law and Society in downtown Phoenix. The event, held on Friday, drew over 200 attendees who reflected on the law school’s achievements and its commitment to public service.
Milestones and Achievements
Among the milestones celebrated were the law school’s 20 years since being named after Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, who was the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1981. The college also marked ten years in its downtown Phoenix facility, the establishment of the Master of Legal Studies program, and the continued growth of the Tribal Nations Policy Institute and the Lodestar Dispute Resolution Center. These programs have enhanced the school’s focus on legal education and community engagement.
ASU Law Interim Dean Angela Banks highlighted the school’s “remarkable new distinction” of being ranked in the top 10 for law in the 2026 ShanghaiRanking, emphasizing the institution’s academic excellence and research strength. She also announced a $200,000 donation from Judge Redfield T. Baum to endow the Justice Sandra Day O’Connor Chair, which will support the study of judicial integrity and ethical leadership.
Reflections on Legacy
Scott O’Connor, son of Justice O’Connor, spoke at the event and expressed pride in his mother’s legacy. He noted that the law school’s energy parallels her own commitment to public service and civic engagement.
The event underscored the law school’s dedication to serving the community. Since relocating to downtown Phoenix, ASU Law students have contributed over 540,000 hours of pro bono legal service and completed nearly 3,900 externships, averaging more than 500 per year.
Future Aspirations
Former ASU Law Dean Douglas Sylvester, who played a crucial role in establishing the Beus Center, noted the school’s goal of integrating legal education with the broader civic environment. He mentioned that the center has received several architectural honors, reflecting its innovative design and commitment to transparency and engagement.
In her closing remarks, Dean Banks emphasized the importance of preparing students to navigate legal challenges with integrity. She stated that the legacy of Justice O’Connor will continue to guide the school’s mission of public service and civic participation. “We have much to celebrate, and we also have much to do,” she said, reinforcing the school’s commitment to its students and the community.
Source: Arizona State University
