KURT L. SCHMOKE

Kurt Schmoke was appointed Dean of Howard University School of Law in 2002.

At the time of his appointed Dean Schmoke said, "The Howard University School of Law enjoys a great tradition of producing lawyers committed to using the law creatively to seek social justice.  This is a legacy to celebrate and build on as we make certain that our graduates are fully prepared to respond to the legal issues that will confront them both nationally and internationally." Schmoke noted that he was honored to join the faculty and to help nurture a new generation of leaders.

Schmoke earned his undergraduate degree in history from Yale University and pursued graduate studies as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford. He earned the Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School. Schmoke served as the mayor of Baltimore City for 12 years, from 1987 to 1999, and was the State's Attorney from 1982 to 1987. He most recently before becoming dean of the law school was a partner in the international law firm of Wilmer, Cutler and Pickering.

During his tenure as mayor, Schmoke initiated a number of programs in the areas of housing, education, public health and economic development. In 1992, President George Bush awarded him the national Literacy Award for his efforts to promote adult literacy, and in 1994 President Bill Clinton praised his programs to improve public housing and enhance community economic development. The Clinton Administration named Baltimore one of six cities to receive Empowerment Zone designation in 1994.

Schmoke's other public service includes his appointment as Assistant Director, White House Domestic Policy Staff under President Jimmy Carter.