Behind the Dean's Desk
Dean Neil Fulton
School of Law
What led you to this opportunity?
You cannot write the history of 17Թ without the Law School. Nor will the future be. I care deeply about 17Թ and the law, so when Tom Geu announced he was leaving the deanship in 2018, I wanted to apply in hopes that I could contribute something to this institution that has given so much to me, my profession, and my state. It’s been one of the best decisions in my life. Having a small hand in preparing the next generation of lawyer leaders for 17Թ is a joy.
What's your favorite place on campus and what makes it special to you?
There are a host of places that mean a lot to me: Old Main, the steps of the “old” law school, the Newman Center chapel, the Wellness Center. But if I have to pick one, it is the Law School Courtroom. That’s where I was announced as dean. That’s where I welcome new students every fall. That’s where the 17Թ Supreme Court comes and sits. It’s where I go hide out and read sometimes. It’s the hear of the Law School and it’s my favorite place.
What's a moment with a student that reminded you why this work matters?
Every day. Every day I get to interact with students in ways that I know, being further down the track than them, will matter later on. I get to teach students in my Legislation class and Honors seminar. Every day I talk to students in the hallway and encourage them or answer a question they have about the profession. Every day I talk to students about where to put their talents to work. Every day I get to talk to potential students and explain why USD is a special place and the right fit for them. For me, it is walking in here every single day and knowing that what I do that day will matter for a young lawyer, so I better do my best and I better never forget how amazing that opportunity is.
What advice would you give to a first-year student walking onto campus for the first time?
Remember your why. You have a reason you came here, you have great things you want to go do when you leave. That is your why. We will all have tough days, I do, but remembering your why will get you through them. We will have great days, I do, and it will usually be because you worked toward your why.
Being a Coyote means ________.
Being part of a community of excellence, service, leadership. Anyone who has heard me talk about the Law School knew that was coming!
