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New Texas A&M Law School Dean Named, University Commits $25 Million to School in AUF Funds

May 1,2014

New Dean Andrew Morriss

COLLEGE STATION—A nationally prominent legal scholar known for his work in a variety of regulatory issues, as well as for his teaching background, Andrew Morriss, PhD, JD, is the new dean of the Texas A&M University School of Law, effective July 1.

Prof. Morriss’ selection to lead the Fort Worth-based law school that Texas A&M acquired last year was approved Thursday (May 1) by The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents upon the unanimous recommendation of Chancellor John Sharp, interim President Mark Hussey and Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Karan Watson.

Prof. Morriss, who holds a Ph.D. degree in economics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in addition to his JD earned at The University of Texas at Austin, is currently the D. Paul Jones, Jr. & Charlene A. Jones Chairholder of Law at the University of Alabama School of Law. He is an acknowledged leader regarding regulatory issues involving environmental, energy and offshore financial centers.

He was the successful candidate in a national search that produced more than 60 nominations.

“Carol and I are thrilled to get to be part of the team at Texas A&M,” Morriss said. “This is a unique opportunity in American legal education, combining the excellent faculty, staff and students at the law school with one of America’s premier research universities.” His wife, Dr. Carol Akers, is a graduate of Texas A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

Chancellor Sharp underscored his commitment to move the new school into the top ranks.

“I have said since the beginning, we are committed to seeing the Texas A&M School of Law quickly become acknowledged as a leader in legal education,” he said. “Our unique commitment to teaching and service to the state of Texas will be our hallmark in this endeavor just as it has been over the 137- year history of Texas A&M University. These strategic investments and the appointment of Dr. Morriss as the inaugural Anthony G. Buzbee Dean only accelerate our efforts in this regard.”