Dean Wendy Perdue’s leadership leaves lasting impact on Richmond Law
UNIVERSITY NEWS
Longtime dean steps down after guiding the school through growth and transformation.
When Wendy Perdue became dean of the University of Richmond School of Law in 2011, she stepped into a role that would ultimately place her among the longest-serving law school deans in the nation. Fifteen years later, she is preparing to step down at the end of the academic year — leaving behind a legacy defined by steady leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to community.
“I am proud that this law school is a place in which outstanding faculty, students, and staff can thrive,” Perdue said. “It is exciting to see the fabulous work that so many people are doing.”
Her departure comes at a moment of transition and opportunity. The school navigated significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, a major building renovation, and a reaccreditation visit. With those milestones complete, Perdue believes the timing is right for new leadership.
“With all those challenges behind us, this seemed like a good time for a new dean to start with a clean slate to take the school to the next level,” she said.
As the first female law school dean in Virginia, she has made significant inroads and is a recognized national leader in legal education. During her time as UR’s law dean, she served as president of the Association of American Law Schools, was inducted into the Virginia Lawyers Hall of Fame for her career accomplishments and contributions to the bar and Virginia’s legal system, and was named a Virginia Lawyers Weekly 2025 Circle of Excellence honoree for her level of achievement and record of leadership.
In March, her contributions were formally recognized by the Virginia General Assembly through a Senate Joint Resolution honoring her “15 years of visionary leadership and outstanding contributions to legal education.” The resolution noted that the law school has “flourished under her thoughtful, steady leadership.”
Significant accomplishments during Perdue’s tenure include:
- Overseeing the implementation of a renowned first-year legal writing program and the Professional Identity Formation Program, which have become models for other institutions nationwide.
- Establishing the post-graduate Bridge to Practice Fellowship Program that has helped more than 150 graduates launch their careers.
- Completing a renovation that transformed the law school building into a modern, inviting environment that meets the needs of the Richmond School of Law community.
- Engaging alumni, the legal community, and many others in supporting the law school’s commitment to excellence through enhanced networking and fundraising programs.
Joan Saab, executive vice president and provost, praised Perdue’s lasting influence.
“Dean Perdue’s vision, dedication, and leadership have left an enduring mark on our law school and the University of Richmond,” said Saab. “Her thoughtful approach and deep commitment to the Richmond School of Law, and to the faculty, staff, and students who make up its community, have ensured continued success.”
Though she is stepping down as dean, Perdue is not leaving Richmond. After a sabbatical, she will return to the faculty as a professor of law.
“The most important strength of Richmond Law is its people,” she said, “and happily I will not miss that because I plan to remain on the faculty.”