Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson is set to return to his alma mater, the University of Arkansas, this time as a distinguished member of its law school faculty.
At a Glance
- Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson is joining the University of Arkansas School of Law as “executive in residence” in spring 2025.
- Hutchinson will teach a course on leadership in state and federal government and participate in continuing legal education and moot court programs.
- Hutchinson’s diverse career includes significant roles such as U.S. attorney, congressman, DEA Administrator, and Governor of Arkansas.
- The law school’s dean praised Hutchinson’s professional and political career, highlighting his value to the community.
A Remarkable Addition to Academia
The University of Arkansas School of Law is welcoming former Governor Asa Hutchinson as its new “executive in residence” starting in the spring of 2025. Hutchinson is set to bring his extensive experience in law, governance, and policy to the classroom, where he will teach leadership in state and federal government. His involvement will also extend to continuing legal education and moot court programs.
Hutchinson’s appointment comes as a significant move for the law school, which is looking forward to integrating his diverse background into its academic framework. Dean Cynthia Nance expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Governor Hutchinson’s professional career as an accomplished attorney and his political career as a United States representative, governor and presidential candidate make him an excellent addition to the law school community.”
#UARKLaw is absolutely thrilled that former Gov. Asa Hutchinson will teach a course on leadership in state and federal government and participate in continuing legal education and moot court programs during the spring semester.https://t.co/AeyW0GYskj
— Arkansas Law School (@UARKLaw) August 22, 2024
From Public Office to the Classroom
Hutchinson’s professional journey is marked by a series of high-profile roles that have prepared him uniquely for this academic position. His public service began as the youngest U.S. Attorney, appointed by President Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. He later served as a congressman, was one of the House managers in the impeachment case against President Bill Clinton, and held significant roles under President George W. Bush, including administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration and undersecretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
“This is where it all began for me,” Hutchinson said in a statement. “To be here is an honor and exhilarating. To see the excitement of the students and their dedication to make a difference and pursue justice is inspiring.”
Excited to be engaged with teaching and mentoring. https://t.co/VfdhlxnQ0b
— Gov. Asa Hutchinson (@AsaHutchinson) August 22, 2024
Impact on the Legal Community
Hutchinson, a graduate of Bob Jones University and the University of Arkansas School of Law, has achieved multiple milestones across his career. As Governor of Arkansas, he was recognized for his work in tax cuts, job creation, and initiatives in computer science education. Following his governorship, Hutchinson joined Scripps News as a political analyst after briefly running for the Republican presidential nomination.
“Governor Hutchinson’s professional career as an attorney and politician brings immense value to our community,” added Dean Nance. “We are thrilled for him to teach and to engage with the next generation of lawyers.”
In addition to his extensive resume, Hutchinson has tried over 80 major jury trials, which adds practical courtroom experience to his rich academic and professional background. His diverse career trajectory, from federal appointments to state governance, positions him uniquely to offer unparalleled insights into the complexities of the legal system, public service, and policy-making processes.
Sources
1. Hutchinson joining University of Arkansas law school faculty
2. Asa Hutchinson to join University of Arkansas law school faculty next year
