The LSU Law community is expressing gratitude for the leadership of Dean Alena M. Allen, who will conclude her tenure at the end of the academic year. Allen, appointed as dean in spring 2023, has made significant strides in elevating the school’s profile, guiding it to a remarkable increase in its U.S. News and World Report ranking from No. 109 to No. 84, the highest in over a decade.
As she prepares for her transition to a full-time faculty position at the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center on September 19, 2025, Dean Allen’s accomplishments are being recognized. Under her leadership, the first-year class enrollment reached 231 students for the 2025-26 academic year, marking the largest incoming class in recent history. Notably, the Class of 2028 boasts impressive academic credentials, with a median LSAT score of 157 and an undergraduate GPA of 3.72.
Significant Achievements Under Dean Allen
During her tenure, Dean Allen has implemented numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the educational environment. She successfully recruited over ten new full-time faculty members and promoted six faculty members to Professor of Professional Practice. In a significant overhaul, she modernized the first-year curriculum at LSU Law for the first time in 40 years.
Furthermore, Dean Allen has increased funding for summer public interest fellowships to more than $40,000, providing students with valuable opportunities to work in public service. She also revitalized the LSU Law alumni dean’s advisory council and strengthened the LSU Law Distinguished Alumni Awards program, fostering closer connections with graduates.
Financially, Dean Allen’s efforts resulted in a 50 percent increase in tuition revenue and reinforced the financial stability of the Summer in Lyon Program, which offers students a unique international experience.
National Impact and Future Plans
Dean Allen’s influence extends beyond the Baton Rouge campus. She serves on several prestigious committees, including the American Bar Association Police Practice Consortium Advisory Committee and the U.S. News & World Report Dean’s Advisory Committee. Her involvement in national discussions surrounding legal education underscores her commitment to advancing the field.
As LSU Law prepares for this leadership transition, the law faculty and staff will be invited to nominate candidates for an Interim Dean. This individual will oversee the school until a national search is completed for the next permanent dean.
Dean Allen’s vision and dedication have left an indelible mark on LSU Law, setting a strong foundation for future growth and excellence as she embarks on the next chapter of her career.
