Sarah Jean Kelly Appointed Brooklyn Law’s New Dean of Students

President and Joseph Crea Dean David D. Meyer has announced today the appointment of Sarah Jean Kelly, incoming Dean of Students. She will join the Law School next semester on Feb. 5.

Previously the vice president for student success and retention strategy at St. John’s University, Kelly is a lawyer by training—having earned her J.D. at the Georgetown University Law Center—and holds an M.Ed. from the University of Virginia, and a B.A. in political science from Wellesley College.

Kelly has nearly 20 years of experience in higher education administration, including eight years in progressively responsible roles at two different law schools. At Georgetown University Law Center, she ran its large LL.M. program, overseeing the curriculum and the hiring and training of more than 350 adjunct faculty. More recently, at St. John’s School of Law, she rose from assistant dean for graduate studies to serve as interim vice dean for academic affairs during the first year of the COVID pandemic and finally to vice dean for administration, where she was responsible for all student services and academic support, diversity and inclusion, faculty support, communications, budget, and operations. In 2022, Kelly was appointed to her most recent position as vice president for student success and retention strategy, where she has overseen all student affairs, academic and career advising, residence life, and a range of services focused on student wellness and success.

“Sarah Kelly brings extensive senior leadership experience and a demonstrated passion for helping students thrive academically and personally,” Meyer said. “Throughout her impressive career, her rapid advancement has been driven by a passion for building strong and engaged academic communities and helping students achieve their life goals. It is that passion that now leads Sarah to BLS and to the opportunity to engage more directly with students in building a vibrant, supportive campus community.”

Kelly will succeed current Dean of Students Jennifer Lang, who will be transitioning to a new role as Director of Student Wellness and assisting in ensuring a “smooth and successful transition,” Meyer said.

"Jenn Lang has been unwavering in her support and dedication to our students, including through the COVID pandemic and other times of exceptional challenge,” Meyer said. “I am grateful that Dean Lang has agreed to continue her support of students after Dean Kelly's arrival in a new role as Director of Student Wellness.”