Dean Brinkley Builds Legacy of Excellence at Carolina Law

In the decade since Martin H. Brinkley ’92 took the helm at UNC School of Law, the School has transformed into a national powerhouse. Now, as he announces his return to teaching, Brinkley leaves behind a legacy of strategic growth that positions Carolina Law for continued excellence. 

“After serving nearly eleven years as dean of Carolina Law, I’ve decided it’s time to step down and return to my passions for teaching, writing, and artistic pursuits,” Brinkley said. “Leading this institution has been the professional honor of my lifetime.” 

The impact of his leadership resonates throughout every aspect of Carolina Law. The School has climbed 27 spots in national rankings to reach 18th nationwide, standing among the top four public law schools in America. This rise translates directly to student success: 99.5% of graduates find employment and 97% pass the bar exam on their first attempt. 

Behind these impressive outcomes lies a foundation of deliberate strategic initiatives. Brinkley orchestrated a record-breaking $78 million capital campaign that fueled the school’s ascent. With these resources, Carolina Law tripled student scholarships while maintaining the lowest tuition among top-ranked law schools. The curriculum expanded with innovative offerings, and new clinics emerged through the Institute of Innovation. 

Perhaps most significantly, Brinkley transformed the faculty itself, recruiting half of the school’s current professors during his tenure. This academic renewal brings fresh energy and perspectives that will continue shaping Carolina Law for years to come. 

“Martin Brinkley has provided extraordinarily strategic leadership during his deanship, helping us identify and recruit terrific new faculty and building an excellent administrative team, things that will live on long after he steps down as our leader,” said Lissa Broome, Burton Craige Distinguished Professor and director of the Center for Banking and Finance. “The increase in the law school rankings is remarkable, but what matters most is what undergirds that increase—the success of our students passing the bar and in employment, with an astounding 99.5% placement rate.” 

Broome’s perspective spans decades of institutional evolution. “In my career here, I’ve loved working for each of our deans,” she added. “They’ve all brought different strengths to the law school and have helped us grow and evolve. We will miss Martin’s leadership, but I’m delighted he’ll still be my faculty colleague. I can’t wait to see where our next dean takes us on the next part of our journey.” 

This sense of continuity amid transition resonates with students as well. Josh Jacobs ’25, recent Student Bar Association president, reflects on what drew him to Carolina Law and what continues to make it special. 

“There were three main factors that contributed to my decision to come to Carolina Law: affordability, ranking, and the robust clinical program,” Jacobs said. “To be so highly ranked, Carolina Law is very affordable relative to comparable law schools. I think this aspect will continue to attract high caliber students.” 

Beyond rankings and affordability, Jacobs points to something more fundamental. “I think the thing that will consistently bring people to Carolina Law is the community,” he continued. “I can’t tell you how many times over the years, I have had students tell me that they made their decision after coming to Admitted Students Day and seeing how welcoming everyone was. While Dean Brinkley has been instrumental in shaping the school into what it is today, the stakeholders of this community—students, faculty, staff, alumni—and their passion for UNC are what make UNC great. That will not change.” 

S. Elizabeth Gibson, Burton Craige Professor of Law Emerita, shares this confidence in Carolina Law’s continued excellence. “His approach to this transition ensures our momentum will continue. The foundation he’s established positions the School for excellence long into the future.” 

This foundation will serve as a launching pad for the next chapter in Carolina Law’s story. Brinkley will continue leading until his successor arrives, ensuring a seamless handoff that maintains the school’s momentum. For prospective students considering law schools and alumni watching their alma mater’s trajectory, the message is clear: Carolina Law’s progress over the past decade has created a platform for even greater achievements in the years ahead.