University of Detroit Mercy named Nicholas Schroeck the next dean of the School of Law. While the University conducted a national dean search, Schroeck served as interim dean. He is a leader in legal education, a sought-after environmental law expert, and a member of the State Bar of Michigan.

"We look forward to Dean Schroeck's continued leadership at the School of Law," said Pamela Zarkowski, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Detroit Mercy. "His commitment to excellence in legal education and to our Jesuit and Mercy traditions will continue to benefit our students and the communities we serve."

Schroeck joined the faculty in 2018. In his prior role as associate dean for experiential education, he served on the School of Law's leadership team, led the clinical program and externship program, and secured significant support for the experiential education programs from community partners, alumni, and friends of Detroit Mercy Law.

"Detroit Mercy Law is thriving, and Dean Schroeck is well positioned to ensure our continued success and growth," said Erin Archerd, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Associate Professor of Law, who served on the dean search committee. "Dean Schroeck is passionate about our mission of educating the complete lawyer and well respected among our faculty, our national peers in legal education, and the legal community."

Schroeck has been a member of the State Bar of Michigan throughout his legal career. His practice supports communities in and around Detroit and the transnational Great Lakes region. The Michigan State Bar Foundation named him a 2024 Fellow in recognition of his leadership, professional excellence, and service to the community.

As a sought-after environmental law expert, his scholarship includes over 100 publications, presentations, and media appearances on legal issues impacting environmental justice. His research focuses on reducing air and water pollution, promoting mass transportation, and advancing citizen suit enforcement of environmental laws.

After joining Detroit Mercy Law, Schroeck launched the environmental law clinic and also taught upper-level environmental law courses. Through his clinical work, Schroeck has litigated cases for several prominent environmental advocacy organizations and strengthened local, state, and federal environmental protections through policy advocacy.

Prior to joining academia, he worked with the Great Lakes Environmental Law Center, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Great Lakes Commission. During the Flint Water Crisis, the Genesee County Prosecutor's Office named him a special assistant prosecutor to aid in their investigations.

"I am proud to serve as dean of Detroit Mercy Law," stated Schroeck. "The mission of educating the complete lawyer in the Jesuit and Mercy traditions brought me to Detroit Mercy Law and continues to inspire me. We will continue to lean into our mission and traditions as we work with a renewed focus on training the next generation of complete lawyers to serve clients and our community in the pursuit of justice."

To learn more, visit www.law.udmercy.edu.