Law Schools

Arkansas Law Dean Wants to be Known as Lawyer of Faith

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The woman who became the first African-American dean of the University of Arkansas law school is an expert in labor and employment law. But Cynthia Nance draws on her Lutheran background as well as her legal education.

Nance is committed to public service and wants to be known as a lawyer of faith, according to The Lutheran.

Colleagues told the publication that Nance has a critical legal mind, a humble manner and an easy sense of humor. She serves on the board of the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service and is a member of the social ministry committee at her church.

The University of Arkansas also noted her extensive bar work. She was honored by the Arkansas Bar Association as Outstanding Lawyer-Citizen of 2005. She also recently served as a model at a fashion show benefiting Fayetteville’s Peace at Home Family Shelter.

“As lawyers, we’re called to be a voice for those whose voices wouldn’t be heard otherwise,” she told The Lutheran. “I hope that I’ve been able to blend my legal knowledge with what I believe I’m called to do as a person of faith.”

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