Judge Jan R. Jurden named Dean of Wilmington University School of Law

Wilmington University announced the appointment of the Honorable Jan R. Jurden as dean of the Wilmington University School of Law, effective April 1, 2025. (Photo by Eric Crossan)

WILMINGTON- Wilmington University has appointed the Honorable Jan R. Jurden as the new dean of its School of Law, effective April 1, 2025. Judge Jurden, a respected figure in Delaware’s legal system, brings over 20 years of judicial experience to the role, along with a deep commitment to justice and public service.

Jurden was first appointed to Delaware’s Superior Court in 2001 and made history in 2015 when she became the court’s first female President Judge. She retired from the bench earlier this year after a trailblazing career that earned her widespread respect in the legal community.

“Judge Jurden’s career reflects a genuine commitment to fairness, ethical leadership, and improving access to justice,” said Wilmington University President Dr. LaVerne Harmon.

“She brings wisdom and heart to everything she does, making her an ideal match for Wilmington University’s mission and values. Her leadership will inspire our students and faculty as we continue to build a program that serves the legal profession and our broader community with purpose and compassion.”

Throughout her judicial tenure, Judge Jurden oversaw significant criminal and civil matters and was instrumental in establishing specialized courts to support underserved populations, including veterans and individuals facing mental health challenges. She also played a key leadership role in navigating the court system through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before taking the bench, Jurden practiced law for more than a decade and rose to partner at a leading Delaware law firm. A U.S. Army veteran, she brings both military and legal experience to her new role. Her academic credentials include a Juris Doctor from Penn State Dickinson Law and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Muhlenberg College.

A prominent leader in the legal field, Jurden has earned numerous accolades, such as the Delaware State Bar Association’s Honorable Aida Waserstein Award and the Outstanding Service to the Courts and Bar Award. She was also inducted into the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame. Beyond the courtroom, she has contributed to legal education through teaching positions at various universities, including Wilmington University.

Judge Jurden takes over from Dean Phil Closius, the law school’s inaugural dean, who recently stepped down to focus on family. Closius played a pivotal role in founding the school and leading it through its early years, culminating in its provisional accreditation by the American Bar Association in February 2025—a milestone that enables students to sit for the Bar exam and pursue licensed legal careers.

“I am excited and honored to join the Wilmington University School of Law team and look forward to building on the groundwork laid under the leadership of Dean Closius,” said Judge Jurden.

“I embrace the opportunity to be a part of an innovative, accessible, and inclusive law school whose mission is to provide an excellent, relevant, student-centric legal education. I am eager to get to work.”

Claudia Estrada

Claudia is a Philadelphia-based journalist and reporter passionate about storytelling that informs and engages the community. Claudia, a proud Temple University graduate, has built a career covering impactful stories and creating compelling content across digital and print media platforms. With a strong background in writing, editing, and research, Claudia has worked on various topics, from local news to in-depth features, always striving to deliver meaningful and accurate reporting.