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Sarah Zearfoss

Senior Assistant Dean, Michigan Law School

Sarah Zearfoss is the Senior Assistant Dean for Admissions, Financial Aid, and Career Planning at the University of Michigan Law School, a position she has held since 2001. In this role, she oversees all aspects of JD and LLM admissions and supervises the Office of Financial Aid. Zearfoss is recognized for her extensive experience in law school admissions and her commitment to enhancing access to legal education.

Education and Early Career

Zearfoss earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, cum laude, from Bryn Mawr College and subsequently obtained her Juris Doctor magna cum laude from the University of Michigan Law School. During her time in law school, she was the editor-in-chief of the Michigan Journal of International Law and authored a notable article on international women's rights, which earned her the Eric Stein Award. Additionally, she received the Henry M. Bates Memorial Scholarship and was a member of the Order of the Coif, highlighting her academic excellence.

After graduating, Zearfoss clerked for Judge James L. Ryan on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and worked as a litigation associate at Pepper Hamilton LLP in Detroit. She returned to Michigan Law in 1999 as a judicial clerkship advisor before taking on her current role in admissions in 2001.12

Contributions and Initiatives

Zearfoss has been influential in shaping the admissions process at Michigan Law, known for its holistic approach. She has spoken extensively about the importance of considering a wide range of factors beyond academic metrics when evaluating applicants. Her leadership has been particularly significant in navigating challenges related to affirmative action policies following changes in state law.34

In addition to her administrative duties, Zearfoss is actively involved in various committees and initiatives within the legal education community. She serves on the board of trustees for the University of Michigan Law School and chairs the RISE Alliance Advisory Council, among other roles.2 Zearfoss is also a volunteer cooperating attorney for the ACLU, reflecting her commitment to civil rights.2

Public Engagement

Zearfoss frequently engages with prospective students and legal professionals through podcasts and public speaking events. She hosts a podcast titled A2Z with Dean Z, where she discusses various topics related to law school admissions and legal education trends.4

Her extensive experience and proactive approach make her a prominent figure in legal education, particularly regarding admissions strategies and policies that promote diversity and inclusion within law schools.

Highlights

Sarah C. Zearfoss
Sarah C. Zearfoss
Podcast: Dean Z on the Future of Law School Admissions + ...
Jul 3 · aspenideas.org
Sarah Zearfoss
Jun 1 · lsac.org
Board of Trustees Bios | The Law School Admission Council
"Admissions of a Director" by Sarah C. Zearfoss

Related Questions

What are some of the key achievements of Sarah Zearfoss in her role at the University of Michigan Law School?
How has Sarah Zearfoss influenced the admissions process at the University of Michigan Law School?
What initiatives has Sarah Zearfoss led to broaden access and equity for students at the University of Michigan Law School?
Can you provide examples of Sarah Zearfoss's work in financial aid and career planning at the University of Michigan Law School?
What awards or recognitions has Sarah Zearfoss received during her career?
Sarah Zearfoss
Sarah Zearfoss, photo 1
Sarah Zearfoss, photo 2
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Location

Greater Detroit Area