The LSU Law School announced Caprice Roberts will serve as the interim dean of the school until a permanent dean is selected.

Roberts previously served as the Associate Dean of Faculty Development and Research and is a J.Y. Sanders Professor of Law. She joined LSU in the fall of 2022 with over 25 years of legal teaching experience and federal judicial clerkships. She currently serves as Deputy Executive Director of the Southeastern Association of Law Schools.

“Our greatest strength is the community’s collective commitment to the success of LSU Law and all its students,” Roberts said. “I am grateful and honored to serve during this important time for the Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center.”

She received her bachelor’s degree in political theory cum laude from Rhodes College in 1994 and her J.D. magna cum laude from Washington & Lee in 1997.

Before coming to LSU, Roberts was a visiting professor of law at The George Washington University Law School and served as Special Attorney to the United States Senate Judiciary Committee. Her work has national influence and is often cited by the Supreme Court.

Roberts will take over from Alena Allen, who was the dean from 2023 until LSU asked her to step down in August. Allen was the law school’s first Black person and first woman to serve as dean.

Allen initially considered taking legal action against LSU over racial and gender discrimination and violations of LSU policy. However, Allen’s lawyer Allison Jones said both sides have come to an agreement and Allen will remain a full-time faculty member without taking legal action.

The Law School will conduct a national search for a new permanent dean.