Dean Brown is recognized as one of the Top 50 Legal Innovators in Academia

Katie Brown, Charleston School of Law Associate Dean for Information Resources, has been selected by The National Law Review as one of the Top 50 Legal Innovators in Academia for 2026.

The National Law Review recognizes educators, administrators, researchers, and academic leaders who are shaping the future of legal education.

“We are so proud of the work Dean Brown is doing on behalf of Charleston Law to support legal education,” said Dean Jon Marcantel. “The National Law Review honor is exceptional, recognizing she is impacting faculty and students nationwide.”

The honor highlights individuals who are developing innovative programs, conducting impactful research, modernizing curricula, launching new centers and initiatives, and preparing students to meet the evolving demands of the legal profession.

Dean Brown’s work focuses on how legal education teaches, measures, and applies technology. Her recent scholarship examines who is responsible for building technology competence in ABA-accredited law schools and how those expectations translate into curriculum and training.

“I am honored to be named one of the Top 50 Legal Innovators in Academia for 2026,” said Dean Brown. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it highlights the work I have had the privilege to pursue alongside colleagues in the legal technology space who have inspired me and helped shape my thinking over the years. I am particularly humbled to join the Innovative Leaders listed whose pioneering contributions continue to influence my empirical research and scholarship today. Innovation in legal education depends on shared ideas, collective effort, and a supportive environment that allows for risk-taking. I am truly grateful to Charleston School of Law, my mentors, colleagues, and peers for their support.”

Selection Methodology

A total of 76 eligible nominees advanced to committee review. Reviewers received biographical information, the stated basis for nomination, and supporting links. Each nominee was evaluated on three criteria, each using a five-point scale:

• Innovation: whether the nominee introduced something new or meaningfully advanced legal education.
• Impact: the measurable or demonstrated effect of the nominee’s work on students, institutions, the legal profession, or society.
• Overall Recommendation: whether, considering the full nomination, the nominee should be recognized among the Top 50 Legal Innovators in Academia.

The aggregate results produced the preliminary selection. The committee reviewed the results for conflicts, incomplete evaluations, and ties before finalizing the 50 honorees.