The University of Pittsburgh School of Law proudly announces that it has raised $8 million during the 2024–25 fiscal year, marking one of the most significant fundraising totals in the school’s history.
The fundraising success comes amid a transformational period for Pitt Law, which has set its sights on becoming a top 50 national powerhouse law school. Under the leadership of Dean Jerry Dickinson, the School is rapidly gaining momentum, bolstered by a 55–60% increase in JD applications this past year, one of the largest surges in the nation. Coupled with the School’s first-place finish in the state in bar passage rates in February, high employment outcomes for recent graduates, and a growing presence on local and national media platforms, Pitt Law is capturing the attention of prospective students, faculty, and donors alike.
Dean Jerry Dickinson called the $8 million total a powerful validation of the School’s trajectory:
“This fundraising haul is more than a number. I believe it’s a reflection of our community’s belief in Pitt Law’s vision. Our alumni and friends are stepping up to help us build a dynamic, modern law school that can lead regionally and compete nationally. Their support is helping us strengthen student outcomes, faculty excellence, and long-term sustainability.”
Dean Dickinson has taken a highly energetic and personal approach to community engagement, spending significant time on the road meeting with alumni and members of the practicing bar regionally and nationally across the country. From boardrooms to courthouses to law firms, he has been sharing Pitt Law’s story and building lasting relationships with alumni and friends who believe in the School’s mission and future.
“Pitt Law’s Development team, Ben Ginsberg and Christina Daub, have been instrumental in this effort. Their experience and strategic insight have been invaluable over the past year in cultivating the relationships and building rapport with our valued alumni base.”
Dean Dickinson also says that a renewed and energetic relationship with the University’s Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement Office (PAE) has been instrumental in Pitt Law's recent fundraising successes.
“We are grateful to our alumni and friends whose generosity makes this incredible milestone possible," said Ben Ginsberg, Director of Development. "Their investment in Pitt Law ensures we can continue to advance our mission and make a lasting impact on our students and the legal community.”
The $8 million will improve key areas across the School—enhancing student support, faculty recruitment, increasing endowed chairs and strengthening scholarly engagement, while also enriching academic programming in public interest and business law, expanding tuition scholarships, and investing in long-term institutional strength.