On any given Wednesday afternoon you may walk by St. Thomas Law’s common area, known as the Breezeway, and see the expected – law students studying, heading to class, or speaking to to a professor about legal concepts. But you will also notice something a little different – a group 20-30 people comprised of faculty, staff, and students.
Depending on the day, this group may be doing yoga, dancing salsa, or maybe sweating it out with an invigorating run. All these activities are a part of the new “With the Dean” initiative. The brainchild of Acting Dean Tamara Lawson, the event has quickly become a popular one at the law school.
The importance of work-life balance is stressed at St. Thomas Law even before Orientation when students are made aware of all the resources available to them. Dean Lawson recognized the importance of going beyond the rhetoric and written policies, taking action, and leading by example.
First-year law student Jamie Noicely thinks of these events as weekly reminders to check up on her mental/physical health.
“Even though I am enjoying the law school learning experience, I find myself actually looking forward to Wednesdays.” stated Jamie. “Even if only for a moment, the events force me to stop thinking about rules, exceptions, and all other overwhelming aspects of the 1L year.”
The law school’s Student Bar Association (SBA) has assisted with the planning of the weekly event. This has afforded the Dean the benefit of having the student perspective. “Law school can be a very stressful and intense place for students.” said McRae. “This weekly event has brought a unique calming presence into the Breezeway.”
Students not only interact with their classmates but also with their professors and other law school staff. Professor Jay Silver has been at St. Thomas Law for over 30 years and has participated in every “With The Dean” event. He enjoys it and encourages the entire law school family to join in. “Where else can you burn off stress, exercise, and, at the same time, have the great fun of watching an old faculty member try to touch his toes?” he laughed.
It is rare opportunity for faculty and students to interact outside the formal setting of the classroom or their office. The “With The Dean” activities benefit the health of the students by reducing stress and introducing relaxation techniques.
There are unique stressors associated with being a law student. These weekly events are designed to acknowledge and mitigate that stress. It is the hope that each student will continue to incorporate healthy habits into their lives every day.
