Jace Gatewood

Jace C. Gatewood is an accomplished legal educator and practitioner currently serving as the Dean and CEO of Atlanta's John Marshall Law School (AJMLS). He has had a significant impact on the institution since taking on the role in January 2020, being the first African American to hold this position. His tenure has been marked by resilience and innovation, especially during challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the national discourse on racial justice following the murder of George Floyd.14

Education and Early Career

Gatewood earned both his Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) and Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Georgetown University, where he studied English and Law, respectively. Prior to his role at AJMLS, he practiced law for over 18 years, focusing on commercial, corporate, and real estate transactions. His legal career includes positions as a partner at Powell Goldstein LLP and Troutman Sanders LLP, as well as serving as Assistant General Counsel for the Atlanta Housing Authority.23

Academic Contributions

Gatewood joined AJMLS in 2008 as an Associate Professor of Law and has taught various subjects, including Business Organizations, Real Property, and Wills, Trusts, and Estates. He was appointed Associate Dean of Graduate Programs in 2016 and later became Associate Dean of Academic Programs in 2017 before ascending to the deanship.34

Leadership Achievements

During his deanship, Gatewood has overseen several key initiatives:

• Transitioning AJMLS to a non-profit entity.
• Enhancing fundraising efforts through the establishment of the John Marshall Law School Foundation.
• Leading infrastructure improvements including the construction of a new campus with modern facilities.
• Implementing remote learning technologies during the pandemic to maintain educational continuity.45

Gatewood is also noted for his scholarly work, having published articles addressing issues such as search and seizure laws under the Fourth Amendment.3

Future Plans

In September 2024, it was announced that Gatewood would step down from his role as Dean at the end of the academic year but will return to teaching at AJMLS after a sabbatical in 2026. His leadership has been praised for navigating the school through significant challenges while fostering an inclusive community.456

Overall, Jace C. Gatewood's contributions to legal education and his leadership at Atlanta's John Marshall Law School have left a lasting impact on both the institution and its community.