Shoba Wadhia

Shoba Sivaprasad Wadhia is a prominent figure in immigration law and policy. She is the Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Samuel Weiss Faculty Scholar, and Clinical Professor of Law at Penn State Law.15 With over 20 years of experience in immigration, Wadhia is a nationally respected scholar, author, and attorney.1

Academic Career and Achievements

Wadhia founded and directs the Center for Immigrants' Rights Clinic (CIRC) at Penn State Law, which has gained national recognition for its impact.1 She teaches courses on immigration, asylum, refugee law, and has helped develop a course on Law & (In)equity.1

Her research focuses on prosecutorial discretion in immigration law and the intersections of race, national security, and immigration.1 Wadhia has authored several books, including "Banned: Immigration Enforcement in the Time of Trump" and co-authored "Immigration and Nationality Law: Problems and Strategies".1

Professional Recognition

Wadhia has received numerous awards for her work, including:

• The 2023 W. LaMarr Kopp International Faculty Achievement Award2
• The 2019 Elmer Friend Excellence in Teaching Award by the American Immigration Lawyers Association1
• The 2020 Rosemary Schraer Mentoring Award1
• Named a Fastcase 50 Awardee in 20201

She was elected to the American Law Institute in 2021.1

Government and Policy Work

Recently, Wadhia has taken on a role with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security346, further expanding her influence in immigration policy and practice.