Usha R. Rodrigues, University Professor and M.E. Kilpatrick Chair of Corporate Finance and Securities Law, began her tenure as the 14th dean of the University of Georgia School of Law on January 1, 2025. She recently sat down to answer a few questions and share her thoughts about her new role and her goals as the school’s newest leader.

Rodrigues talking with law students in the Sanders Boardroom during 2023. Photo by Dennis McDaniel.

What do you think sets the UGA School of Law apart from other institutions?

Our students genuinely love being here. Sometimes they feel more loyal to our law school than to their undergraduate institution, and that is something few law schools can say. That enjoyment during their three short years here translates into lasting loyalty to our law school. It makes the UGA Law network unrivaled in its strength.

What is the primary objective you would like for the School of Law to achieve under your leadership?

I believe our law school can differentiate itself by producing well-rounded lawyers – graduates who have the intellectual chops to do the work, of course, but who also can understand a client’s needs, work together as a team, and serve as leaders in the profession and in the community.

During the 2011–12 academic year, Rodrigues hosted then-AFLAC general counsel Joey Loudermilk (J.D.’78) as a guest speaker in her corporations class.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I am a listener. I believe in listening to different viewpoints, weighing the competing merits, and then acting decisively.

What advice do you have for current students?

I have told many law students that my best advice is carved on the Temple of Apollo: “Know Thyself” (Bonus that we are in Athens and I am quoting the ancient Greeks!). Law school is about learning about yourself. Do you study better in the library? Or on your own? Do you do your best work in the morning? Or late at night? Do you prefer long projects or shorter, more concrete tasks? There are a lot of unhappy lawyers out there. Serious reflection about what fulfills you is an investment that lays the foundation for a life filled with meaning.

In 2018, Rodrigues helped moderate a conversation with 1986 alumna Sally Yates, who had previously served as acting U.S. attorney general and U.S. deputy attorney general, as part of the 36th Edith House Lecture. Photo by UGA Marketing and Communications.

What is the one thing you want alumni to know about you and/or the law school?

Alumni, there is an opportunity for everyone to be involved. Time, talent or financial support – whatever it is you are willing to offer. Georgia Law needs you!

What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I did some VERY amateur improv years ago, and it helped me in public speaking and teaching in ways I did not expect. Preparation is essential for the law, but there is also a certain discipline in being present, in focusing on the moment. That requires being open to unanticipated events and trusting in your preparation but also being willing to ad lib.

What is on your reading list these days?

The Libby app (available if you belong to a public library) has transformed my reading habits. Now if I read a book review or reference that intrigues me, I just tag the book on the Libby app and then put it in my hold queue when there’s room. I have 72 books in my queue right now, and another 10 on hold.

Rodrigues at the 124th Sibley Lecture with UGA President Jere Morehead (J.D.’80) (left), former U.S. Deputy Attorney General and Sibley Professor Larry Thompson (center) who presented the lecture, former Dean David Shipley and former Dean Rebecca Hanner White.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Only decide what you need to decide. Often people project forward in time and talk themselves out of opportunities they shouldn’t. For example, say the question is, should I apply for this job in San Francisco? A student might think, well, if I get it, I might not like the city or decide it’s too far from home or I might be lonely, so I shouldn’t apply. But the only question to decide now is, “Should I apply for this job?” The question right now isn’t if you would take the job – the question right now is, is it worth applying so you have the chance to evaluate it further.

Earlier this year, Rodrigues received the Choi Mentor Award from the Georgia Asian Pacific American Bar Association during their Lunar New Year celebration. The award recognizes those who demonstrate a remarkable commitment to mentoring the next generation. It was presented to her by former student Shreya Desai (J.D.’18). Photo courtesy of GAPABA.

Which individuals in your life have influenced you the most?

My family – my parents, who created a new life for themselves and for me in a foreign country, taught me to work hard and to seek a career I love. My husband, who provides me a sanctuary, a sounding board, and a sense of perspective. And my children (ages 12, 14 and 17), who keep me grounded.

How do you handle the stress of your work?

I am a runner – not fast, but faithful. Always outside, and always with a canine companion or two. It’s as much a mental stress release for me as it is a physical one.