Bruce Ottley will become DePaul College of Law interim dean in June.Bruce Ottley has been appointed interim dean of the College of Law at DePaul University, effective June 1. Ottley is a professor in the law school, where he teaches courses in civil procedure, torts, and remedies and products liability. He previously served as associate dean in the college for a total of nine years, most recently from 1996 to 2000, and as acting dean for a brief period in 2006.
In addition to teaching, Ottley is director of the DePaul University-University College Dublin Cooperative Program and co-director of the International Aviation Law Institute. An esteemed expert on tort law, Ottley also conducts seminars for Illinois judges through the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts.
Prior to joining DePaul’s College of Law in 1978, Ottley practiced law in Papua New Guinea, where he served for a year as a court magistrate of the National Capitol District Court. He also taught law for five years at the University of Papua New Guinea. Ottley is a fellow of the American Anthropological Association and travels to the South Pacific islands, Australia and New Zealand to conduct research.
In addition to journal articles, Ottley is co-author of several books, including, “Understanding Products Liability Law,” “Illinois Tort Law” and “Arson Law and Prosecution.”
He has a Master of Laws from Columbia University, a Juris Doctor and master’s degree from the University of Iowa, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
“Bruce’s distinguished career as a lawyer, professor and university administrator make him well suited to serve as interim dean for DePaul’s College of Law,” said Patricia O’Donoghue, interim provost. “His colleagues demonstrate great administration and respect for his skills as a leader and scholar. I am confident he will successfully guide the college during this time of transition."
DePaul plans to launch a national search for a permanent dean soon. See more at DePaul's Newsroom.