Jason P. Nance, an education policy and law scholar who studies inequalities in public education, has been named the Judge James Noel Dean of SMU’s Dedman School of Law. Nance comes from the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law, where he served as associate dean for research and faculty development and was a professor of law. He will begin his new role at SMU on August 10.

“I am thrilled and honored to be named the incoming dean of the Dedman School of Law,” Nance said in a press release. “Dedman Law is an impressive law school with a talented faculty and staff, supported by a committed, energetic alumni base. It is well positioned to rise to even greater heights. I look forward to working collaboratively with students, faculty, staff and alumni to help Dedman Law reach its full potential in the coming years.”