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Marquette University Law School Welcomes a New Leader in Sports Law
In a significant step for both Marquette University and the world of sports law, Aaron Hernandez has been appointed as the director of the National Sports Law Institute and associate professor of practice at Marquette University Law School. Currently serving at Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, Hernandez is set to return to his alma mater this August, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a dynamic vision for the future of the sports law program.
Why This Appointment Matters to Sports Law Education
The National Sports Law Institute, founded in 1989, has been instrumental in shaping the education of law students interested in the complex legal, ethical, and business issues surrounding sports. Hernandez has acknowledged the profound impact that Marquette Law School has had on his career, stating, "I am, and always have been, a Marquette man... This philosophy aligns with my personal values, including how sports shape our country." His return represents both a full-circle moment and a strategic expansion of the institute’s offerings.
Dean Joseph D. Kearney emphasized how Hernandez's return enriches Marquette’s engagement with the broader sports community, geared towards initiatives that include conferences and ongoing legal education. His innovative leadership is expected to prepare students for the legal intricacies of both amateur and professional sports.
A Legacy of Engagement
Hernandez’s previous role as executive director of the Allan “Bud” Selig Sports Law and Business Program at ASU highlights his commitment to stakeholder engagement within the sports sector. At the NCAA, he specialized in compliance and investigative functions related to college sports, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field. His experience spans collaborating with coaches, athletic directors, and compliance officers—expertise that will undoubtedly benefit Marquette's Sports Law Program.
In addition to his administrative and teaching roles, Hernandez’s extensive publication record in law journals displays his deeper understanding of sports law and its evolving landscapes. As he leads the National Sports Law Institute into its 40th anniversary, his vision will be pivotal in creating immersive educational experiences that resonate not just within the walls of Marquette, but across the nation.
Marquette Law’s Comprehensive Sports Law Offerings
The Sports Law Program at Marquette is recognized for providing one of the nation's most extensive collections of courses and practical experiences in sports law. Attracting students nationwide and from abroad, the program features opportunities such as internships with leading sports organizations and participation in high-stakes events like the Marquette Sports Law Review and National Sports Law Moot Court team.
In a landscape marked by ongoing discussions around NIL laws and NCAA reforms, Hernandez’s leadership promises to deepen the curriculum and offer students a rigorous theoretical and practical education. By fostering connections and dialogue with industry leaders, the institute aims to prepare students to navigate the ever-evolving challenges in the field.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Students
As Hernandez steps into his new role at Marquette, the anticipated changes could create exciting new pathways for students. With his vision, the National Sports Law Institute may evolve into a central hub for policy discussions on current trends affecting sports law, making it an extraordinary resource for current and future legal professionals in sports.
As Hernandez stated, “The gold standard for sports law in the United States is the National Sports Law Institute.” His commitment to mentorship and community engagement will not only enrich Marquette Law students' academic journey but also positively impact the sports industry as it grapples with contemporary issues.
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