Belmont Law Dean Alberto Gonzales to Step Down

Former U.S. Attorney General leaves legacy of innovation, excellence

Belmont University College of Law Dean Alberto Gonzales will step down, effective May 31, 2026, after 12 years of transformative leadership. Gonzales has served as dean and Doyle Rogers Distinguished Professor of Law since 2014.

Gonzales joined Belmont following a distinguished career in public service, including serving as the 80th Attorney General of the United States, Counsel to the President, Associate Justice of the Texas Supreme Court and Texas Secretary of State. At Belmont, he channeled that experience into building one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative law programs.

"In just over a decade, Dean Gonzales has positioned Belmont's College of Law among the top law schools in the nation," said Belmont University President Dr. Greg Jones. "He has led the College of Law in shaping lawyers of high character who serve with excellence in courtrooms and communities across the country. Dean Gonzales leaves the College of Law nationally recognized and poised for continued growth. We're deeply grateful for his leadership and all he has contributed to Belmont." 

University Provost Dr. David Gregory added, "Dean Gonzales's leadership has been instrumental in establishing Belmont's College of Law as a premier institution known for producing practice-ready lawyers equipped with purpose, integrity and excellence. He has set a standard of excellence that extends far beyond the classroom, mentoring future legal professionals and fostering a culture where students are empowered to lead with character and competence."

Under Gonzales's tenure, Belmont Law has emerged as a leader in legal education, distinguished by exceptional outcomes, innovative programming and a commitment to practice-ready, purpose-driven attorneys. The College has risen to the top half of all U.S. law schools in just over a decade, a trajectory that reflects both strategic vision and unwavering dedication to student success.

Gonzales has cultivated a supportive, collaborative environment that stands in stark contrast to the adversarial culture often associated with legal education. Students and alumni consistently credit this approach with empowering them to excel both on the bar exam and in their careers.

That culture has translated into measurable results. Belmont Law achieved a 96.9% first-time pass rate on the July 2025 Tennessee Bar Exam — the highest in the state — while fielding the largest group of test takers among Tennessee law schools at 97. During Gonzales’ tenure, the College has maintained an average bar passage rate above 90% and an impressive employment rate for new graduates.

“I am grateful to Bob Fisher, Greg Jones and my friends and colleagues at Belmont for their generosity and the many opportunities provided to me and my family,” said Gonzales. “I am proud of my association with Belmont and the success of our fine law school, and I look forward to doing what I can to support the Belmont mission in the future.”

Under Gonzales's leadership, Belmont Law continues to emphasize the importance of preparing students for real-world practice and serving communities in need. The College boasts over 140 field placements and summer externships each year and offers both community clinics and field clinics, including its Healthcare Justice Clinic. Additionally, the College regularly operates pro bono clinics in partnership with organizations including the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services, Tennessee Justice Center, Casa Azafrán and many others. Recent pro bono initiatives include the Housing Conditions Clinic and a groundbreaking reentry simulation in partnership with the Tennessee Prison Outreach Ministry.

Belmont Law's growth under Gonzales has earned national recognition, including ranking among Bloomberg Law's Top 10 Most Innovative Law Schools. The College's student body has grown to more than 360, and its alumni are making their mark across the legal profession. Four alumni now serve as judges and graduates practice as partners at law firms, public servants, advocates and leaders in communities across the country including New York, Washington D.C. and Los Angeles.

As he transitions to the next chapter, Gonzales plans to spend more time with family while continuing to support causes he cares about.

A national search for his replacement is currently underway.