Wilmington University announces the retirement of Phillip Closius, the first dean of the Wilmington University School of Law, effective June 30, 2025. After a long and distinguished career in legal practice, teaching, and academic leadership, Dean Closius has decided to step away to spend more time with his family.

The Wilmington University School of Law has quickly built a forward-thinking legal education program. Since welcoming its inaugural class in Fall 2023, the law school has earned provisional ABA accreditation, allowing its students to sit for the Bar exam, gain admission to the Bar, and pursue careers requiring an ABA-accredited degree. Building on this momentum, the school has launched several initiatives to expand its reach. Every student is paired with a Delaware judge or attorney through its mentorship initiative, and outreach efforts have included information sessions and partnerships to promote legal careers. The law school has also developed a robust media presence, an electronic law library, and statewide connections to secure internships. Grounded in student success, access, and affordability, the law program reflects the University’s mission to prepare professionals for meaningful careers.

Dean Closius was instrumental in establishing the Wilmington University School of Law. He shared the University’s philosophy of offering equitable, quality education to students of all backgrounds, and his belief in the power of legal education has left an indelible mark. The University community is grateful for his commitment to academic excellence.