NCCU Names Joseph Karl Grant as New Law School Dean to Lead Next Era of Growth
DURHAM, NC – North Carolina Central University is ushering in a new era of leadership at its School of Law, appointing a seasoned legal scholar and administrator to guide the institution through a pivotal moment in legal education. With changes looming in how future attorneys are trained and tested, university leaders say this appointment is both strategic and forward-looking.
New Leadership at NCCU School of Law
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) has named Joseph Karl Grant as the new dean of its School of Law, effective July 1, 2026.
Grant will report to Dr. Ontario S. Wooden, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, and was selected following a national search.
University officials say his appointment comes at a critical time as law schools nationwide adapt to evolving academic standards and student success benchmarks.
A Focus on Student Success and Bar Passage
Grant is expected to lead efforts to:
- Improve bar passage outcomes
- Strengthen academic programming
- Expand external partnerships
- Increase the school’s visibility across North Carolina and beyond
A key area of focus will be the transition to the NextGen Bar Exam, a new testing model designed to better assess real-world legal skills.
“Joseph Grant is a thoughtful leader…whose background aligns well with the future of our School of Law,” said Dr. Ontario S. Wooden.
“He brings the vision, partnership-building skills, and commitment to student success that this moment requires.”
Extensive Leadership and Academic Experience
Grant brings a strong track record in both legal education and institutional leadership.
Most recently, he served as:
- Interim dean at Capital University School of Law
- Holder of the Josiah H. Blackmore II/Shirley M. Nault Chair in Legal Education
In previous roles, he has overseen:
- Budget management
- Faculty development and promotion
- Strategic planning initiatives
He also serves as a subject matter expert on the National Conference of Bar Examiners’ NextGen Bar initiatives.
Broad Academic and Legal Background
Grant has taught at several respected institutions, including:
- Howard University School of Law
- Florida A&M University College of Law
- West Virginia University College of Law
- Appalachian School of Law
- University of Oregon
His areas of expertise include:
- Business associations
- Property and taxation law
- Financial regulation
- Race and the law
Before entering academia, he practiced corporate, securities, labor, and employment law, and later launched his own private practice.
Strong Academic Credentials
Grant earned:
- A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Brown University
- A Juris Doctor from Duke University School of Law
University leaders say his experience in fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and strategic leadership will be key to advancing the School of Law’s mission.
Building on NCCU’s Legacy
Founded in 1910, NCCU remains one of the nation’s leading historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), known for its commitment to academic excellence and community impact.
The School of Law continues to play a critical role in preparing future attorneys while addressing issues of equity, access, and justice.
Conclusion
As NCCU positions its School of Law for the future, Grant’s leadership signals a renewed focus on innovation, student outcomes, and institutional growth. With changes underway in legal education nationwide, his appointment comes at a moment when strong, strategic leadership will be essential.