Dean of Students Lisa Ferreira Honored with NALSAP GEM Award
SAN DIEGO (June 26, 2025) – California Western School of Law (CWSL) is proud to announce that Dean of Students Lisa Ferreira has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the National Association of Law Student Affairs Professionals (NALSAP) GEM Award. This honor is presented annually to a NALSAP individual or institutional member who “goes the extra mile” through outstanding mentorship, guidance, and service to colleagues in the law student affairs community.
Dean Ferreira joined CWSL in 2021, bringing over 30 years of experience in legal education, with a background spanning both Academic Affairs and Student Affairs. At CWSL, she oversees both the Student Affairs Office and the Career & Professional Development Office, with a strong emphasis on student experience, wellness, and holistic development. Dean Ferreira is also Co-Chair of CWSL’s Equity, Justice and Engagement Committee.
A dynamic leader and presenter, Dean Ferreira has shared her expertise at regional and national conferences on topics including accommodations, student affairs best practices, and supporting law students through counseling. She has served as Co-Chair of the NALSAP Mentorship Committee, exemplifying the spirit of the GEM Award through her tireless support of emerging professionals in the field. She was previously on NALSAP’s Conference Committee, in 2016 and 2023, and currently serves as the Secretary of the Board. Dean Ferreira also served on the Association of American Law School’s Student Services Section from 2012 to 2020, chairing the committee in 2015–2016.
About NALSAP
The National Association of Law Student Affairs Professionals is the professional home for student affairs professionals who work in the law school environment. NALSAP supports its members by advocating on behalf of the profession, providing professional development opportunities (including an annual conference), offering resources on best practices, and fostering a community that enhances the personal and professional success of our members.
About California Western School of Law
For 100 years, California Western School of Law (CWSL) has trained practice-ready lawyers and thoughtful advocates for justice. As the first and longest-running law school in San Diego, CWSL remains committed to providing students with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and real-world experience to thrive in a rapidly evolving legal landscape. CWSL enrolls a student body representative of our diverse society, amplifying access to opportunities for social and economic mobility. Tailored programming allows students to focus on specific areas of interest, and distinguished faculty are dedicated to student growth and scholarship on critical social issues. The law school emphasizes practical, hands-on training through clinics, internships, externships, and pro bono service. CWSL is committed to excellence in education, nurturing compassionate legal professionals who use the law effectively and creatively to solve complex human and societal problems. For more information, visit www.CWSL.edu.