Stephen Rispoli, J.D.

Stephen Rispoli earned his political science degree from Baylor University in 2009, his J.D. from Baylor Law in 2012, and his LL.M. from the University of Texas School of Law in 2018. Stephen worked as a District Director for former Texas State Representative Carol Kent. He describes his time working in the 81st Legislature as the experience that fostered his interest in the law. During law school, Stephen was active in student organizations, serving as the Executive President for the Student Bar Association, and Justice for the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. One of his most rewarding experiences in law school was interning for Federal Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Manske. While working for Judge Manske, Stephen learned a great deal about Federal procedure and the judicial process.

Service has always been an integral part of the law school’s mission and one to which Stephen has been dedicated since starting his career at Baylor Law. Stephen worked with Professor Bridget Fuselier on providing legal services to veterans and helped organize and expand the Veterans Clinic. The Veterans Clinic provides monthly clinics along with a dedicated estate planning clinic every year. As the Assistant Dean of Pro Bono Programs, Stephen is also actively involved in all other areas of pro bono service at Baylor Law. He strives to learn more about the access to justice gap our nation is facing, and what legal education can do to help.

Another integral part of Baylor Law’s mission is to prepare all students to be competent, ethical lawyers as soon as they cross the graduation stage and pass the bar. As Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, Stephen is always seeking new ways to accomplish this mission and help law students succeed at Baylor Law. His goal is for the law school to help students develop lifelong habits that help address the stresses of the practice of law. In addition, he provides guidance and support to student organizations, working with them to achieve their goals and enhance the law school experience.

Stephen assisted Professor Jeremy Counseller in developing the St Andrews Academy of the Advocate, and continues to be involved as co-director of the program. Every summer, the Academy brings law students from around the country to St. Andrews, Scotland and immerses them in the art of trial and appellate advocacy.