At Texas Tech University School of Law, our faculty are known for being more than
just outstanding teachers and scholars—they are approachable mentors, trusted advisors,
and champions of student success. Whether leading a class discussion, coaching an
advocacy team, or offering one-on-one guidance, our professors are deeply committed
to helping students grow, thrive, and achieve their goals. Their passion for teaching,
innovation, research and service creates an environment where students feel supported
both personally and professionally.
Given the extraordinary dedication of our faculty, it’s no surprise that so many have
been recognized this year with prestigious university awards. These honors highlight
the remarkable impact our professors are making not only at Texas Tech, but in the
legal profession and beyond.
Brandon Beck '12
Assistant Professor of Law
Award: Texas Tech Alumni Association New Faculty Award
Professor Brandon Beck was honored with the Texas Tech Alumni Association New Faculty
Award, recognizing early-career faculty who are already making a powerful impact.
In just a few short years, Professor Beck has distinguished himself as a gifted teacher
and mentor. He has created and transformed upper-division courses—including a first-of-its-kind
Second Amendment course and a seminar on constitutional issues in federal criminal
law—drawing on his own experience litigating before the U.S. Supreme Court. His real-world
approach makes the classroom come alive, and his coaching of moot court teams and
mentorship of journal students have made him a trusted advisor to many.
Dustin Benham
Charles P. Bubany Endowed Professor of Law
Award: Spencer A. Wells Award for Creativity in Teaching
Professor Dustin Benham received the Spencer A. Wells Award for Creativity in Teaching,
celebrating his innovative and engaging teaching methods. Known for his technology-driven,
team-based classroom style, Professor Benham’s students don’t just study law—they
practice it. His groundbreaking courses, including the tethered Evidence–Trial Advocacy
program and a full-semester Deposition course, are among the most popular at the Law
School. Professor Benham’s creative spirit and dedication to helping students thrive
have earned him praise both on campus and across the country.
Geoffrey S. Corn
George R. Killam Jr. Chair of Criminal Law
Director, Center for Military Law & Policy
Award: Global Engagement Award
Professor Geoff Corn was recognized with the Global Engagement Award for his extraordinary
contributions to international understanding. A leading voice in military and humanitarian
law, Professor Corn has advised NATO leaders, contributed to proceedings at the International
Criminal Court, and taught around the globe. He brings his expertise home to Texas
Tech, mentoring students in international advocacy competitions and organizing high-profile
symposia on global legal issues. His work is a shining example of how Texas Tech law
faculty are making an impact worldwide.
DeLeith Gossett
Jack F Maddox Professor of Law
Award: President’s Excellence in Teaching Award
Professor DeLeith Gossett received the President’s Excellence in Teaching Award in
recognition of her dynamic and student-centered approach to legal education. A longtime
leader in the Legal Practice program, Professor Gossett draws on her experience as
a federal judicial clerk to teach vital lawyering skills to first-year students. She
also engages students in ethical problem-solving through her online Professional Responsibility
course and has led study abroad programs in Spain, Mexico, and Lithuania. No matter
the setting, her passion for teaching and commitment to student success shine through.
Amy Hardberger
George W. McCleskey Professor of Water Law
Director, Center for Water Law and Policy
Award: Barnie E. Rushing, Jr. Distinguished Research Award
Professor Amy Hardberger was awarded the Barnie E. Rushing, Jr. Distinguished Research
Award for her groundbreaking scholarship in water law and environmental policy. Her
work spans academic research, public policy, and international collaboration—including
a recent Fulbright Specialist grant to advance sustainable water practices in Tanzania.
As Director of the Center for Water Law and Policy and a co-principal investigator
on a major NSF-funded grant, Professor Hardberger’s scholarship doesn't just inform
the academy—it shapes the future of water law and environmental sustainability.
Brie D. Sherwin
Glenn D. West Endowed Research Professor of Law
Dean’s Scholar and Director for Interdisciplinary Research
Award: Faculty Distinguished Leadership Award
Professor Brie Sherwin was honored with the Faculty Distinguished Leadership Award
for her exceptional service across Texas Tech. A leader in both the law school and
the wider university, she has launched programs like the Public Service Interest Auction,
the LawSuits student support program, and the Interdisciplinary Research Reception. She also builds
cross-campus connections through her work with the Honors College, the Graduate School,
the TTU Climate Center, and TTUHSC. Professor Sherwin’s leadership bridges disciplines,
builds community partnerships, and inspires students and colleagues alike.
Robert T. Sherwin
Champions in Advocacy Endowed Professor of Law
Director, Advocacy Programs
Award: Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Teaching Award
Professor Rob Sherwin was recognized with the Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Teaching
Award, the university’s highest honor for teaching excellence. Known for his dynamic
and engaging classroom style, Professor Sherwin brings creativity and real-world relevance
to every course he teaches. Whether using Broadway musicals to explore entertainment
law principles or high-profile trials to illustrate courtroom strategy, he makes complex
concepts accessible, memorable, and fun. His passion for teaching shines through in
every class. As Director of Texas Tech Law’s nationally top-ranked Advocacy Program,
Professor Sherwin coaches and mentors students to success in competitions across the
country. His dedication to education—both inside the classroom and beyond—helps students
sharpen their skills and achieve success.
Law School Recognition – Provost’s Institutional Effectiveness Excellence Award
Thanks to the leadership of Associate Dean Wendy A. Humphrey, Texas Tech Law was named a 2025 recipient of the Provost’s Institutional Effectiveness Excellence Award. Under her guidance, the law school has built assessment practices that are truly
driving excellence—adopting six program-wide Student Learning Outcomes, strengthening
academic programs, and launching innovative initiatives to better prepare students
for the evolving demands of the legal profession. This award recognizes not just the
school’s commitment to continuous improvement, but also the extraordinary faculty
engagement and forward-thinking approach that define Texas Tech Law.
These achievements showcase the extraordinary talent, passion, and dedication of the
Texas Tech Law faculty. But more than that, they reflect something deeper—something
our alumni know well. From the earliest graduating classes to today, this law school
has always been defined by faculty who go the extra mile for their students. Professors
who take the time, who open their doors, who teach not just the law, but how to thrive
within it.
The faculty recognized this year continue that proud tradition. Their leadership inside
and outside the classroom is shaping the next generation of lawyers and carrying forward
the legacy of excellence and student support that Texas Tech Law is known for.
We are proud to celebrate their success—and grateful for the lasting difference they’re
making in the lives of our students and in the future of our profession.