In 1996, Professor Bernard Hibbitts launched JURIST, and its influence has been profound. This project has changed how legal news is shared and has reached countless individuals worldwide.
What started as a simple online collection of legal research transformed into a dynamic platform under Professor Hibbitts’ guidance. He brought law students into the spotlight as reporters and editors, turning JURIST into a valuable educational experience. This innovative approach has not only educated future legal professionals but also made legal news more accessible to all. As he prepares for retirement in December 2024, his vision continues through JURIST’s dedication to connecting legal scholars with the public.
The digital festschrift, a collection of writings honoring Professor Hibbitts, will grow steadily with regular contributions published a few times each week. All entries will be archived on JURIST’s website, creating a lasting tribute to his contributions to legal journalism and education. This is just the fourth entry in this collection.
Professor Hibbitts leaves a significant legacy at the University of Pittsburgh. He has always been a humble, approachable colleague, yet his impact resonates deeply with everyone who has worked with him. He possesses an incredible wealth of knowledge and a talent for making complex legal history exciting for students. Many remember his engaging lessons, especially his discussions about the evolution of common law in the United States.
What set Bernie apart was his forward-thinking approach. He published an article called Last Writes? Reassessing the Law Review in the Age of Cyberspace in 1996, making him the first law professor to share a work online before it appeared in a law review. This groundbreaking decision paved the way for many contemporary legal publications. He believed this new process would give writers more control, spark creativity, and encourage better dialogue among legal thinkers. Surprisingly, it did not overshadow traditional law reviews; instead, it pushed them to evolve further.
JURIST, the legal news platform he created, serves as a testament to his dedication to students. He always prioritized their education, careers, and lives outside of the classroom. Bernie’s commitment to mentoring went beyond standard practices, as he often supported students from conflict zones, helping them seek safety and advance their legal careers.
Bernie’s work is rooted in a genuine desire to better the lives of those he teaches. For him, JURIST isn’t just a news source; it’s a foundation for nurturing a new generation of legal leaders. Through their involvement, students gain a richer understanding of the world, paving the way for meaningful contributions to the rule of law. He recognized that legal education could change lives and impact the global community.
As a legal historian, Bernie Hibbitts has shaped the future of legal education, scholarship, and reporting. Most importantly, he has positively influenced the lives of countless individuals. His legacy ensures that the people he has touched will continue to make a difference in the world.
Professor Ronald A. Brand is the Chancellor Mark A. Nordenberg University Professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, where JURIST was founded nearly 30 years ago. He has held leadership roles in various programs and has taught internationally, with his work regularly referenced worldwide.
Opinions expressed in JURIST Commentary are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JURIST’s editors, staff, donors, or the University of Pittsburgh.
