Andrew
Silverman
Nominated by Michele Schulze
Andy Silverman, a distinguished faculty member of the University of Arizona's James E. Rogers College of Law, and a former executive director of Phoenix’s Community Legal Services, Inc. (1976-1978), has made significant contributions to access to justice through a multifaceted approach of education, advocacy and direct service.
The Joseph M. Livermore Professor Emeritus of Law and Director of Clinical Programs since 1978, he’s been instrumental in shaping the minds of future legal professionals, emphasizing the importance of justice for all. His work with the Arizona Capital Representation Project and the William E. Morris Institute for Justice reflects his commitment to legal representation and reform, particularly in the areas of capital punishment and immigration rights.
Involvement with the Justice Project since its inception showcases his dedication to correcting wrongful convictions and addressing manifest injustices. By recruiting, supervising and mentoring law students, he has fostered new generations of lawyers equipped to tackle the complexities of post-conviction litigation. His leadership roles in various organizations, including the Florence Immigrant and Refugee Rights Project and the Coalition of Arizonans to Abolish the Death Penalty, further demonstrate his active engagement in critical legal issues affecting marginalized communities.
Professor Silverman's contributions extend beyond the courtroom and classroom. He joined the Southern Arizona Legal Aid, Inc. Board of Directors in 1978-2015; 2017-present (President 1983-1988); served on the University of Arizona's Senate Task Force for Monitoring Labor & Human Rights Issues, advocating for ethical practices and human rights. His tenure on the Gender Bias Task Force of the Arizona State Bar highlights his efforts to address systemic inequalities within the legal profession itself.
In recognition of his extensive work, Professor Silverman has received accolades like the Arizona Bar Foundation’s John J. Bouma Philanthropy Award, honoring individuals who demonstrate a profound commitment to supporting justice in Arizona. This award is a testament to his lifelong dedication to enhancing access to justice and his belief in the power of law as a tool for societal change.
Through his academic contributions, community service, and unwavering advocacy, Andy Silverman has left an indelible mark on the legal landscape of Arizona and beyond. His efforts have not only provided immediate assistance to those in need but have also laid the groundwork for systemic improvements in the pursuit of equitable justice for all.
Some of his public service includes serving in leadership roles for the Arizona Capital Representation Project, the William E. Morris Institute for Justice, Sanctity of Life: People Against Executions, Asylum Project of Southern Arizona, Coalition of Arizonans to Abolish the Death Penalty, Florence Immigrant and Refugee Rights Project, University of Arizona Senate Task Force for Monitoring Labor & Human Rights Issues, Southern Arizona People's Law Center, Arizona State Bar Committee on Minorities and Women in the Law, Migrant Legal Action Program and Legal Services Corporation and Arizona Center for Law in the Public Interest."
