Sophie Rohnke appointed Vice President for Legal Affairs and Government Relations, General Counsel, and Secretary to the Board of Trustees
Accomplished attorney and trusted advisor will join SMU August 1.
Sophie Rohnke has been appointed Vice President for Legal Affairs and Government Relations, General Counsel, and Secretary to the Board of Trustees and will join SMU on August 1.
A partner in the Dallas office of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, Rohnke has advised organizations facing complex legal, regulatory, governance and risk management challenges throughout her career. She is widely respected for her thoughtful counsel, sound judgment, integrity and collaborative leadership. Her practice has included guiding clients through high-stakes matters requiring careful analysis, strategic perspective and practical problem-solving. Having served as outside counsel to SMU, she brings a strong understanding of the University, its mission, and the opportunities and challenges facing higher education.
“One of our top priorities is a relentless focus on attracting more exceptionally talented faculty, staff and students to SMU, and Sophie is a great example of what we are hoping to accomplish,” President Jay C. Hartzell said. “Her intelligence, principled leadership, breadth of expertise, connection with our mission, and experience with our institution make her an ideal choice to join our leadership team. We’re excited to have her join us as we advance our strategic priorities across academics, research, athletics, exceptional experiences and community engagement.”
In her role, Rohnke will serve as the University’s chief legal officer, providing counsel to the president, Board of Trustees and University leadership on legal, governance, regulatory and public policy matters. She will also oversee government relations and support the University’s efforts to advance its mission through effective engagement with policymakers and external stakeholders.
“I am thrilled to join SMU at such an exciting time in the University’s history,” Rohnke said. “From my earliest conversations with SMU’s leadership, it was clear that the University’s vision, strong sense of community, and commitment to excellence and impact set it apart. I look forward to partnering with President Hartzell, the Board of Trustees, and colleagues across the University to support SMU’s mission and advance its next chapter of growth and innovation.”
Rohnke holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Jurisprudence from the University of Oxford and a Master of Laws degree from Harvard Law School. She is admitted to practice in Texas, New York, and England and Wales.
Rohnke succeeds Paul Ward, who announced his retirement earlier this year after years of distinguished service to the University. Ward will continue supporting SMU in an advisory capacity through the end of the calendar year to help ensure a smooth leadership transition.