| We’re writing to share some big news from the Center for Animal Law Studies (CALS). After nearly five decades of trailblazing advocacy and scholarship, including the last seven years spent inspiring our community as a Professor of Practice, Joyce Tischler has announced her retirement, effective June 30, 2026.
Affectionately known as the “Mother of Animal Law,” Joyce has played a pivotal role in transforming a virtually nonexistent field into a global movement. From co-founding the Animal Legal Defense Fund in 1979 to guiding the creation of CALS in 2008, her vision made animal law what it is today. At Lewis & Clark Law School, she brought her wealth of legal knowledge and first-hand experience into the classroom, developing cornerstone courses and mentoring countless aspiring advocates.
While Joyce prepares to spend well-deserved time with her family and her beloved entourage of rescued animal companions, her vision, steady presence, joyful personality, and deep empathy leave a mark on us all. We will be celebrating Joyce and her career this fall, with more details to follow.
To learn more about Joyce’s incredible career and lasting impact, read the full retirement announcement. You can share a personal note of appreciation via our Google Form (we’ll share these with Joyce) or make a donation to CALS in Joyce’s honor to support the next generation of animal law advocates. |
