Joseph Richard Hurt, dean of the Florida Coastal School of Law since 2001, will lead the Barry University School of Law as it seeks to gain full accreditation from the American Bar Association.

Hurt, 49, will take the reigns at the Barry University School of Law on July 1. The School of Law, which is located in Orlando, Florida, received provisional accreditation from the American Bar Association in February 2002.

A native of Laurel, Miss., Hurt holds a master of laws degree from Yale University and a jurist doctorate degree from Baylor University in Texas. At Baylor he served as associate dean from 1984 to 1988 and again from 1990 to 1991. For seven years, starting in 1991, he served as dean of the Mississippi College School of Law.

“Richard is truly qualified for this position,” said Sister Peggy Albert, executive vice president. “First and foremost he is in tune with our Mission and is most supportive of a value-based legal education. Secondly, he has the ability to lead us in the process toward full accreditation by the American Bar Association.”

Former Dean Stanley Talcott, who led the 3-year-long effort for provisional accreditation, will remain as member of the faculty following his return from sabbatical in July of 2004.

“Barry University is forever grateful for the great effort on the part of Dean Talcott,” said Albert. “His perseverance and dedication were instrumental in winning the fight for provisional accreditation.”