Michelle Benedict Nowlin

Professor Michelle Benedict Nowlin emphasizes the importance of integrating legal frameworks with environmental stewardship to address the pressing challenges of our time. As a Clinical Professor of Law and Co-Director of the Environmental Law and Policy Clinic at Duke University School of Law, she has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of environmental advocates since joining the faculty in 2008. Her role involves supervising students from both the Law School and the Nicholas School of the Environment, providing them with hands-on experience in tackling real-world environmental issues. Professor Nowlin's teaching portfolio includes courses such as Food and Agricultural Law and Policy, as well as Coastal Resilience in the Face of Climate Change. These courses reflect her commitment to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex intersection of law, policy, and environmental science. Her approach to teaching is deeply rooted in experiential learning, encouraging students to engage directly with the communities and ecosystems affected by environmental policies. Before her tenure at Duke, Professor Nowlin served as a senior attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center, where she honed her expertise in environmental litigation and advocacy. Her experience in private practice in Washington, D.C., further enriched her understanding of the legal mechanisms available to protect natural resources and public health. This diverse background informs her work at Duke, where she continues to advocate for sustainable and equitable environmental policies. Throughout her career, Professor Nowlin has been dedicated to the protection of natural resources and the promotion of public health through the lens of environmental law. Her research interests, which include Environmental Law and Climate Change, underscore her commitment to addressing the global challenges posed by environmental degradation and climate disruption. She is particularly focused on developing legal strategies that enhance resilience and sustainability in vulnerable communities. Professor Nowlin's contributions to the field of environmental law extend beyond academia. She is actively involved in various initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration between legal professionals, policymakers, and environmental scientists. Her work has been recognized for its impact on both local and national levels, highlighting her role as a leader in the field of environmental law and policy. In addition to her academic and professional achievements, Professor Nowlin is known for her passion for mentoring students and young professionals. She believes in empowering the next generation of environmental leaders to think critically and act decisively in the face of environmental challenges. Her dedication to education and advocacy continues to inspire those around her, making her a respected figure in the legal and environmental communities.