Ana M. Novoa

ph: (210) 431-5706
email: anovoa@stmarytx.edu

Associate Dean for Clinical Education and Public Interest and Professor of Law
B.B.A., 1979, University of Texas, San Antonio
J.D., 1982, University of Texas

Highlights:

Ana M. Novoa is a tenured Professor of Law at St. Mary's University School of Law, being the first Mexican American woman to receive tenure at that University. She teaches civil clinic, family law, and critical jurisprudence. Professor Novoa graduated with honors from the University of Texas School of Law in 1982 and was in private practice in San Antonio prior to joining St. Mary's.

Professor Novoa has participated in clinical education for 12 years, and in administration of the Clinical Program at St. Mary's Law School for the prior 6 years. She manages all aspects of the clinic, supervises the faculty and staff, and is responsible for substantial grants received by the Clinic. Under her supervision the Clinical Program established a civil legal assistance program (BICLA) for immigrant and other victims of domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, trafficking in the human trade, and other crimes.

Professor Novoa's teaching and writing interests include: family law, the history of family law, family and children, jurisprudence with special emphasis on feminist and Latina issues.

Professor Novoa's profound spirituality and deep commitment to Social Justice is evident from her life-long advocacy for the poor and marginalized. Prior to entering law school she was a social worker, and while in private practice she represented a large number of working poor and handled numerous pro bono cases. She was a co-founder of the "Ask-a-Lawyer" pro bono program, a founding member and continued supporter of the Bexar County Community Justice Program, and chair of the San Antonio/Bexar County Continuum of Care for the Homeless. In addition to her clinical duties she provides legal advice to the homeless at several local soup kitchens. She is a frequent lecturer in the areas of Clinical Education, Critical Jurisprudence, Violence against Women and Children, and Family Law. She has been recognized by several groups for her commitment to and work with the poor. In the last two years she has been honored as the Distinguished Faculty Member- School of Law, received the Marianist Heritage Award, the Alice Franzke Feminist Award, and the Chancellor's Award.