Dean and Provost Larry Cunningham said the LRAW faculty appointments are part of a strategic initiative to transition the program to a full-time-faculty model.

“This is a significant step in the history of our young school,” said Cunningham. “Writing and research are among the most critical skills for lawyers. Our students will benefit from full-time faculty who are accessible, have deep expertise in the pedagogy and rhetoric of writing, and are fully integrated in the life of the law school. I am particularly excited about welcoming so many of our alumni back to their alma mater, now as faculty.”

The addition of Professor Regis to the faculty is part of an ongoing commitment to continuing the Law School’s history of strong classroom teaching in substantive courses. “Professor Regis is an accomplished practitioner and adjunct professor. We look forward to welcoming her now as a full-time faculty member.”

Melanie Regis

Regis begins her first full year at the law school as an Assistant Professor of Law. She was previously an Adjunct Professor of Law. She earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science from Howard University and Juris Doctor from Northeastern School of Law in Boston. Professor Regis was an accomplished appellate attorney before joining the Law School.

“My goal is to ensure that students get a better understanding of how cases are applied in ‘real world’ scenarios,” said Regis. “I believe practical experience prepares students holistically.”

Suzanne Chapman (’13)

Chapman, an adjunct faculty member since 2019, is a founding member of the Ethridge Law Group where she practiced civil litigation. She joins the full-time ranks as a as LRAW professor. “I am committed to teaching the next generation of analytical thinkers,” she said.

Chapman is also an active member in the community including volunteer experience for the Ronald McDonald House, Lowcountry Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and the South Carolina Reading Partners.

Erica McElreath (’09)

“I am passionate about helping students develop the skills and confidence they need to become successful lawyers,” said Erica McElreath. “The small class settings and opportunities for one-on-one and small group learning is a great opportunity to mentor law students.”

McElreath was a practicing attorney at the Lawton Law Firm from 2009-2016. She brings a wealth of experience to the classroom including personal injury, workers compensation, and small business defense.

Melissa Simondi (’16)

Simondi (’16) earned her undergraduate degree from Wofford University where she majored in Political Science. After receiving her Juris Doctor from Charleston Law, Simondi served as an associate attorney at Bleecker Law Firm and Andrews Mediation and Law Firm. She joined the law school in January as an LRAW adjunct professor before accepting a full-time role with the school.

“I love exploring the law with students,” she said. “It is rewarding to watch law students learn and grow in the classroom.”

Frank Ulmer

Ulmer’s professional career includes the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, a federal clerkship under Judge David C. Norton, and two decades of experience as a trial attorney in Georgia, Virginia and, most recently, South Carolina.

“I have a deep respect for the mission and values of Charleston School of Law,” he said. “I look forward to working and collaborating with students and colleagues.”

Classes for the Fall 2022 semester begin on Monday, August 22.

For a complete list of all academic dates, visit charlestonlaw.edu.