Innovation in Action: The Institute of Law, Technology & Innovation
By: Suzi Baugh
Emerging technologies continue to reshape the legal and business landscapes, and FSU College of Law’s groundbreaking Institute of Law, Technology & Innovation is making sure FSU law students stay in-the-know. Positioned at the intersection of legal scholarship and real-world innovation, the Institute is quickly becoming a national leader in educating the next generation of lawyers, technologists, and policy makers.
With a compelling lineup of webinars covering topics such as artificial intelligence and the law, cybersecurity, space law, U.S. privacy regulations, and health care innovation, the Institute is tackling some of the most urgent and complex challenges facing today’s legal professionals. These timely conversations are resonating by Spring 2025; the Institute was drawing over 500 virtual attendees on average per session—marking a staggering 500% increase in attendance compared to the previous year.
This meteoric rise in visibility is no accident. With strategic email outreach reaching over 1.8 million contacts and boasting industry-leading open rates of more than 50%, the Institute’s digital presence is translating into real engagement. Now, with new sponsorship opportunities launching for the 2025–2026 academic year, FSU Law is poised to deepen its impact even further by inviting mission-aligned organizations to support and engage with its forward-thinking programming.
The Institute also serves as a bridge between academics and applications. JD students, particularly those participating in the Stoops Fellows program, are immersed in events and research initiatives, providing them with firsthand experience in tech-driven legal practice. This approach extends to the broader FSU community, with the Institute hosting honors students and alumni for exclusive panels and networking opportunities that cultivate talent and foster interdisciplinary dialogue.
FSU Law’s national footprint is also expanding. Over the past year, the Institute has represented the university at more than seven major conferences spanning the legal, technology, health care, human resources, and education sectors. This presence solidifies Florida State’s reputation as not only a thought leader but also a vital contributor to national conversations on law and innovation.
That reputation is reinforced by prestigious recognition. FSU Law was named Florida’s first law school-led executive education center, and it earned an A+ in Business Law from PreLaw Magazine—a testament to the College’s commitment to excellence and its innovative academic offerings.
Looking ahead, the Institute of Law, Technology & Innovation is charting a bold course. With plans to expand national continuing legal education (CLE) offerings, launch new certifications and stackable credentials, strengthen employer partnerships, and enhance digital reach, the Institute is setting the stage for a lasting impact. Together with the Stoops Center for Law and Business, it is helping redefine the role of legal education in an era of technological disruption and opportunity.