December 10, 2025

Lauren Leichtman Re-Elected Chair of Southwestern Law School Board of Trustees

Southwestern Law School is proud to announce that private equity leader and Southwestern alumna Lauren Leichtman has been re-elected Chair of the Southwestern Law School Board of Trustees for a new three-year term.

A long-time trustee and former Vice Chair of the Board, Leichtman was first elected Chair in 2022. As Chair, she works closely with Southwestern’s leadership to guide the law school’s strategic direction, financial sustainability, and long-term institutional strength.

“Lauren brings an extraordinary combination of business acumen, governance experience, and deep commitment to Southwestern,” said Darby Dickerson, President and Dean of Southwestern Law School. “Her leadership has been instrumental as we navigate a rapidly changing legal and higher-education landscape. We are fortunate to have her wisdom and steady hand as Board Chair for another term.”

Leichtman co-founded Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP) in 1984 with her husband, Arthur Levine, and built it into a $20 billion private equity firm. She serves as Co-Chairperson of the firm’s Executive Committee, actively overseeing LLCP’s strategic direction, firm management, and investment activities. Leichtman has substantial experience originating, acquiring, and managing middle-market companies across a range of industries.

In 2024, Leichtman and Levine acquired San Diego Wave FC, an American professional soccer team competing in the National Women’s Soccer League. Before co-founding LLCP, Leichtman practiced law, including service in the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Enforcement Division.

“Southwestern opened doors for me and equipped me with the skills and confidence to build a meaningful career in law and business,” said Leichtman. “It is a privilege to give back to the institution that shaped my professional life and to support the next generation of lawyers and leaders.”

Leichtman holds a B.A. from California State University, Northridge, a J.D. from Southwestern Law School, and an LL.M. from Columbia Law School.