A gifted professor and indelible mentor, Professor of Law and Associate Dean of Faculty Development Dave Levine inspires future lawyers with an emphasis on questioning narratives, embracing diversity of thought and engaging in meaningful discourse.
It’s often said that law school is a bit like trying to drink from a firehose — except the water is legal jargon, and the firehose is also on fire. But amid the chaos, I was fortunate to meet one of my most influential mentors, Professor David Levine. From the first day of class, it was clear Dave wasn’t just there to make sure we understood offer, acceptance and consideration. He didn’t just teach us the black-letter law; he challenged us to think critically about the principles behind legal doctrines and their application in the real world. His course on internet law and the growing impact of technology on information consumption pushed me to consider not just how we interpret legal frameworks but also how we, as consumers of information, must remain critical thinkers.
As Dave’s research assistant, I was lucky to have the opportunity to dive into the legal complexities of the digital age and realize just how much the law struggles to keep up with technology (spoiler alert: it really does). His lessons on critical thinking and ethical decision-making have stuck with me far beyond law school, more than anything I memorized for exams. When I was debating career paths, he encouraged me to follow my instincts and go into the public sector, emphasizing the importance of ethical leadership and the responsibility that comes with serving the public. Dave never sugarcoated the challenges of public service; instead, he made it clear that being an ethical and principled lawyer isn’t about having all the answers, but about being willing to grapple with tough questions.
His mentorship has influenced the kind of leader and public servant I strive to be and taught me that the law isn’t just about rules and regulations — it’s about the people it serves. I often reflect on the lessons he imparted: the importance of critical thinking, ethical responsibility and the courage to question the status quo. Dave’s mentorship has been a cornerstone of my professional development, shaping not just how I approach the law but helping me understand that true leadership lies in our ability to challenge assumptions, remain adaptable and always act with fairness and justice in mind, no matter the challenges ahead.
Merima Mustafic works for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where she provides legal expertise and strategic counsel on a diverse portfolio, including matters involving threats to national security and human rights violators.