Meet Giselle Santibañez-Bania
Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Services
Hometown: Flushing, New York; Miami, Florida; Chicago, Illinois
What do you enjoy most about your role at Dickinson Law? It is so exciting and energizing to work with law students. Working with graduate professional students is incredibly interesting — they bring so much passion to their studies and to the law. I enjoy supporting student organizations with their programs and initiatives, and helping students explore their interests. My goal is to help students develop their “whole” self by promoting wellness and academic resources, and by supporting their personal, professional, and academic goals. Watching students develop and grow over the course of their legal education, and beyond, is both a joy and a privilege.
A Dickinson Law favorite: Definitely the people! I was immediately attracted to Dickinson Law — everyone is so kind, and the sense of community among the staff, faculty, and student body is palpable. Everyone is invested in student success. The faculty and staff care deeply about students, and students support and encourage each other. It is a truly special place!
Best piece of advice for anyone considering Dickinson Law: Take advantage of all of the resources available to you! Every single person here is invested in your success and will offer help along the way. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you need anything at all!
Favorite thing to do in your spare time: I love to travel, cook, and spend time with my family and friends. I am an avid foodie, and I like to explore and try different cuisines from around the world.
You’d never guess…: My first language is not English! I am first gen, and my parents immigrated to the U.S. from Cuba and Spain. I speak Spanish fluently and have working knowledge of Italian and French.
Life before Dickinson Law: Right after law school, I practiced law for ten years as a litigator in both the private and public sectors. I specialized in medical malpractice defense work. Around my tenth year of practice, I was offered the opportunity to join the administration at my alma mater as the Associate Director for Student Services. I have worked in legal education for nearly 15 years, most recently as the Assistant Dean for Student Services at Loyola University Chicago School of Law. While at Loyola, I coached an award-winning mock trial team, and led the law school’s study law abroad program in Rome, Italy. I received my B.A. from Washington University in St. Louis and my J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law. While in law school, I served as president of the Latino American Law Students Association and was a founding member of Loyola’s Moot Court Honors Board.
Three words to describe yourself: Determined, empathetic, creative
Favorite book: Too many to list! A few favorites include: Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, Jubilee by Margaret Walker, Blindness by Jose Saramago, The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood, and The Passage by Justin Cronin.
Email Giselle Santibañez-Bania