Brooklyn Law School Expands Academic Support for Student Success With Two New Hires
As part of an enhanced focus on student success, Brooklyn Law School has created two new positions (L to R): John Reilly ’19 is the new Assistant Director of Academic Success and Bar Preparation Carl Olson was named Director of Academic Advising.
Brooklyn Law School is strengthening its commitment to student success through the creation of two new positions dedicated to enhancing academic advising and Bar preparation. The appointments of Carl Olson as Director of Academic Advising and John Reilly ’19 as Assistant Director of Academic Success and Bar Preparation mark an important expansion of the Law School’s student-centered resources and its investment in the next generation of legal professionals.
These roles ensure that every student—whether pursuing a J.D., LL.M., or international program—has access to individualized guidance throughout their academic journey and in preparation for the bar exam. Together, Olson and Reilly bring extensive experience and a shared dedication to helping students thrive in law school and beyond.
Expanding Academic Advising and Mentorship
As Director of Academic Advising, Carl Olson will serve as the primary point of contact for academic advising and as a co-advisor to the Student Advisor and Mentoring Program (SAMP). A 2018 graduate of St. John’s University School of Law, Olson has deep experience guiding students through every stage of their academic and professional development.
Olson has expertise in supporting international students, including LL.M.s. He began his teaching career as a lecturer at Northwest University of Political Science and Law in Xi’an, China, teaching U.S. legal writing, American legal systems, and courses related to international law. He also taught graduate and international students at the University of Illinois College of Law and held leadership roles at St. John’s University overseeing graduate support, student services, global engagement, and graduate admissions.
“Carl’s appointment reflects our dedication to meeting students where they are and helping them chart personalized paths toward success,” said Sarah Jean Kelly, Dean of Students and Interim Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “His experience supporting a diverse range of students will be an incredible asset to our academic advising efforts.”
Supporting Academic Success and Bar Readiness
Joining Olson in this effort is John Reilly ’19, who steps into the newly created role of Assistant Director of Academic Success and Bar Preparation. Reilly will serve as the primary resource for 2L, LL.M., and international students seeking academic support and bar guidance – completing an already strong team of academic success professionals, each of whom focuses on particular segments of the student population to serve all our students at the highest level.
A Brooklyn Law School graduate, Reilly began his legal career in private practice before pivoting to the regulatory sector, where he advised on sanctions, export controls, and anti-money laundering compliance. Since 2020, he has been an adjunct faculty member at Brooklyn Law School, teaching Pre-Bar I and II courses, Legal Analysis Seminar, and other academic success programs. He is also the author of The Brand-New Lawyer’s Guide to Passing the Bar, Learning the Trade, and Building a Sustainable Career, which provides practical advice and personal insight for students entering the legal profession.
“We are delighted to welcome John back to Brooklyn Law,” said Karen Porter, Associate Dean of Academic & Student Success. “His experience as both an alumnus and educator uniquely positions him to guide students through the challenges of law school and the transition into practice.”
Building on a Tradition of Student Support
The creation of these two new roles underscores Brooklyn Law School’s longstanding dedication to fostering academic excellence and professional readiness. By expanding advising and success services, the Law School ensures that every student has the mentorship, guidance, and tools needed to excel in the classroom, pass the bar, and build fulfilling legal careers.
As Brooklyn Law School prepares to celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2026, initiatives like these reflect the institution’s enduring mission: to empower students to succeed, serve the public good, and shape the future of the legal profession.