About Stephen
Stephen Ware is the Frank Edwards Tyler Distinguished Professor of Law at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas. He has been a faculty member at the University since 2003, where he teaches courses in contracts, commercial law, bankruptcy, and alternative dispute resolution. In 2019, his contributions to legal education were recognized when he was named the Frank Edwards Tyler Distinguished Professor of Law. This prestigious title supports his both teaching and scholarship in the field. Before joining the University of Kansas, Ware had a distinguished academic career at six law schools. Notably, he spent a decade at Samford University's Cumberland School of Law, where he significantly influenced the legal curriculum and mentored countless students.
His extensive teaching experience is complemented by a robust publication record; he has authored four books and over 40 law review articles. His scholarly work has garnered attention in the legal community, with citations from the U.S. Supreme Court and in at least 32 other federal and state cases, underscoring his impact on legal discourse. Ware's academic credentials are impressive. He holds a Juris Doctor with honors from the University of Chicago Law School, where he served as an associate editor of the University of Chicago Law Review. His undergraduate education includes a Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, in American history and political science from the University of Pennsylvania.
These degrees provide a strong foundation for his teaching and research — This lets the attorney engage deeply with complex legal issues. In addition to his academic responsibilities, Ware has been active in legal practice and public service. He has testified before the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, as well as various state legislatures, contributing his expertise on important legal matters. His role as an expert witness in court showcases his practical knowledge and commitment to the legal profession. He is also an elected member of the American Law Institute, which highlights his standing in the legal community.
Furthermore, he has served on the editorial board of the Journal of Legal Education, helping to shape the future of legal scholarship. Ware is licensed to practice law in New York, where he has been a member of the New York State Bar since 1991. He is also an active member of the Kansas Bar Association. At the University of Kansas, he takes an active role in student development, coaching the KU Law bankruptcy moot court team and serving as a faculty adviser to the KU Law chapter of the Federalist Society. His dedication to mentoring students reflects his belief in the importance of fostering the next generation of legal professionals.