The University of Pittsburgh School of Law is pleased to announce that Leigh Coogan (JD ’14) has been named Co-Director of the Externship Program. In this role, she will work alongside Assistant Dean of Public Interest Megan Lovett to revamp and strengthen one of Pitt Law’s primary experiential learning programs.
Pitt Law’s Externship Program allows JD students to earn academic credit for legal work outside the law school during the fall, spring, or summer terms, giving students meaningful opportunities to build practical skills, explore professional interests, and serve clients and communities in real-world legal settings.
Coogan brings experience in legal writing, student learning, and practice-ready education to the role. Beginning in Fall 2026, Coogan will serve as a Visiting Professor of Legal Writing, teaching two sections of 1L Legal Writing. Prior to teaching, Coogan practiced at K&L Gates, LLP, where she worked on matters involving health care, construction, and white-collar criminal defense. Her practice included researching complex legal issues, negotiating with the federal government over discovery requests, and drafting complaints and motions in state and federal court.
“I’m honored to step into this role and help strengthen a program that gives students the opportunity to connect their classroom learning with meaningful legal practice,” said Coogan. “Externships are often transformative experiences for students, helping them build professional judgment and a deeper understanding of how they want to use their law degree. I’m excited to work alongside Megan and Elena to continue expanding opportunities that prepare our students to thrive in the profession.”
The expansion of leadership within the Externship Program comes as Pitt Law continues to invest in experiential learning as a central part of its curriculum. The work will be guided by Professor Elena Baylis, Pitt Law’s inaugural Associate Dean for Experiential Learning, who is leading the growth and coordination of the law school’s experiential learning opportunities.
“Leigh brings a unique combination of academic excellence, thoughtful mentorship, and practical legal experience to this role,” said Baylis. “As Pitt Law continues to build a more cohesive and innovative experiential learning curriculum, her leadership will help ensure our students graduate with the skills necessary to succeed in today’s legal landscape.”
Coogan will also collaborate closely with Megan Lovett, Pitt Law’s inaugural Assistant Dean of Public Interest, whose portfolio includes public interest externships, pro bono initiatives, summer internships, community partnerships, and public interest-centered academic programming.
“Experiential learning and public service opportunities are foundational to Pitt Law’s mission,” said Lovett. “Leigh has a deep commitment to student growth and professional development, and I’m thrilled to partner with her as we continue strengthening the Externship Program.”
Together, Coogan, Lovett, and Baylis will help ensure that Pitt Law students have clear, well-supported pathways to gain hands-on legal experience, connect classroom learning with professional practice, and graduate prepared to serve clients, communities, and the profession.