“This appointment allows the School of Law to recognize and support a faculty member whose work exemplifies our mission,” said Gallini. “The Tortora Professorship is awarded to faculty members who have distinguished themselves through exceptional teaching, scholarship, service or a combination of those contributions. Dean Barry’s career reflects all three.”

The Tortora Professorship is a rotating, distinguished professorship vested in a law faculty member every three years. Established in 2004 by his family, the professorship was created in honor of the late Carmen Tortora Sr. who served on Quinnipiac’s Board of Trustees. 

Gallini explains Barry’s notable leadership initiatives and how the Tortora Professorship recognizes his value to Quinnipiac and beyond. 

“Throughout his career at Quinnipiac Law, Dean Barry has distinguished himself through exceptional teaching, impactful scholarship and extraordinary service to both the law school and the broader legal community,” Gallini said. “In recent years, Dean Barry has played a central leadership role in advancing student success initiatives, strengthening our approach to licensure preparation, and helping position Quinnipiac Law for the future of legal education. At the same time, he has maintained an active scholarly agenda and remains a deeply respected teacher and mentor. The Tortora Professorship recognizes the breadth of those contributions and the meaningful impact he continues to have on our students, faculty and institution.”

This is an honor that Barry doesn't take lightly. He expressed gratitude toward Quinnipiac for supporting him. 

"I was deeply honored to be appointed the Carmen Tortora Professor of Law. Since joining Quinnipiac Law in 2008, I have been engaged in litigation, teaching and scholarship at the intersection of disability rights and the rights of gender-diverse people under the law," Barry said. "I am grateful to Quinnipiac for giving me the opportunity to devote additional time and attention to this work."

Gallini speaks further about what Barry will do in the professorship.

“The appointment reflects our commitment to investing in scholarly leadership that benefits both the academic community and the legal profession,” Gallini stated. “Through the professorship, Dean Barry will continue to advance his scholarly work while helping elevate Quinnipiac Law’s reputation as an institution deeply committed to student success, innovation and public service.”

Barry is invested in the success of those around him. Gallini explained his commitment to his students and colleagues.

“Dean Barry brings a rare combination of intellectual rigor, creativity, humility and genuine care for others. He is deeply invested in the success of our students and colleagues, and he approaches his work with both thoughtfulness and energy,” said Gallini. “What distinguishes Dean Barry most is his ability to connect big-picture institutional goals with the day-to-day experiences of students. Whether he is mentoring students, developing new initiatives, working with faculty colleagues, or contributing scholarship, he consistently focuses on how the law school can better prepare students for meaningful and successful careers. His leadership has improved the student experience, strengthened our academic programs and reinforced the collaborative culture that defines Quinnipiac.”

In closing, Gallini offered gratitude towards Barry and excitement for what is to come. 

“Dean Barry is exceptionally deserving of this recognition. I am grateful for his leadership, scholarship and service,” Gallini added. “I look forward to seeing how he uses this appointment to continue advancing both his scholarly work and the mission of Quinnipiac Law.”