Hall of Fame 2025: Professor Peter Lake

Law Professor Peter Lake speaks at a conference
Law Professor Peter Lake, Charles A. Dana Chair and Director, Center for Excellence in Higher Education Law and Policy

To alumni who took his torts class and top leaders in higher ed, Professor Peter F. Lake has achieved rockstar status. With more than 30 years in higher education, this professor of law, Charles A. Dana Chair, and director of Stetson’s Center for Excellence in Higher Education Law and Policy has shown an unparalleled commitment not just to the College, but to higher ed itself.

For these reasons and more, Professor Lake is now a member of the Stetson Law Hall of Fame. “Peter Lake is an absolutely remarkable person,” said Stetson Law Dean D. Benjamin Barros. “When I’m out meeting with alumni, we often ask ‘Who is your most memorable professor?’ Peter Lake comes up so often. His impact on his students is really tangible.”

Professor Lake was inducted into the Hall of Fame during November 1 ceremony at the Don CeSar on St. Pete Beach, Florida.

An enduring passion for higher ed

Lake is an internationally recognized expert on higher education law and policy and has been quoted or referred to in hundreds of newspapers and court opinions. He is an award-winning academic and has authored numerous law review articles, books, and other publications.

A young man in black and a man with white hair, a blue suit, and a red tie hold a plaque.
Law Professor Peter Lake and former Stetson Law Dean Gary Vause

With support from his team, the center hosts hundreds of college and university officials for the National Conference for Higher Education Law & Policy, held annually on Clearwater Beach. As the event’s tagline, “See you at the beach,” suggests, his rigorous work ethic is tempered by his easygoing demeanor. Since joining the College of Law faculty in 1990, the double-Harvard graduate has served in many administrative functions at Stetson, including honor code administrator, interim director of Title IX compliance, special assistant to the dean, and the faculty representative to the board of trustees. He also serves his profession through extensive consulting work.

Decades of impactful work

In the classroom, Professor Lake also stands out. When alumni are asked about their favorite professors, he is one of the most common responses. His torts class is a favorite among students and alumni. Professor Lake’s engaging style and ability to make complex topics easily digestible have endeared him to generations of alumni. By supporting the Professor Peter F. Lake “Spirit of the Law” Award Endowment and the College of Law Food Pantry, he is also helping ensure students are equipped to succeed in their law school journey and beyond.

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Media contact: Kate Bradshaw
[email protected] | 727-430-1580
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