University of Idaho appoints Brian Kane dean of College of Law amid enrollment growth

IBR STAFF//May 15, 2026//

Brian Kane

IBR STAFF//May 15, 2026//

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The University of Idaho has named Brian Kane dean of its College of Law, the university announced Thursday. He begins July 31.

At a Glance:

Brian Kane named dean of University of Idaho College of Law
Fall 2025 enrollment rises 9.8% to 502 students
Kane succeeds interim dean Aliza Cover after extensive search

Kane currently serves as chief executive officer and executive director of the National Association of Attorneys General. He previously spent 20 years as chief deputy attorney general for the Idaho Office of the Attorney General and has taught as adjunct faculty at the College of Law since 2017.

A University of Idaho alumnus, Kane earned a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from the university, where he also served as ASUI president. He went on to earn his law degree from Northwestern School of Law at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, and served four years in the U.S. Army, primarily with the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood.

“We believe Brian’s professional experience will benefit the College of Law and expand the relationships and connections that make studying law at University of Idaho so valuable,” said Torrey Lawrence, provost and executive vice president.

Kane will replace Interim Dean Aliza Cover, who was appointed to the role after an internal search earlier this year, after the departure of Aviva Abramovsky. She was named dean of the College of Law in June of 2024. She was hired as the president and CEO of The National Judicial College in Reno, Nevada, in January of 2026.

He takes over as the college is experiencing significant growth. Fall 2025 enrollment rose 9.8% to 502 students, including the largest first-year class in school history. The dean oversees campuses in both Moscow and Boise.