Teachers of the Year
Head of the Class
Professors Erin Islo, Edward Cheng and Margaret Hahn-DuPont (left to right) were selected as Northeastern Law’s 2026 Teachers of the Year. Islo and Cheng, who received the full-time and part-time faculty awards, respectively, were lauded by students for their deep expertise, dedication to student success and unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching and mentorship. Hahn-DuPont was chosen by the graduating class to deliver the faculty commencement address — the second time a graduating class has tapped her for this high honor. Islo was also recognized with the 2026 Northeastern University Excellence in Teaching Award.
“While each of these exemplary faculty members brings their own style and perspective to the classroom, all of our award winners clearly share a passion for teaching, an ability to make complex legal concepts accessible and engaging, and an exceptional interest in engaging with students through thoughtful listening and ensuring every student knows and understands how to apply the law in meaningful ways,” said Dean James Hackney.
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First-year students are doing real legal work for real families — and discovering how much the justice system leaves undone.
In April, Professor Margaret Burnham’s colleagues, students and fellow travelers came together for a symposium to honor that work, celebrate Burnham’s retirement and recommit to carrying the torch forward.
