UMass Law UMass Law: UMass Law welcomes two visiting professors for 2024-25 academic year

Visiting faculty bring diverse expertise in civil procedure, health law, legal research, and more

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth School of Law is proud to announce the addition of two esteemed visiting professors, Brian Sirman and Lisa M. Ungerbuehler, for the 2024-25 academic year. Bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to legal education, Sirman and Ungerbuehler are excited to add their insight to the academic environment at UMass Law. 

"I am thrilled that Professors Ungerbuehler and Sirman are joining our outstanding faculty for the coming academic year," said UMass Law Dean Sam Panarella. "They are both excellent teachers and innovative scholars who bring extensive practical experience and a deep grounding in legal theory into their classes."

"As a first-generation college and law school graduate, I have personally experienced the transformative power of education. I am eager to contribute to a community dedicated to preparing future lawyers to pursue justice and make a meaningful impact in their communities."

Brian Sirman, JD 

Sirman joins UMass Law with a distinguished background in both legal practice and academia. He will teach courses in civil procedure and health law, drawing on his experience and research that explores the relationship between law and manners. His interdisciplinary approach considers the historical and contemporary implications of these interactions in areas such as entrepreneurship, political economy, architecture, and urban livability.

Sirman began his legal career as a litigation associate at Ropes & Gray, where he represented healthcare clients in federal and state civil litigation. Before pursuing law, he taught history, architecture, and writing at several institutions. He is an expert in brutalist architecture and author of Concrete Changes: Architecture, Politics, and the Design of Boston City Hall, published by the University of Massachusetts Press in 2018. Sirman holds a PhD in American & New England Studies from Boston University and a JD from William and Mary Law School.

"I’ve been struck by the collegiality, kindness, and mission-driven passion among UMass Law students, staff, and faculty," said Sirman. "I am delighted and honored to join this community."

Lisa M. Ungerbuehler, JD, LLM

Ungerbuehler brings UMass Law students a diverse legal background in both private and public sectors, with expertise in estate and healthcare planning in the private practice, and public service experience as a staff attorney for state trial and appellate court judges and as assistant general counsel for the Florida Department of Health.

Ungerbuehler's teaching portfolio includes civil procedure, professional responsibility, legal research and writing, and clinical courses. A passionate educator, she is dedicated to creating inclusive and inspiring learning environments that prepare students to become ethical leaders in the legal profession. Recognized for her excellence in teaching with multiple honors, she was named Professor of the Year at Barry University School of Law for two consecutive years. Ungerbuehler earned her JD from Stetson University College of Law and her LLM from UCLA School of Law. She is a licensed member of the Florida Bar.

"I am excited to join UMass Law because of its unwavering commitment to excellence and its dedication to providing a high-quality legal education that is affordable," said Ungerbuehler. "As a first-generation college and law school graduate, I have personally experienced the transformative power of education. I am eager to contribute to a community dedicated to preparing future lawyers to pursue justice and make a meaningful impact in their communities."