Written by: Katie Linder  

Justice Susan M. Crawford (94JD) decided to attend law school to help tackle big social problems and improve people’s lives. In the 32 years since she graduated from the University of Iowa College of Law, she’s carried that purpose with her in private practice, public service, and now as a state Supreme Court Justice. 

Earning her seat didn’t come easily. She put up a fight in Wisconsin, where voters elected Crawford to a 10-year term on the state Supreme Court in April 2025. Her win followed a wave of national media attention, drawing former and sitting presidents to the campaign trail, and unprecedented levels of public engagement and fundraising. A record of over $100 million was spent in the Badger State, making it the most expensive state judicial race in U.S. history. 

Crawford couldn’t predict this would be her professional destiny when she earned her JD from the University of Iowa back in 1994, but she says there was an important theme that guided her as opportunities presented themselves over the years. 

“The through line is looking for opportunities to help people,” she said. 

Enjoying the educational journey 

Hailing from Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, Crawford’s first passion was the pursuit of higher education, earning her undergraduate degree from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin and a graduate degree in English from Indiana University. 

Initially, Crawford thought her path would take her toward a PhD in English literature and an academic career. Ultimately, she decided to change course from literature to law, which brought her to Iowa Law. She says she didn’t have a specific vision for her legal career when she entered law school, but she knew it could open doors to helping others. At Iowa, she enjoyed studying the law more than she expected. 

“During my first semester, I realized what a privilege it is to understand the rules that structure society,” she explained. “That sense of privilege has stayed with me and reinforces my belief in the responsibility lawyers have to use their knowledge positively, even beyond our professional lives.” 

Crawford especially enjoyed exploring areas such as educational law and constitutional issues in her course work. A formative experience was serving on the editorial board for the Transnational Law & Contemporary Problems journal and as editor-in-chief during her final year. At the time, the journal was still relatively new. 

“Managing people, producing a publication, and dedicating significant time to that role gave me leadership skills that I’ve relied on throughout my career,” she added. 

Advice for the Class of 2026 

Crawford will return to the University of Iowa on Friday, May 15, 2026, to deliver the commencement address to 150 graduates. Crawford says she is especially delighted that the students themselves voted to invite her to speak.                                                    

“It’s a great honor and a pleasure to return to campus to celebrate commencement with the graduates,” she added. 

During her remarks, Crawford will reassure graduates that they do not need to have their career fully planned. That it is more important to remain open to opportunities and, of course, to work hard. 

“Law is a service profession—built on relationships and serving clients. Focus on doing good work, developing your skills, and staying open to where opportunities may lead, rather than worrying about where you’ll be 10 or 20 years from now,” she said. 

Crawford’s remarks reflect her own career, which was a winding road leading to her current role as a Justice on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Previous roles include time as a civil litigator in private practice, as chief legal counsel for Governor Jim Doyle, and as an assistant attorney general in both the Iowa Attorney General’s Office and the Wisconsin Department of Justice. 

“Focus on the best opportunity available to you right now that will allow you to help people and make good use of your skills and background. Serving your clients well will create stepping stones to future opportunities,” she added. 

Staying connected to Iowa City and Iowa Law 

Crawford remains connected to Iowa Law. Currently, fellow Iowa Law graduate Jane Jozefowicz (25JD) is clerking for her at the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Crawford laughed as she mentioned that Jozefowicz may have lobbied 3L friends behind the scenes to pick her to speak at commencement. 

Additionally, Crawford has taken the time to return to campus to judge moot court competitions and has attended Iowa Law alumni events like Reunion Weekend. Iowa City is also where she met her husband, so the pair enjoy visiting and re-exploring the downtown area together. 

“We enjoy walking around town, revisiting familiar places, and reminiscing. It’s always fun to see how many old institutions are still there, and to explore the new hot spots,” she added.