Rutgers University–Camden Adds Michael Rolek and Melissa Dutton Schaffer to General Counsel Team
Overview of the New General Counsel Appointments
Rutgers University–Camden has expanded its legal leadership by appointing Michael Rolek as Special Counsel and Melissa Dutton Schaffer as Senior Associate General Counsel in the General University Affairs & Litigation Group. Both professionals bring extensive experience in public‑sector compliance, higher‑education law, and complex litigation—skills that will strengthen the university’s legal framework and support its mission of academic excellence.
Michael Rolek: Background and Expertise
Rolek previously served as Of Counsel at Connell Foley LLP, advising public entities and private clients on regulatory compliance, corporate governance, employment law, and state and federal commercial litigation. His work with the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority involved high‑profile infrastructure deals, procurement, and arena licensing agreements for major sports franchises and international events. Rolek’s legal acumen is complemented by a strong academic record—summa cum laude from Marist College and a cum laude J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law—and a commitment to public service, demonstrated by his Teach For America experience in Newark.
Melissa Dutton Schaffer: Background and Expertise
Schaffer brings a decade of experience in administrative law and higher‑education litigation. As Deputy Director of the Administrative Law Practice Group in the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, she managed complex trial and appellate cases for state agencies, including colleges and research universities. Her prior roles at The College of New Jersey and the Department of Law’s Education & Higher Education Section further underscore her deep understanding of the regulatory landscape that governs universities. Schaffer earned her undergraduate degree from Rutgers University–Camden and her J.D. from Widener University, Delaware Law School.
Strategic Impact on Rutgers University–Camden
Enhancing Compliance and Litigation Strategy
With Rolek’s expertise in regulatory compliance and Schaffer’s experience in higher‑education litigation, the university is better positioned to navigate evolving federal and state regulations. Their combined knowledge will help mitigate risk, streamline contract negotiations, and protect the university’s interests in complex litigation scenarios.
Strengthening Higher Education Legal Services
Schaffer’s background in representing colleges and universities will enhance the university’s ability to address issues ranging from faculty contracts to student discipline and privacy concerns. Rolek’s experience with large infrastructure projects will support campus expansion initiatives and partnership agreements with external stakeholders.
Opportunities for Legal Professionals
Career Pathways at Rutgers
Rutgers University–Camden offers a range of legal career paths, from in‑house counsel roles to specialized positions in compliance, litigation, and higher‑education policy. Professionals with experience in public‑sector law, corporate governance, or educational institutions will find a supportive environment that values interdisciplinary collaboration.
Networking and Professional Development
The university hosts regular legal seminars, workshops, and networking events that bring together faculty, staff, and external partners. These forums provide a platform for sharing best practices, staying current on regulatory changes, and building relationships that can advance career growth.
How Students and Faculty Can Engage
Legal Clinics and Internship Programs
Rutgers offers legal clinics that allow students to work on real cases under the supervision of experienced attorneys. Faculty members can collaborate on research projects that explore emerging legal challenges in higher education, such as data privacy, student loan regulation, and campus safety.
Accessing Legal Resources
All students and faculty can access the university’s legal resources through the Office of General Counsel’s online portal. The portal includes policy documents, compliance guidelines, and a searchable database of past litigation outcomes that can inform academic research and practical decision‑making.
Next Steps for Interested Parties
Whether you are a legal professional seeking a new opportunity, a student interested in a career in higher‑education law, or a faculty member looking to collaborate on research, Rutgers University–Camden offers a dynamic environment to grow and contribute.
