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Thomas Reichert

Thomas Reichert, Associate Professor of Law

Professor Thomas Reichert joins Simmons Law School with a unique connection to SIU, having earned all four of his degrees from the university: B.S. and M.Eng. in Civil Engineering, MBA, and J.D. (cum laude). He brings extensive experience as a practicing patent attorney and a passion for teaching discovered while instructing business undergraduates. Professor Reichert teaches Contracts I and Business Organizations, combining his practical experience in corporate and intellectual property law with dynamic classroom engagement and practical problem-solving exercises.

Professor Thomas A. Reichert embodies the spirit of SIU, having earned his B.S. in Civil Engineering (2012), M.Eng. in Civil and Environmental Engineering (2013), MBA (2018, cum laude), and J.D. (2018, cum laude) all from Southern Illinois University. His academic calling revealed itself while teaching a legal survey course for business undergraduates. During his second lecture, he experienced that rare moment of professional clarity: 'This is it - this is what I'm meant to do.

Before joining Simmons Law School, Professor Reichert practiced as a patent attorney at prestigious firms including Bookoff McAndrews, PLLC in Washington, DC, and Kutak Rock, LLP in Kansas City, where he specialized in corporate and intellectual property law. He is registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (Reg. No. 77,326) and is admitted to the Illinois Bar (Reg. No. 6343575) and Missouri Bar (Reg. No. 71135).

Professor Reichert's teaching philosophy emphasizes practical application and active student engagement. He designs his courses to bridge the gap between legal theory and real-world practice, incorporating practical problem-solving exercises that prepare students for both transactional work and bar examination success. His classroom approach focuses on developing critical thinking skills through intensive case analysis and collaborative learning.

His commitment to education extends beyond the classroom. Professor Reichert has served as a judge for the Illinois Junior Academy of Science, presented on topics ranging from AI ethics in medicine to branding strategies, and previously served on the Board of Directors for TNC Community, which provides services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Professor Reichert is excited to give back to the institution that has given him so much, helping to provide the same transformative educational opportunities to the next generation of legal professionals.
Office: Room 238
Phone: 
Email: tomreich@siu.edu
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