Gautam Hans

As Editor-in-Chief of The Crane Clarion and a standout student in Carla Young’s English class, Gautam Hans ’02 was known at Cranbrook for his wit, intellect, and talent with the written word. Encouraged by teachers like David Watson and inspired by a passion for storytelling, Hans went on to Columbia University and later earned both his J.D. and M.S. in information policy from the University of Michigan. Today, he is a Clinical Professor of Law at Cornell Law School and founding Director of the Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Clinic, where he explores how free speech, privacy, and civil liberties are shaped by developing technologies. A frequent media commentator and national leader in clinical legal education, Hans returned to Cranbrook to deliver the Fall 2023 Cum Laude keynote address, reflecting with warmth and humor on his years here—and encouraging students to be curious, to celebrate their victories, and to prepare for life’s “mysterious rooms.” He reminded students that even when college (or life) feels unfamiliar, the strength, flexibility, and drive first formed at Cranbrook will serve them well.