University of Windsor President J.J. McMurtry, right, presents Prof. David Tanovich with the title of Distinguished University Professor during the Fall 2025 Convocation ceremony on Oct. 16. (JOHN-PAUL BONADONNA/University of Windsor)
By Sara Meikle
David Tanovich, professor and Chair in Criminal Law and Racial Justice in University of Windsor’s Faculty of Law, has been named to the rank of Distinguished University Professor in recognition of his exceptional contributions to legal scholarship and social justice in Canada.
A leading criminal law scholar, Prof. Tanovich has enhanced the reputation and impact of Windsor Law and the University of Windsor for more than 22 years.
His influential work has shaped how courts, academics, students, legal professionals and policymakers understand critical issues in Canadian criminal law — particularly in the areas of sexual assault and racial profiling.
His research on the ethical limits of cross-examinations in sexual assault trials has helped transform how survivors are treated in courtrooms across the country. He has also been a national leader in exposing and addressing anti-Black racism in the criminal justice system. Tanovich’s groundbreaking scholarship has not only informed legal practice but also opened new and important directions for research.
“Professor Tanovich has moved the justice system toward its aim of justice for all through engagement with the legal community as well as the broader public,” said one of his nominators.
Over the course of his career, Tanovich has authored more than 100 publications, including books, peer-reviewed articles, case commentaries and media pieces. He has also appeared before the Supreme Court of Canada and the Ontario Court of Appeal, where his legal arguments and writings have been cited by Canadian courts nearly 3,000 times.
His achievements have been recognized with several prestigious honours.
In 2017, he was elected to the Royal Society of Canada, one of the highest accolades for Canadian scholars. In 2019, he received the Mundell Medal, awarded by Ontario’s Attorney General for outstanding contributions to legal writing.
The Distinguished University Professor title was formally presented at the University of Windsor’s Fall 2025 Convocation, held at the Toldo Lancer Centre on Oct. 16.
The designation, introduced by the University Senate in 1986, recognizes faculty members with distinguished achievements in teaching and a national or international reputation for scholarly, creative or professional excellence.
In addition to his scholarly work, Tanovich is celebrated as an extraordinary teacher and mentor. He is deeply engaged with students and actively contributes to committees across the University.
As one recent graduate noted, “Professor Tanovich teaches with passion and has made criminal law come alive for generations of law students at Windsor Law.”
With a career marked by impactful research, outstanding teaching and dedicated service, Tanovich exemplifies the values of academic excellence and public service and is a most deserving recipient of the title Distinguished University Professor.