Phoenix Legal Ace Lee Stein Joins Arizona Board of Regents

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has named Phoenix attorney Lee Stein to the Arizona Board of Regents, occupying a seat that has been vacant since February.

Stein, who brings his experience as a former assistant U.S. attorney and special assistant attorney general, specializes in white collar law with the firm Mitchell Stein Carey Chapman. Hobbs praised Stein’s record of advocating for accountability and transparency, emphasizing his suitability for the role.

“I am humbled by Gov. Hobbs’ confidence in me,” Stein remarked. “Higher education is vital to our state’s future, and I am eager to contribute to ensuring our universities maintain high standards and accessibility for Arizona students.”

Stein’s appointment fills the position left by Bob Herbold, who stepped down in February due to health issues. Stein will complete Herbold’s term, which runs until January 2028. The Board of Regents oversees Arizona’s three public universities: the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Northern Arizona University, including the appointment of their presidents.

ABOR Chair Cecilia Mata commended Stein as a nationally recognized attorney with extensive experience in Title IX and student rights. Stein also has a diverse background as a trial lawyer, representing clients in government investigations and cases involving environmental law, fraud, and corruption.

Stein’s legal practice includes defending students accused of misconduct at universities, with experience in successfully litigating cases and navigating the disciplinary processes under Title IX.

Governor Hobbs’ office highlighted Stein’s deep ties to Arizona, mentioning his roles on former Senator John McCain’s Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee, as an adjunct professor at both Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, and as law clerk for the Arizona Supreme Court.

Stein’s firm profile notes his magna cum laude graduation from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, where he was elected to the Order of the Coif and served as editor-in-chief of the Law Review. He also clerked for Arizona Supreme Court Justice James Moeller.