BIO

Professor Heyward was admitted to practice law in the state of Ohio in 1993 and since 1998 has focused her practice on issues relating to real estate and economic development. Professor Heyward is a member of the clinical faculty at Cleveland-Marshall College of Law where she teaches in the Urban Development Law Clinic. The Clinic provides law students the opportunity to gain valuable practical skills by providing legal assistance to community development organizations that focus on improving Cleveland's neighborhoods through real estate and economic development activities.

Professor Heyward focuses her practice and teaching efforts in the areas of economic development, real estate, and corporate law. Prior to joining the faculty at Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Professor Heyward served as General Counsel of the Housing Research & Advocacy Center and as an associate at the law firm Messerman & Messerman, Co., L.P.A. She has provided technical assistance to municipalities relating to housing and economic development activities, provided expert testimony, participated in Community Reinvestment Act challenges, and litigated cases in state and federal courts.

Professor Heyward currently serves on the board of directors of The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland and the Equal Justice Foundation and as a volunteer magistrate in Cuyahoga County's juvenile diversion program.