An alumnus of the law school is now the attorney general of the United States.

William Barr, who received his law degree from GW in 1977, was confirmed by the Senate Thursday with a vote of 54–45 and sworn in hours later. He was nominated for the position in December after Jeff Sessions resigned at the president’s request the month before.

Barr previously served as the attorney general under former President George H.W. Bush. Before attending GW, he earned both a bachelor’s degree in government and a master’s degree in government and Chinese studies from Columbia University.

Until recently, Barr worked at the D.C.-based law firm Kirkland & Ellis.

Johnathan Turley, a public interest law professor, testified on Barr’s behalf in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee last month.

“I can think of no person better suited to lead the Justice Department at this critical period in history,” Turley said in a written statement. “Bill Barr is a brilliant and honorable lawyer who can ensure stability and integrity in these turbulent times.”