In a heartwarming display of community service, many Santa Clara Law students and faculty participated in Pro Bono Week, dedicating their time and talents to those in need. This designated week promotes pro bono service—legal work performed at no charge—offering individuals and organizations the opportunity to contribute their skills to underserved communities and important causes.
As part of Pro Bono Week, ChIPs (Chiefs in IP) organized a Letter Writing initiative aimed at brightening the days of isolated senior citizens. The ChIPs team, along with many other Santa Clara law students, came together to write and decorate letters for seniors in care facilities across the country. These letters included personal anecdotes, descriptions of upcoming events the students would be participating in, and uplifting words of encouragement. To add a festive touch, the cards were adorned with cheerful Halloween stickers, perfectly capturing the spirit of the fall season.
Over 30 letters were collected and will soon be sent to a senior center in Nebraska, reflecting the deep emotional connection many students felt to the project, as if they were writing to their own grandparents. Jenna Tobin, co-president of ChIPs, remarked, “It was wonderful to see all the students who came to the table, excited to write colorful and kind letters to the senior citizens. We hope to brighten the day of each recipient.”
In addition to this heartfelt initiative, students had the opportunity to participate in “Meet the Employers Day,” hosted by the Office of Career Management and the Center for Social Justice and Public Service. This event filled the atrium with buzzing excitement as students engaged with representatives from various public sector employers, including local district attorney offices and military representatives. As Northern California’s largest public interest/public sector hiring fair, it offered students a chance to network early and make a strong impression on attorneys in the field. Conversations flowed as students sought advice, asked questions, and learned about potential pathways in public service, reinforcing their commitment to making a meaningful impact in their communities. This event not only fostered connections but also inspired students to envision their future roles as advocates and leaders in the legal field. Check out photos from the event here!
Santa Clara Law’s Center for Social Justice and Public Service aims to improve the lives of marginalized and underrepresented communities. The Center promotes social justice advocacy by supporting faculty in research, teaching, and equity-based service. It also provides students with access to pro bono legal services through the Pro Bono Recognition Program, established in 1990 by a group of law students. This program allows students to gain valuable pro bono experience and connect with a broad network of student attorneys, each offering individual projects. This initiative underscores the Center’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of social justice practitioners and creating pathways to law school for those dedicated to public service.
Overall, Pro Bono Week at Santa Clara Law highlights the school’s dedication to building community, social justice, and outreach. Through initiatives like the letter-writing campaign and the Pro Bono Recognition Program, students and faculty come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of underserved communities. These efforts not only uplift individuals but also enrich the personal and professional growth of participating students. Santa Clara University School of Law’s commitment to fostering a culture of service inspires students to use their legal skills for the public good, shaping a new generation of advocates who prioritize empathy and justice.