The Celebration of Achievement and Inclusive Excellence is a prestigious event that brings together the Santa Clara Law community to honor the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have made a lasting impact both in the legal field and broader society through their work, leadership, and dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable world. 

Awards Presented:

• Alumni Special Achievement Award: The Alumni Special Achievement Award was established by Santa Clara University School of Law’s Alumni Association to publicly recognize outstanding achievements of their alumni. Recipients have distinguished themselves in their profession, community, and in service to humanity. The award is based on a variety of factors, including community service, youth activities, career achievement, community educational involvement, professional and community honors, business and professional leadership, and education honors and SCU involvement.
• Amicus Award: The Santa Clara Law Amicus Award was established in 2009 to recognize a non-alumnus who has demonstrated the highest level of leadership in the legal profession and the community, while significantly advancing the mission and reputation of Santa Clara Law.
• Owens Lawyer of the Year: The Edwin J. Owens Lawyer of the Year, an award given to a distinguished member of the law school community who is devoted to the highest ideals of the profession and has made significant contributions to the University, the community, and the law. First awarded in 1966, the Owens award is named for Edwin J. Owens, a longtime dean of the law school who was later a superior court judge.
• Rising Star Award: The Rising Star Award began in 2013 to recognize a Santa Clara Law graduate who has distinguished him/herself after less than ten years in practice and has demonstrated impact in the community through their service and commitment to the law.

• Inclusive Excellence Award: The Santa Clara Law Inclusive Excellence Award honors an individual or organization that has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within their field, community, or organization. This award honors those who have made significant contributions to fostering an inclusive environment, advocating for social justice, and empowering underrepresented groups. 

Together, these awards reflect the core values of Santa Clara Law: excellence, ethics, social justice, and inclusion. The Celebration of Achievement and Inclusive Excellence is an opportunity for our community to come together, celebrate the remarkable achievements of  Santa Clara Law alumni, friends, and community members who have made a transformative impact on the law school and the legal community.