Faculty List

Fiona McKenna has had the privilege of teaching and advising students since 2011. She began her teaching career at Golden Gate University, where she directed the Legal Writing and Research Program. She joined Santa Clara in 2022, teaching Legal Analysis Research and Writing and Professional Responsibility. She co-directs the Public Interest JD Program, advising students who commit to pursuing careers in the public interest. 

Fiona is an active member of the legal writing community, and has served in various leadership roles with the Association of Legal Writing Directors (ALWD). ALWD recognized her dedication and leadership by awarding her with the Outstanding Service Award in 2020, 2022, and 2023. 

Prior to entering academia, Fiona practiced as a litigator, representing clients in business disputes and employment matters. Her pro bono work included representing foster parents in juvenile dependency proceedings.

Fiona is a proud, first-generation student. She graduated from American University, Washington College of Law, where she served as a Marshall Brennan Constitutional Law Fellow and Notes and Comments Editor for the International Law Review. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley (Go Bears!). In her spare time, Fiona enjoys yoga and walks with her cockapoo, Chewey. 

J.D., American University Washington College of Law, 2005

B.A., in Sociology, with high honors, University of California, Berkeley, 1999