PIJD Newsletter
First Class of Public Interest J.D. Cohort Graduates
This spring marked a significant milestone for Santa Clara Law's Public Interest J.D. (PIJD) Program as we celebrated the graduation of our inaugural cohort. Eight students completed the program and were recognized at the Center for Social Justice's Graduation and End-of-Year Celebration on May 21.
Over the course of their legal education, these students demonstrated a deep commitment to public service through coursework, experiential learning, mentorship, and community engagement. As the first graduates of the PIJD Program, they have helped shape the program's foundation and set a strong example for future cohorts.
These alumni will hold post-bar positions in 4 states - California, Wisconsin, Colorado, and Texas. They are working in all areas of public interest - from serving in eviction defense and as public defenders all the way to JAG.
We are proud of their accomplishments and grateful for the dedication, resilience, and passion they brought to the Santa Clara Law community. We look forward to seeing the impact they will make as they begin their legal careers in service to others and excited that many have already committed to mentoring incoming 1L PIJDs.