2026

On October 9, 2026, Santa Clara Law alumni returned to campus from all over the country to reconnect with fellow classmates, meet new faces, and celebrate their lasting connection to the University at the 2026 Law Grand Reunion. 

Dean Michael Kaufman hosted the evening and kicked off the festivities with a special pinning ceremony for Class of 2001 to recognize the 25th anniversary of their graduation from Santa Clara Law.

Jesse Wadhams, J.D. '01 explained that the shared experience of going through law school together is what keeps the bond strong between his peers, even after 25 years. “Being of the same age…You’re all wandering together and trying to figure it out together.” 

Rebecca Welch-Fisk, J.D. '01 and Jesse Wadhams, J.D. '01

Later, Dean Kaufman was joined by Dean Emerita Lisa Kloppenberg and Dean Emerita Anna Han to welcome and celebrate the Class of 1976. The “golden graduates” walked out onto Panetta Plaza to the Rocky theme song (“Gonna Fly Now” by Bill Conti) to receive medals and be inducted into the Albert J. Ruffo Golden Gavel Society. 

Established to honor Santa Clara Law alumni who have graduated 50 or more years ago, the Ruffo Society recognizes their longstanding connection to the school and their five decades of legacy in the profession. 

Bruce Sousa, J.D. '76 knew he wanted to be a lawyer since the sixth grade. After graduating from Santa Clara University in 1973, he applied to the School of Law. Why Santa Clara out of all law schools? He succinctly answered the question in his application: “I want to be a barrister. You have a good law school.” 

Bruce Sousa, J.D. '76; Dee Dee Foderingham; Madeline Damkar; John Damkar, J.D. '76

The special night took place at Charney Hall, where alumni basked in nostalgia and camaraderie with the sound of live piano playing in the background. Throughout the evening, alumni shared stories about their time as law students and caught up with friends and classmates. A 360 photo booth, caricature artist, and student-led tours also gave plenty of opportunities to mingle and explore.

Dean Michael Kaufman addresses Reunion attendees

As the evening came to a close, attendees bid each other reluctant goodbyes, capping a night centered on friendship, shared memories, and the enduring community built at Santa Clara Law.

The Grand Reunion was part of a two-day alumni celebration on campus. Other events included the John Paul Stevens Distinguished Alumni Fellow Awards on October 8, as well as the Datta Center for High Tech Law Happy Hour and Environmental Law Panel & Reception on October 9.