On October 11, 2024, Santa Clara Law welcomed nearly 150 graduates back to campus for the Grand Reunion, accompanied by their families and friends. The evening on Panetta Plaza was filled with nostalgia as alumni gathered, their laughter and stories echoing the memories of their law school days. Their enduring bond with the Law School was palpable, demonstrating a commitment that extends well beyond graduation.
Alumni traveled from around the globe to partake in a full evening of events, celebrating milestones such as the 50th anniversary of Santa Clara Law’s study abroad program and the Ruffo Induction. Adding a unique touch to the occasion, Bay Area calligraphy artist Blanca Lewis engraved wine glasses for each alum present.
This gathering provided an opportunity for former students to reconnect, sharing experiences that deepened their ties. Many were introduced to peers from different graduating classes, fostering new connections born from shared histories. This networking often began at the welcoming table, where attendees quickly learned each other’s names and graduation years.
Among the stories exchanged, the infamous crossing of The Alameda sparked laughter and tales of past adventures. Many alumni marveled at the newly renovated law building, with some experiencing Charney Hall for the first time that evening. This blend of nostalgia and excitement contributed to an unforgettable reunion, celebrating both the past and future of the Law School community.
Assistant Dean for External Relations Teresa Kopriva welcomed attendees, stating, “We begin every special occasion with expressions of our collective gratitude. In that spirit, I’d like to kick off this very special Law Reunion gathering with a collective thanks.” She introduced Dean Emerita Anna Han, who encouraged alumni to reflect on their impactful moments at Santa Clara Law. “This reunion celebrates our shared experiences, our growth, and the countless contributions we’ve made to our profession and beyond,” she said. Dean Emerita Han also highlighted the school’s recent progress, noting the enrollment of over 250 talented and diverse first-year students, including the largest cohorts in innovative programs.
The keynote speaker for the class of 1974, John Bates, J.D. ’74, addressed the value of friendship, alongside the challenges and achievements faced by Santa Clara Law students. He remarked, “We aren’t all lawyers. We’ve pursued many different avenues, including business, government, entrepreneurship, nonprofits, politics, and education, to name just a few. Santa Clara Law School certainly gave us the tools and confidence to find our way. For that, we should be forever grateful.” Bates concluded by urging attendees to embrace the future with the same curiosity and courage that brought them to the reunion.
The ceremony then shifted focus to the Ruffo Inductees, who rose to take their places at the podium. Lisa Kloppenberg, Professor of Law and Special Assistant to the Vice President of University Relations, and Ash Farrington, Director of Development at Santa Clara Law, presented the inductees with the distinguished Ruffo medallion, marking a significant moment in their journeys. The Albert J. Ruffo Award, established by Dean Mack Player, honors Law School alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. Each year, members of this distinguished society are recognized at the Law Reunion Ceremony.
Named after Albert J. Ruffo, B.A. ’31, J.D. ’36, who attended Santa Clara University on a football scholarship, this award celebrates his remarkable legacy. After graduation, Ruffo coached various sports at SCU and later co-founded the San Francisco Forty-Niners. He served as mayor of San Jose and built a successful law practice before his passing on February 10, 2003, at the age of 95.
Ruffo inductees for this year included John Bates, J.D. ’74, Dionisio Macedo, J.D. ’74, Douglas “Doug” Barry, B.S. ’66, J.D. ’74, Lincoln Brooks, J.D. ’74, Paul Cole, J.D. ’74, Randy Reedy, J.D. ’74, Paul Schwartz, J.D. ’74, Mark Pierce, J.D. ’74, Jeffrey Barnett, J.D. ’74, and Jim Prosser, J.D. ’74, representing the class of 1974 and the incoming Ruffo Society class.
This year’s Law Reunion also marked the 50th anniversary of Santa Clara Law’s study abroad program, titled “Global Perspectives, Enduring Connections.” This milestone honored the program’s rich history and the global impact made by its alumni.
The 2024 Santa Clara Law Reunion was a resounding success, uniting graduates from various generations to celebrate their shared experiences and enduring bonds. As the evening concluded, it was evident that the Law School’s legacy of fostering legal excellence and community had been reaffirmed, inspiring future generations of attorneys to carry the torch forward. This reunion stood as a testament to the spirit of Santa Clara Law—a place where friendships are forged, knowledge is gained, and careers are launched.
Check out photos from Grand Reunion 2024 here.
Written by Daniel Zertuche, Amanda Murray, and Derrick Lonzo-Buhain, Student Writers for Santa Clara Law
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