Linda Starr
Earlier today, our wonderful colleague, Linda Starr, announced her phased retirement from full-time teaching and administration at Santa Clara Law beginning on August 1. “It’s hard to imagine Santa Clara Law without Linda’s regular presence. She is an exemplar of our social justice mission and our commitment to providing students with a transformative learning experience,” said Dean Kaufman. He continued, ” Her impact is immeasurable–she is a beloved teacher and legal educator, a renowned scholar, and a steadfast advocate for her clients. I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Linda for her countless hours of dedicated service to our entire community and recall with awe and appreciation the legacy that she has left for us to carry forward.”
Read Linda’s heartfelt message to our faculty, staff, and students:
Dear Colleagues,
I want to let you know that after 22 years of guiding NCIP, I will be starting a phased retirement, stepping out of my full-time role as Clinical Professor and Executive and Legal Director, effective August 1, and working part-time.
Kathleen “Cookie” Ridolfi and Linda Starr at the 20th NCIP Anniversary Celebration.
When Cookie and I started NCIP, we did not imagine what it would become. I am in awe of how much the brilliant, tenacious, tireless staff has accomplished, and the compassion and heart they demonstrate daily. Our passionate students have taught me so much and I have been humbled by the commitment and thoughtfulness of our supporters. And to our clients, who, with their resilience, insistent quest and demand for justice, kindness, and grace, have shown us all the triumph of the human spirit – I express my deepest respect and gratitude for allowing me to be part of their remarkable lives.
Glenn Payne gets a hug from Linda Starr, executive director of Northern California Innocence Project, outside the Santa Clara County Hall of Justice Courthouse on Friday, Jan. 26, 2018.
NCIP has obtained the freedom of 35 wrongfully convicted people, sponsored many significant pieces of legislation, published influential research reports, and educated hundreds of students. And all this has happened with the support of this incredible law school and university. Every NCIP achievement is the shared accomplishment of this caring, supportive, and committed community we have the privilege to be a part of.
NCIP will continue under strong, veteran leadership as Paige Kaneb and Melissa “Missy” O’Connell J.D. ’03 will serve as Interim Legal Directors of NCIP, and Todd Fries J.D. ’09, NCIP’s Associate Director, will become the Executive Director. Together they will create a shared vision for NCIP moving forward. I will remain in a part-time role for at least the next academic year, and will of course always stay involved with NCIP any way that I can.
I am excited to see how NCIP evolves and continues its important work. Thank you for your support of NCIP and for your friendship and guidance. I look forward to celebrating NCIP’s continued success with you at the Justice For All Gala on October 5.
With love,
Linda Starr
Watch Linda’s speeches:
