Christian W. Johnston (JD '99) Appointed General Counsel of Loma Linda University Health

Pepperdine Caruso Law alumnus Christian W. Johnston (JD '99) has been appointed general counsel of Loma Linda University Health. Johnston was the previous associate general counsel and served in Loma Linda University Health's legal office for 15 years.

Johnston shares, "I truly value the education I received at Pepperdine and how it has prepared me for this new role." He is a past recipient of the Pepperdine Law Review's prestigious Ronald M. Sorenson Memorial Writing Award.

Excerpt from the announcement of the president of Loma Linda University Health:

Chris brings an extensive background as an attorney, both within our organization and across the broader Seventh-day Adventist community. In addition to his many years of service in LLUH's Office of General Counsel, Chris also served in the Department of Risk Management. Prior to his tenure at LLUH, Chris provided legal services to institutions affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, particularly in higher education and healthcare, and was also engaged in the private practice of law. His academic credentials include a Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University School of Law, a Master of Arts in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts from La Sierra University. During his time at Pepperdine, he was recognized for academic excellence and served as a Lead Articles Editor on the Pepperdine Law Review. Beyond his formal training, Chris has remained actively engaged in professional and institutional service, contributing to legal, governance, and risk-management efforts across LLUH as well as other non-profit organizations. He is a much sought-after lecturer on legal issues facing health care, education, and church-affiliated organizations.