Summer Connection Series: Pepperdine Applauds the Class of 2020

Nothing could or would stop the Pepperdine Caruso Law Class of 2020. Literally nothing. Fire, flood, and international pandemic could not prevent this class from earning their Juris Doctor, Master of Dispute Resolution, and Master of Laws degrees. The Class of 2020 has demonstrated the grit and perseverance demanded of the legal professional, and we have no doubt in their futures of excellence. This year, we are proud to recognize the 140 JD, 24 MDR, and 13 LLM graduates of Pepperdine Caruso School of Law.

Although we were unable to celebrate in person, the entire Caruso Law community applauds this year's graduating class for their accomplishments. On Friday, May 8, one week before their originally scheduled graduation, students, staff, and faculty convened on Zoom for a special live and personal 3L celebration brunch. With record brevity, Professor Steve Schultz delivered his annual and much-anticipated student address. Graduating student Marcy Kuo pre-recorded a stunning performance of "The Prayer" by Celine Dion and "Hero" by Mariah Carey that accompanied a touching slideshow tribute to the many memories made in and out of the classroom over three years. Student speaker Shantal Razban-Nia shared, "Events like these are what make Pepperdine so special."

Then, on May 11, the Straus Institute held a graduation celebration online, and graduates from all over the world joined, including from as far as Korea, Brazil, and even South Africa. Straus' Managing Director, Professor Sukhsimranjit Singh offered opening remarks welcoming the graduates, staff and students shared their favorite memories, and Professor Tom Stipanowich closed the celebration, sending the graduates off with a benediction.

Pepperdine Caruso Law eagerly anticipates the day in which we can gather in person to formally honor the accomplishments of the Class of 2020. But until that day comes, our prayer is that we continue to support one another and advance our mission using the attributes that define who we are and the work we do: our collective courage, creativity, character, compassion, and conviction. We hope to spotlight such Waves of Excellence through the Summer Connection Series.

The Summer Connection series will serve as a thread between our students, both incoming and current, graduates, and faculty as we highlight your endeavors and accomplishments while we navigate our changing lives. If you are a graduate with a new job, clerkship, fellowship, or have decided to pursue an LLM, please send your news to comm@law.pepperdine.edu. You can also connect with us on social media @pepperdinelaw