A man teaches in front of students.
Justice Anthony M. Kennedy (ret.) taught Constitutional Law at McGeorge School of Law for more than 50 years.

Justice Anthony M. Kennedy (ret.) has been a foundational figure at the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law for over 50 years. As a long-time supporter and faculty of the Summer Salzburg program and a professor of Constitutional Law and Comparative Free Speech at McGeorge, Justice Kennedy’s influence is still strongly seen today.

Justice Kennedy graduated from McClatchy High School in 1954 and pursued his undergraduate studies at Stanford University, where he developed a passion for constitutional law. He graduated with honors in political science in 1958, after also studying at the London School of Economics. Justice Kennedy earned his law degree cum laude from Harvard Law School in 1961 and served in the California Army National Guard from 1961-1962.

Justice Kennedy worked in private practice in San Francisco and Sacramento, eventually taking over his father’s law practice. In 1965, he joined the faculty at the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, where he taught as a Professor of Law for over 54 years. Kennedy’s tenure at McGeorge was marked by his dedication to teaching and mentoring law students, and he continued to teach in the school’s European summer sessions in Salzburg, making him the longest-serving faculty member in McGeorge’s history.

Justice Kennedy’s judicial career began with his appointment to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in 1975, where he became the youngest federal appellate judge in the country. His case-by-case approach and polite demeanor earned him respect, and in 1988, he was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court. Known as a swing vote, Justice Kennedy authored significant opinions on individual rights, including the landmark decisions in Planned Parenthood v. Casey, Romer v. Evans, Boumediene v. Bush, and Obergefell v. Hodges.

Justice Kennedy retired from the Supreme Court on July 31, 2018, leaving a legacy of advocacy for individual freedoms and a lasting impact on the McGeorge School of Law community.

Justice Kennedy’s impact can be felt throughout Sacramento. The Anthony M. Kennedy American Inn of Court, an organization of judges, justices, law professors, attorneys, and law students dedicated to professionalism, ethics, civility, and excellence in the legal profession is located on the Sacramento Campus. The Inn has won more honors from the National Inn of Court than any other in the United States.

In 2021, McGeorge partnered with the Justice Anthony M. Kennedy Library and Learning Center. Housed in the Robert T. Matsui United States Courthouse, the center’s mission is to foster respect for the rule of law and spotlight the independent judiciary’s role in protecting the constitutional and civil rights of all people.

Additionally, thanks to a generous gift from the Angelo and Sofia Tsakopoulos Family Foundation, the law school established the Anthony M. Kennedy Endowed Chair, which is currently held by McGeorge Professor Leslie Gielow Jacobs, an expert on First Amendment Law. Parker White, ’80, further honored Justice Kennedy’s time at McGeorge with the creation of the Anthony M. Kennedy Endowed Fellow Scholarship Fund, supporting the Kennedy Fellows program by offering full-tuition scholarships.


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast community member network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law community members.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

A man poses for a photo.
Doug Johnson, ’00, serves on the McGeorge Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Douglas L. Johnson, ’00, is an internationally recognized entertainment lawyer known for handling high-profile litigation for industry talent, including producers, actors, directors, writers, and musicians. Recognized for resolving royalty and profit participation disputes, right of publicity cases, and theft of idea claims, he also handles privacy invasion, libel, sexual harassment, business disputes, and novel class actions. Johnson is also a member of the McGeorge School of Law Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Johnson has been named a top intellectual property litigator by Super Lawyer for over a decade, placing him in the top 2.5 percent in Southern California. The Daily Journal awarded him one of the Top 2020 Verdicts for his $10 million jury verdict and $7 million in legal fees against Coca-Cola and Monster Energy in a right of publicity case.

Johnson frequently writes on industry issues and speaks on educational panels. Johnson has written over 30 articles on entertainment and intellectual property law and regularly speaks on panels discussing those topics. Since 2012, he has been an adjunct professor at Southwestern School of Law, teaching Entertainment and Media Litigation.

His experience includes serving as outside general counsel for WorldStarHipHop.com, where he handled cutting-edge copyright and privacy issues. Johnson co-founded Johnson & Johnson and has been instrumental in developing California’s right of publicity laws, regularly representing celebrities, models, and athletes in litigation against unauthorized use of their images. He has litigated up to the California Supreme Court, advocating for protective precedents and educating law students on these vital rights.


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

George F. Ogilvie III earned his J.D. from the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law in 1988. He has over three decades of leadership in his law firm, prestigious awards, handling complex construction litigation cases, and a strong commitment to public service.

As the Firm Managing Partner of McDonald Carano LLP, George leads a Nevada law firm with offices in Las Vegas, Reno, and Carson City, serving clients across Nevada and beyond. Under his leadership, McDonald Carano has remained a prominent independent firm, successfully navigating market pressures. In 2023, the firm received the “Battle Born” award at the Nevada Business Awards, and in 2024, it will celebrate its 75th Anniversary. George is one of only four Managing Partners in the firm’s history.

George F. Ogilvie III, is the managing partner of McDonald Carano LLP.

After joining the Clark County Public Defender’s Office in 1988 and handling high-profile capital murder cases, George joined McDonald Carano in 1992. He was promoted to Partner and Managing Partner of the Las Vegas office in 1994 and elected the Firm’s Managing Partner in 2019. He continues to serve in these executive roles, demonstrating strong leadership.

McDonald Carano has received notable awards under George’s leadership, including the “Partner in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” medallion from the State Bar of Nevada in 2023 and 2024, the Law Firm of the Year Award in 2024 from the Las Vegas Chapter of the National Bar Association (an association of predominantly Black lawyers, judges, law professors, and other legal professionals), and first-place recognitions in “Best Law Firm” and “Most Philanthropic Company” in the Best in Business Awards in 2023 and 2024.

George is highly ranked in Construction Litigation by Chambers USA, maintaining a Band 1 ranking for 12 consecutive years. His accolades include three “Lawyer of the Year” awards from The Best Lawyers in America and recognition in Vegas Inc. magazine and Mountain States Super Lawyers.

His legal expertise is evidenced by his successful handling of high-profile cases such as Project CityCenter, Planet Hollywood Towers, and the River Mountains Water Treatment Facility. He is a Charter Fellow of the Construction Lawyers Society of America.

George has also demonstrated a strong commitment to public service. He served as Chairman of the Colorado River Commission from 2009 to 2016 and is involved in several judicial and community service roles. His volunteer work includes serving on Eighth Judicial District Court committees, the Government Affairs Committee of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce, and the Nevada Museum of Art’s Board of Trustees. He has also supported pro bono legal work and financial support for the Public Interest Law Association at UNLV Boyd School of Law.


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

Gordian N. Hasselblatt, LLM ’95, is a partner at CMS Hasche Sigle in Cologne, Germany.

Gordian N. Hasselblatt, ’95, is a partner at CMS Hasche Sigle in Cologne, Germany. He has many years of experience and comprehensive expertise in intellectual property law. His journey started with legal studies at the Universities of Bonn and Hamburg. He later earned an LLM degree from the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law in 1995. By 1997, he had earned his Dr. iur degree, setting the stage for a career marked by skill and success.

Hasselblatt is highly respected for his deep knowledge in international trademark and design law, unfair competition law, press law, and cross-border litigation. He is especially valued for his expertise in trademark clearance, a vital service for international product launches. His strategic handling of extensive trademark and design portfolios shows his ability to manage complex intellectual property issues on a global level.

Beyond his legal practice, Hasselblatt has made significant contributions to the field through his writing.He is the author of numerous publications. His book, Community Design Regulation: An Article by Article Commentary, was named the Best Book on Design Law in 2020 by IPKat, the world’s most popular Intellectual Property Law blog.

Hasselblatt is also actively involved in key professional organizations. Hasselblatt is a member of McGeorge School of Law’s International Board of Advisors. He serves on the expert committee for trademark and competition law for the German Association for Intellectual Property and Copyright La. Hasselblatt is the Regional Director Europe for the World Law Group. He is also a member of the German Bar Association, International Trademark Association, the European Communities Trademark Association, the International Association for Intellectual Property Rights and Copyright Law, and the German American Lawyers Association.

Hasselblatt’s career is a testament to his dedication and expertise in intellectual property law. His work has not only boosted his own practice but has also made a significant impact on the legal community, both in Germany and internationally.


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

A man poses for a photo.
Bill Lockyer, ’86, spent over 30 years in the California Government.

The career of Bill Lockyer, ‘86, includes notable positions such as California’s Attorney General and State Treasurer, earning him national admiration.

Lockyer currently serves as of counsel in the Government Law & Strategies Practice Group at an Orange County firm, brings a wealth of experience to his high-stakes representation of businesses navigating the complex intersections of government, law, and politics.

Lockyer was elected as the California State Treasurer in November 2006 and served until 2014, being reelected in 2010 with a record-breaking number of votes. His political career began in 1973, when he won a State Assembly seat. Over the next 25 years, he served in both the Assembly and the Senate, where he was elected President Pro Tempore, the most powerful position in the California State Senate. Lockyer’s legislative legacy includes sponsoring California’s first hate crimes legislation in 1984, a statute he later coordinated the enforcement of as Attorney General.

Regarded as one of the most effective Attorneys General in California’s history, Lockyer led numerous national initiatives and joint enforcement actions. His peers elected him as President of the National Association of Attorneys General, marking him as the only Californian to hold this position. Lockyer’s role demanded both policy direction and managerial acumen, overseeing a State Department of Justice with 5,000 employees and a caseload of 100,000 lawsuits, akin to managing the seventh largest law firm in the U.S.

Lockyer earned his Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law, while already working in the California legislature by attending classes in his spare time. His insights and integrity in legal oversight are well-respected, and he continues to contribute to national publications such as the Los Angeles Times and the New York Times. Bill Lockyer’s distinguished career and dedication to public service make him a celebrated McGeorge alumnus.


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

The Hon. Craig Manson, ’87, served as a judge on the Superior Court of California for the County of Sacramento from 1998 to 2001.

The Hon. Craig Manson, ’87, built a remarkable career marked by dedication and hard work. His journey began in 1976 with his enlistment in the U.S. Air Force, where he served until 1989. During his time in the service, he earned a Bachelor of Science in International Affairs from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Northern Colorado. He later made history as the first Black editor-in-chief of the University of the Pacific Law Review at the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, where he completed a Juris Doctor degree.

Manson’s legal career started at Downey, Brand, Seymour, and Rohwer, where he worked as an attorney from 1989 to 1993. His expertise led to his role as general counsel for the California Department of Fish and Game, a position he held from 1993 to 1998. Following this, he served as a judge on the Superior Court of California for the County of Sacramento from 1998 to 2001.

In 2001, Manson was appointed as assistant secretary for fish, wildlife, and parks at the U.S. Department of the Interior. In this role, he influenced national policies on wildlife and natural resource conservation. He later worked as a senior policy advisor for Hunton & Williams, applying his extensive knowledge of public policy and administrative law.

Known for his perseverance and commitment, Manson also served as a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, demonstrating his dedication to national security and public service. His contributions to environmental conservation are among his proudest achievements, driven by his passion for protecting the earth.

Manson was motivated to pursue law by a desire to address societal issues. His active involvement in the student bar association, board of governors, and the University of the Pacific Law Review at McGeorge School of Law underscores his commitment to leadership and justice. Today, he continues to inspire with his dedication to public service and efforts to protect the environment.


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

Judge Michael G. Bowman, ’88.

Judge Michael G. Bowman, ’88, was honored as the Judge of the Year at the Sacramento County Bar Association’s Bench Bar Reception in April 2024. The annual award is given to a judge who has demonstrated commitment to enhancing the system of justice with fair and equitable administration of the court, has respected legal abilities, and is recognized for professional demeanor that includes lack of bias.

Bowman was appointed to the bench in 2013 by then-Gov. Jerry Brown. At the time, he was the first practicing criminal defense attorney to be appointed in decades. He recently completed two years of service as presiding judge of the Sacramento Superior Court.

“It is worth highlighting the groundbreaking nature of Governor Brown’s appointment of Judge Bowman to our court in 2013. Until then, it had been decades since a practicing criminal defense attorney had received such an appointment. That the distinction fell to Mike Bowman came as no surprise to anyone. With his easygoing manner, quick mind, and perhaps even quicker wit, he possessed a temperament that was widely understood as ideal for serving as a judicial officer. Suffice it to say, his appointment to our bench was universally applauded by all of us already serving,” said Justice Laurie Earl in a 2024 Sacramento Lawyer article. Earl is the presiding justice of the California’s Third District Court of Appeal.

A graduate of California Polytechnic Institute, Pomona and University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, Bowman started his legal career as a deputy district attorney in Kern County from 1988-91. Starting in 1992, he ran a private criminal defense firm for over 20 years. He handled cases ranging from DUIs to death penalty. During his years on the Sacramento bench, Bowman held a variety of assignments including criminal and civil trial courts and served as supervising judge of the court’s criminal division.

In 2019, Bowman was nominated and elected to the post of assistant presiding judge. He assisted then-Presiding Judge Russell Hom in effectively addressing the many challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic including mask mandates, distancing protocols, and initial Zoom deployments.

Bowman has mentored and supported a record number of new judicial officers who joined our bench during his tenure. During his term as presiding judge, Bowman welcomed 15 new judges and seven new court commissioners to the Court, the largest two-year influx of new judicial officers in any two-year period in the Court’s history.


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary.

Tim Long, ’88, is the co-managing shareholder of Greenberg Traurig.

Tim Long, ‘88, has deep experience litigating complex labor and employment issues, having served as lead counsel in multiple class, collective, and representative actions and advising on dozens more. Long is the co-managing shareholder of Greenberg Traurig’s Sacramento office. 

Long’s clients include a variety of financial institutions and entities, healthcare-related entities, airlines, retailers, high-tech companies, and transportation and logistics companies. Long also advises private investment funds and their partners in disputes concerning the management of funds, removal of non-performing members, and conflicts involving portfolio companies. 

He has litigated virtually every wage-and-hour issue there is, including exemption, incentive compensation, independent contractor, off-the-clock, meal and rest, pay practice, and PAGA claims. He has also litigated a wide variety of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims. Long has both prosecuted and defended employers in trade secrets and unfair business practices litigation.  

Long advises businesses on employment litigation and other types of claims. He litigates employment discrimination and wrongful termination claims, as well as matters involving trade secrets. He provides counsel on many corporate matters and often advises entertainment industry employers on emerging issues. 

Long also represents employers before state and federal administrative agencies, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), the California Department of Fair Employment & Housing (DFEH), the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE), and Employment Development Department (EDD). He also conducts workplace investigations and audits. 

Long is one of the few lawyers to have tried a class action to verdict, achieving a complete defense verdict, which he protected on appeal. He has also argued before several California Courts of Appeal, the California Supreme Court, the Washington State Supreme Court, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal, and has taken a case to the U.S. Supreme Court. 

Long is a cherished friend of the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, deeply involved in its community. He plays a vital role as an active member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, currently serving as vice president. Additionally, Long generously mentors first-year law students through the McGeorge Alumni Mentor Program. His firm, alongside Long himself, shows remarkable support for the Jeffrey K. Poilé Memorial Endowed Scholarship and various McGeorge events. Furthermore, Long dedicates his time to the OCI (On-Campus Interviews) Program, where he assists McGeorge students in honing their interview skills. 


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

Pat Lundvall, ‘89, graduated from McGeorge School of Law as valedictorian. Over the past three decades, her impressive legal career and unwavering commitment to public service and community involvement have distinguished her among McGeorge School of Law’s alumni.

Currently serving as a Partner at McDonald Carano LLP in Nevada, Lundvall chairs the firm’s statewide Commercial & Complex Litigation Practice Group. She holds dual board certifications in Civil Trial Law and Civil Practice Advocacy from the National Board of Trial Advocacy as well as certification as a Civil Trial Advocacy Specialist by the State Bar of Nevada, respectively, marking her as a trailblazer—the first attorney in Nevada to achieve such credentials.

Pat Lundvall, ’89, Partner at McDonald Carano LLP

Lundvall is the only woman attorney in the State of Nevada ranked in the highest Band 1 category in Commercial Litigation by Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business. The Commercial & Complex Litigation Practice that Lundvall chairs is also ranked Band 1 in Chambers, making her the only Band 1 ranked woman to lead a Band 1 ranked commercial litigation practice in Nevada.

Her accomplishments extend beyond legal practice. Lundvall is recognized as a Senior Fellow in the Litigation Counsel of America and co-founder of the Complex Commercial Litigation Institute. She has been celebrated in various publications, including Law.com and Of Counsel: The Legal Practice and Management Report, for her professional achievements and leadership in commercial litigation.

Lundvall’s impact reaches into public service, highlighted by her roles on the Nevada State Athletic Commission and advisory panel for the Nevada Department of Transportation, and philanthropy, highlighted by more than 20 years on the Board of Directors of Nevada Military Support Alliance. Her contributions have been acknowledged with numerous awards, including recognition as one of Southern Nevada’s most influential women in business and philanthropy.

Throughout her illustrious career, Lundvall has earned the highest accolades in legal peer reviews and rankings, including AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating by Martindale-Hubbell and repeated listings in Mountain States Super Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America.

Her dedication to excellence and service was underscored by receiving the prestigious President’s Award from the National Board of Trial Advocacy for her pivotal role in securing a landmark legal victory. Her success in Fremont Emergency Services vs. UnitedHealth Group set records for its significant impact on contract law, resulting in a jury verdict awarding $60 million in punitive damages and $2.7 million in compensatory damages to her client, plus attorney’s fees and costs. This victory is recognized as the largest in Nevada and the largest in Contract Law in ALM’s Top 25 Verdicts report covering the 13-state western United States region in 2021.

Another of Lundvall’s high-profile litigations includes her success in California State Franchise Tax Board v. Hyatt. Following a complete defense victory, the Court awarded her client $2 million in recoverable costs in 2022, representing a celebratory conclusion to more than 24 years of litigation in a case that also overturned U.S. Supreme Court precedent dating back to 1979.

Lundvall’s contributions to law, community, and professional leadership continue to set a standard of excellence. As McGeorge School of Law celebrates its 100-year anniversary, Lundvall will be celebrating her 30-year anniversary at McDonald Carano LLP.


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

A city attorney serves as chief legal counsel for a city. They provide legal guidance to city officials, departments, and agencies, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. Their responsibilities include drafting laws, reviewing contracts, and representing the city in litigation. City attorneys also manage legal risks, uphold ethical standards, and contribute to public policy decisions. Their role is vital in maintaining the legality and integrity of municipal operations and governance. 

McGeorge School of Law proudly celebrates the impressive achievement of having six alumni currently serving their communities as city attorneys. 

Dean R. Derleth, ‘92 (Corona, CA)

Derleth has served as Corona’s City Attorney since 2001, including in-house since 2012. He previously spent 20 years at Best Best & Krieger LLP, serving as City Attorney, General Counsel and special counsel for cities and public agencies throughout the state. He also enjoyed serving in various roles for the firm, including the founding Managing Partner for its Los Angeles office, Managing Partner for its Irvine office, and the firm-wide Municipal Law Practice Group Leader. He started his career at BB&K after being hired through McGeorge’s Career Development Office as a Summer Intern in 1991.

 

Mara W. Elliott, ‘94 (San Diego, CA) 

Elliott made history as the first woman, mother, and Latina elected as the San Diego City Attorney. She is nationally recognized for her leadership in preventing gun violence and her advocacy for victims of domestic violence.

 

Sarah Knecht, ‘88 (Santa Barbara, CA) 

Knecht has been serving as Santa Barbara’s city attorney since 2022. In 2023, she was appointed interim city administrator during the city’s nationwide search. 

 

Jonathan P. Hobbs, ’96 (Elk Grove, CA)

Hobbs became Elk Grove’s City Attorney in 2016. Prior to this, he was a shareholder at the Sacramento-based law firm of Kronick, Moskovitz, Tiedemann & Girard, primarily representing cities and other public agencies.

 

Michelle M. Sheidenberger, ‘97 (Roseville, CA) 

Sheidenberger has served as Roseville’s city attorney since 2021, recognized for her adept management of the city’s shift to district-based elections. 

 

William A. Vaughn, ‘81 (Los Banos, CA) 

Vaughn has been the city attorney of Los Banos since 2003, bringing extensive experience in child custody, malpractice, and general law practice. 

 

 


Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.   

Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary. 

Disclaimer: If you believe you should be featured in this blog but are not, it’s possible your information wasn’t up-to-date in our records. Please update your details in the alumni directory by filling out the form: https://mcgeorge.wufoo.com/forms/z1ytl8b20dz7e78/