Spring 2022 Commencement

On a perfect San Diego morning in the beautiful setting of the Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, faculty, staff, students, guests, family, and friends gathered for the 116th California Western School of Law Commencement Ceremony on April 29th .

Dean Sean Scott welcomed students and attendees, grateful to be able to celebrate the event in person, and was honored to welcome Priscilla Alfaro ‘22 as Student Commencement Speaker and San Diego Superior Court Judge, The Honorable Michael D. Washington ‘94, a distinguished public defender for nearly 30 years, as Commencement Speaker.

After several online graduation ceremonies, it was a joyous occasion to gather in person.

“Now, as we graduate today and move into our careers, may we all remember that Cal Western prepared us to think like lawyers, but also encouraged us to think like human beings, to demonstrate compassion, to maintain our integrity as we navigate the gray areas of the law, and most importantly to take care of ourselves. Because our best self will be the one that creates change. ” Priscilla Alfaro ’22 Student Commencement Speaker

Congratulations #CWSLClassof2022

“I want you to unleash the power that you have to help improve the lives of others so that they can find justice in the world.”

“Change your mind about what your own powers are because the truth is that there is no glass ceiling that can stop your rise to the top unless you allow yourself to yield to the perception of the power of a glass ceiling.”

“…start today by learning to discern the difference between knowledge and truth; know that knowledge is but a tool to lead you to the truth.”

“And finally, there is no imposter syndrome that can erase your uniqueness in value unless you allow yourself to be erased by the perceived power of people that don’t think that you matter.” The Honorable Michael D. Washington ’94 Commencement Speaker