PSBR founding partner and Southwestern Law School alumnus Brian Panish delivered the keynote address at the 107th annual Southwestern Law School Commencement Ceremony. Speaking to the Class of 2022, Mr. Panish emphasized the power of grit and perseverance, encouraged graduates to network, and to remain true to themselves and to their faith in the law. The ceremony was held at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.
WATCH BRIAN DELIVER THE KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Mr. Panish graduated from Southwestern Law School in 1984 and has been a consistent supporter of the school ever since. In 2017, he established the Panish Civil Justice Program, the goal of which is to provide top litigation training to students, creating a crossroads for the judicial bench and bar, and strengthen the foundations of the American civil justice system.
In 2021, Mr. Panish and fellow alumnus and friend Walter M. Yoka ’80 joined forces and combined their passions for civil justice and Southwestern Law School by creating the Yoka-Panish Civil Justice Fellowship. The $300,000 endowment places IL students in two five-week civil litigation externships (one Plaintiff, one Defense). Yoka-Panish Fellows participate for academic credit and a generous $4,000 stipend. It can be challenging for 1Ls to get placements – this program was created for them. Getting this type of experience in your first summer of law school sets a priceless foundation for career success. These fellowships are expected to begin in Summer 2023 – students apply in the second semester of their first year.