The career of R. Marilyn Lee, ‘79, is a testament to her groundbreaking achievements and dedicated service across various fields. A graduate of UC Santa Barbara in 1969 with a B.A. in Political Science, Lee continued her education at the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, earning her J.D. in 1977. At the law school, she contributed to the University of the Pacific Law Review as a legislative review staff member.
Lee’s professional journey began in Washington, D.C., where she worked in congressional offices before transitioning to legal practice. She spent two years as a prosecutor and three years as a civil employment lawyer and civil rights defender for the City of Los Angeles. Her legal career paved the way for her entry into the media industry.
In 1986, Lee joined Times Mirror, the parent company of the Los Angeles Times, as Director of Human Resources. Her exceptional work led to her promotion to Vice President of Human Resources in 1992, and she later became Vice President of Public Affairs in 1996. Lee’s role involved overseeing operations in over 20 states and managing various media outlets, including newspapers, television stations, and book companies. She also co-founded the Minority Editorial Training Program (METPRO) to enhance newsroom diversity, a program that continues to benefit the industry.
Lee was the first woman to become a Vice President of the Los Angeles Times, where she managed a department of 220 employees and ensured the Times’ continued operation during significant events like the 1992 riots following the Rodney King trial and the 1994 Northridge earthquake.
In addition to her professional achievements, Lee has been deeply involved in her alma mater and various non-profits. She served on the UCSB Alumni Association Board of Directors from 1982 to 1989, and was the first woman from UCSB elected to the UC Board of Regents, serving from 1986 to 1988. She has also been involved with numerous non-profits, including the UC Press Foundation, California State Summer School for the Arts, Los Angeles Times Fund, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Las Angelitas del Pueblo (Olvera Street).
Marilyn Lee’s career is marked by her trailblazing roles, commitment to diversity, and extensive contributions to both her professional field and community service.
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.