McGeorge School of Law had humble beginnings in 1924 as a single-room night school in downtown Sacramento, then known as Sacramento College of Law. From those modest origins, the school has evolved under the guidance of 10 visionary deans, each contributing to its journey from a small local institution to a prominent law school.
Verne Adrian McGeorge, Founder, 1924–1930
Verne Adrian McGeorge was the founding dean and professor of law. In 1929, the Board of Trustees renamed the school McGeorge College of Law in honor of its founder. The first commencement occurred just a year later in 1925, and the first woman graduated shortly after in 1927.
The contributions of the following successive deans, though less documented, were crucial in sustaining and advancing McGeorge School of Law’s esteemed legacy and setting the stage for future achievements:
- Russell Harris (1930–1933)
- Gilford Rowland (1933–1937)
- Lawrence Dowrety (1937 – WWII closure)
- John Swann (1946–1957)
Gordon D. Schaber, 1957–1991
In 1957, Gordon D. Schaber became dean. He held this role for 34 years. Under his leadership, McGeorge transformed from a local institution into a nationally recognized law school and became affiliated with the University of the Pacific in 1966. That same year, McGeorge moved to its permanent Oak Park location, now part of the vibrant 13-acre Sacramento campus.
Dean Schaber’s tenure was marked by key milestones: McGeorge gained full accreditation from the State Bar of California in 1964, affiliated with the University of the Pacific in 1966, and secured ABA accreditation in 1968. The school’s growth continued with AALS accreditation and Order of the Coif status. Schaber’s legacy also includes the establishment of McGeorge’s Community Legal Services, and externship programs, which have had a lasting impact on the Sacramento community.
Gerald Caplan, 1991–2002
Gerald Caplan was instrumental in establishing the Capital Center for Law and Policy. Located just 3.1 miles from the California Capitol Building, this Center has gained significant prominence under his leadership.
Elizabeth Rindskopf Parker, 2002–2012
During Elizabeth Rindskopf Parker’s tenure as dean, the Global Center for Business & Development was established, fostering engagement with the global legal community through significant international law research and active participation in transnational policymaking and education.
Francis J. “Jay” Mootz, 2012–2017
Under Francis J. Mootz III’s leadership, McGeorge School of Law introduced several innovative programs: the Master of Public Administration and the Master of Public Policy, and the Master of Science in Law. After his tenure as dean concluded, Mootz has continued to play a vital role at McGeorge as a professor, teaching Contracts, Sales, Insurance Law, Employment Law, and Critical Race Theory.
Michael Hunter Schwartz, 2017 – present
Dean Michael Hunter Schwartz, formerly dean of the William H. Bowen School of Law at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, assumed the role of McGeorge’s 10th dean in 2017. During his tenure, McGeorge School of Law received a significant gift in 2021, among the largest in U.S. legal education history. Dean Schwartz also served as interim provost for the University of the Pacific for one year amidst an interim presidency and the onset of the global pandemic.
McGeorge School of Law has since risen to new heights under Dean Michael Hunter Schwartz, who ranked as the 9th most influential person in legal education twice. A recognized national leader in legal education, Dean Schwartz achieved notable milestones at McGeorge, including the highest bar passage rate in 25 years, the establishment of the Honors Accelerated JD degree and various master’s programs, and enhancements to legal clinics and experiential learning. He also pioneered an alumni-student mentoring program, launched the Center for Inclusion and Diversity and the Military and Veteran Student Center at the Sacramento Campus, and bolstered recruitment efforts, culminating in a transformative gift benefiting future McGeorge students.
McGeorge School of Law’s transformation from a modest single-room night school in 1924 to a distinguished institution of legal education is a testament to the enduring vision and leadership of its ten deans. Each dean has played a pivotal role in shaping the school’s growth and reputation, guiding it from its humble beginnings to becoming a prominent and influential law school. As we look towards the future of McGeorge, we remain committed to expanding our programming and resources to better serve our students. This forward-looking approach ensures that McGeorge will continue to thrive, fostering the next generation of legal professionals and upholding its legacy of excellence.
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.