The Colleges of Law to Celebrate Class of 2025 at 51st Commencement Ceremony in Santa Barbara

The Colleges of Law will celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2025 on Saturday, April 26, where 64 graduates who have completed rigorous legal studies while balancing careers, families and community responsibilities will be recognized.

Assembly member Jacqui Irwin, who represents California’s 42nd Assembly District, will deliver the keynote address. A longtime public servant and former mayor, Irwin has championed key initiatives in education, public safety, and veterans’ affairs, making her a fitting voice to honor a new generation of legal changemakers.

“We are living in a moment when the legal system is being tested in profound ways – socially, politically, and morally,” said Dr. Matthew Nehmer, President of The Colleges of Law. “Our graduates are stepping into this landscape with not only a strong legal education, but with diverse lived experiences, resilience, and a deep commitment to justice. All of these are qualities that will shape the judicial system for years to come.”

The Colleges of Law was founded to bring accessible and affordable quality legal education to students who possess the passion, bravery, and intellectual rigor to pursue a legal degree – regardless of their social standing or professional background. The college offers Juris Doctor (J.D.), Hybrid J.D., and Master’s of Business, Law, and Technology programs that combine academic rigor, convenience, and real-world practicality. For over 55 years, The Colleges of Law’s commitment to community involvement ensures that students not only gain academic knowledge but actively contribute to the betterment of society through legal clinics, pro bono work, and partnerships with local organizations.

Graduates represent a wide range of backgrounds and life experiences, reflecting the institution’s mission to make legal education accessible to all who have the passion and purpose to pursue it. The featured student speaker will be Jill Ashcraft, who transitioned from a career in healthcare and technology to pursue law, won over the selection committee with her powerful message on preparation, purpose and carrying forward the torch of justice.

“Commencement is more than a celebration of academic achievement, it’s a powerful reminder of the role institutions like The Colleges of Law play in shaping ethical, community-minded leaders,” said Dr. Michael Horowitz, Chancellor of The Community Solution Education System, which includes The Colleges of Law. “We are proud to support a law school that is deeply committed to access, equity, and public service, values that resonate across our System.”

Law school applications are up 20 percent nationwide, according to recent data from the Law School Admission Council, and The Colleges of Law is seeing that momentum reflected locally. Its own J.D. applications are up 7 percent compared to last year, and Master’s program applications are also trending upward. Experts point to rising civic engagement, political polarization, and economic uncertainty as key drivers behind the surge, with more individuals seeking purpose-driven careers that can make a tangible impact.

The 51st commencement ceremony will take place at 9:30 a.m. PT on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.