A Note from the Dean
I officially began serving as Dean on January 12. On February 16, the school publicly announced this leadership transition. Prior to that announcement, I wrote directly to our graduates so they would hear the news from us first.
Lincoln Law School of San Jose exists to offer an affordable, flexible path for working adults and nontraditional students to become practice-ready lawyers who strengthen their communities. That mission has guided the school for more than a century. It guides our decisions today.
As we move forward, it is helpful to begin with clarity about the principles that define Lincoln and the work we are building together.
Our Core Values
Our Core Values are published on our website and reflect the commitments that have shaped Lincoln Law School for more than a century.
Access to Justice and Opportunity
Legal education should be within reach for hardworking adults. Our evening program and supportive learning culture make the path to a J.D. attainable.
Community Service and Impact
Our students and graduates strengthen San José and the communities of the greater Silicon Valley.
Persistence and Grit
Our students balance careers, families, service, and study. Their determination shapes Lincoln’s culture.
Integrity and Professional Ethics
We prepare graduates to practice law with honesty, accountability, and respect.
Belief in Human Potential
We recognize that talent and commitment are not defined by pedigree.
Practice‑Ready Learning
Our curriculum emphasizes practical skills and real‑world application.
Affordability and Stewardship
We strive to keep tuition affordable and manage resources responsibly.
Inclusion and Belonging
Lincoln reflects the diversity of Silicon Valley and cultivates a welcoming environment.
These values can be discovered on our website and guide the work described in this issue of The Fuller View.
A Class Defined by Resilience
On May 9, we will gather at the Garden House in Los Altos to celebrate this year’s graduating class. This is the same venue that hosted the 2024 ceremony, and it is a fitting place to honor a remarkable group of students. We are extraordinarily proud of them.
These graduates have completed their legal education during a challenging period in Lincoln’s history. They have balanced careers, family responsibilities, and demanding coursework while navigating a period of transition for the school. They have shown resilience, discipline, and commitment to the legal profession. We could not be prouder of what they have accomplished.
We are honored that San Jose Chief of Police Paul D. Joseph has accepted our invitation to serve as keynote speaker for this year’s commencement. His leadership in our community reflects the values of service and responsibility that define the legal profession.
Dorothy Greaux‑Spear, an alumna who publishes the Lincoln Alumni and Friends Newsletter, has been deeply involved with Registrar Kim Zea and our staff in planning this year’s event.
Generations Investing Forward
This year’s Giving Tuesday campaign raised $46,700. More meaningful than the number was the spirit behind it.
Jack Risso ('75), Dean Mary Fuller, and Board Chairman Bill Long.
Jack Risso, Class of 1975, came to campus to ensure his gift would directly support a graduating student. Larry Ince, Class of 1974, made sure Lincoln remained part of his legacy as well. We are proud of our graduates from the 1970s who are investing in students graduating in 2026.
Going forward, Lincoln will anchor two annual giving moments each year: one at Graduation and one on Giving Tuesday in December.
In the coming days, you will receive a letter from Registrar Kim Zea outlining this year’s Graduation Giving Campaign.
Engaging the Profession: March 18 MCLE Event
Lincoln will host a FREE one‑hour California Competence MCLE program open to our students and to the broader legal community.
When: March 18, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., followed by a brief reception
What: “Developing Your Professional Brand: Reputation, Emotional Intelligence & Wellness as Competence”
Where: Lincoln Law School of San Jose, 384 S. 2nd Street, San Jose, CA 95113
Presented by: Sal Torres, Esq., Assistant General Counsel at SoFi Technologies, former Daley City Mayor, and Certified Emotional Intelligence Coach
Parking: Parking is available directly across the street, or a half block away at 2nd and San Carlos Street where the first 90 minutes are free.
This program will explore how professional reputation, communication under pressure, and sustainable practice habits shape long‑term credibility in the legal profession.
We are excited to welcome Lincoln alumni, friends of the school, and members of the San Jose legal community to join our students for this event.
If you would like to join us, please REGISTER BY CLICKING HERE.
Mentorship: Building the Lincoln Village
One of my early priorities has been establishing a mentorship program.
As we build toward Fall 2026 enrollment, our goal is to welcome no fewer than 25 new students into the entering class. Success will mean that every new student is paired with a mentor; e.g., one practicing attorney for every entering Lincoln student.
Alumni who are willing to mentor a student in the next entering class are invited to contact:
Alma Zermeno, Assistant Registrar
studentservices@lincolnlawschool.edu
408‑479‑3592
Building the Fall 2026 Class
We are actively recruiting for Fall 2026.
Many Lincoln students first learn about the school because someone tells them it is possible to attend law school while continuing to work and support their families. If you are willing to help share Lincoln’s mission with prospective students or community groups, we welcome your involvement.
A Clinic in Action
This semester we are piloting a Habeas Corpus Clinic.
Fourth‑year student Janaya Sanchez‑Trotter is working under the supervision of Carrie LeRoy, who is providing her expertise pro bono. Carrie brings substantial experience in habeas matters and has already achieved meaningful outcomes for her clients.
On Bar Preparation
Bar success remains central to our mission.
Many of our recent graduates sat for the California Bar Examination last week. We extend our respect and encouragement to each of them and are continuing to evaluate how Lincoln can strengthen bar preparation support for future students.
Closing Reflection
Lincoln’s purpose is steady.
When determined adults are given an attainable pathway to legal education, families gain stability, communities gain advocates, and access to justice expands.
I am grateful to be doing this work alongside you.
Mary Fuller
Dean
Lincoln Law School of San Jose
San Jose’s Law School™
