The former U.S. Second Gentleman returns to his alma mater, bringing three decades of legal experience and leadership.
The USC Gould School of Law has announced that Douglas Emhoff (JD 1990), accomplished attorney and former Second Gentleman of the United States, will join the faculty as Distinguished Visiting Professor of Law. Emhoff, a USC Gould alumnus who also serves as a partner in the global law firm of Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, will start July 1.
“It is great to be back home in Los Angeles, and I am excited and honored to return to USC Gould, where my legal journey began,” Emhoff said. “In Washington, I had the privilege of not just serving as Second Gentleman, but also serving as a professor to law students at Georgetown University. One of the best parts of my time as Second Gentleman was spending time with these students and young people all around the country — so I look forward to continuing to share my experiences with the next generation and hearing from them in the vibrant academic community at USC.”
Emhoff continued: “In this difficult moment for the legal community, I believe it is more important than ever to instill in the next generation of lawyers the same principles that drove me to the legal profession: the imperative of speaking out on behalf of the vulnerable, standing up for the rule of law, defending every citizen’s fundamental rights, and always fighting for justice, without fear or favor.”
Emhoff’s appointment underscores USC Gould’s commitment to providing students access and opportunities to learn from faculty who are renowned leaders at the forefront of legal practice. With a professional background whose work intersects private practice, public service and higher education, Emhoff offers unique insight into the current professional landscape and the role of lawyers in our society and democracy.
During his tenure as Second Gentleman, Emhoff represented the Biden-Harris Administration around the country and in diplomatic engagements around the world. Emhoff led the Administration’s efforts to combat antisemitism and other forms of hate, including the development of the first-ever National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism; advocated for equal access to legal aid and the removal of legal barriers in the justice system; promoted small businesses and the arts; convened religious leaders for interfaith dialogues; and advanced U.S. sports diplomacy efforts, including by representing the United States at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris and the 2023 Women’s World Cup in New Zealand. And, throughout the 107 days of Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign, he crisscrossed the nation campaigning for his wife, engaging with diverse communities, building coalitions, and speaking on behalf of her historic campaign.
Prior to his public service, Emhoff spent more than three decades as a lawyer, advising companies and leaders in business and technology hubs worldwide, managing high-profile disputes and solving complex problems across entertainment, media, sports, technology and business.
Throughout the years, Emhoff has played an active role in the life of USC’s law school. He has dedicated his time and effort to mentor USC Gould students, taken part in the annual Mentor Luncheon and mock interviews, and supported and guided new grads in their professional pursuits. He also remains active in numerous civic engagement and local community efforts.
“We are thrilled to welcome Doug Emhoff back to USC Gould as a member of our faculty,” said Franita Tolson, USC Gould Dean and Carl Mason Franklin Chair in Law. “His extensive legal expertise, coupled with his commitment to public service, will elevate our students’ learning experience and enrich our scholarly environment.”
Emhoff earned his JD from USC Gould in 1990 and BA from CSU Northridge in 1987. He previously taught entertainment law and alternative dispute resolution as adjunct professor at Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C.
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