—By Malissa Barnwell-Scott
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
One thing I know for sure and believe many can attest to: Lisa Mead knows how to blaze a trail.
From her decision to become a social worker — a break from her families’ career path — to her journey as a law student, Lisa Mead had a vision not all could see. She truly wanted to make the world better, simply because she knew it could be and should be.
As a social worker, she saw the challenges and inequities in the lives of her clients. She went to law school with her eyes set on advancing equal justice under the law for all people.
It is so fitting that we celebrate Lisa’s contributions to USC Law at PILF’s 20th Anniversary celebration. As one of PILF’s first board members and grant recipients, she understands the importance of having a student organization focused on social justice.
After working at Public Counsel heading the homeless project, Lisa returned to the law school. Her collected experiences to that point confirmed how much she cares about people, especially those she works with.
This foundation led her to foster a student-centered perspective among the administration that has enhanced the law school experience for thousands of students — 9,000 to be exact.
Under Lisa’s leadership, what was affectionately known as the Career Services “closet” became the Career Services Office with more resources, staff and room for students to move around in. She created institutions ranging from welcome breakfasts and finals snacks to the orientation service project — promoting a spirit of student camaraderie and introduction to the service ethic at USC Law, and the 100-hour service competition among students and student organizations.
The range of pro bono and community service opportunities available to students has grown exponentially during her time here. Students can volunteer during their winter and spring breaks; they can clean up a school garden; they can even start a cross-town pro bono challenge with UCLA.
No one doubts leaders are created in law school, but Lisa asks the question, “What type of leaders are we creating?” Our office engages students to discover and fine-tune what service to others means to them. Together we have a created a path that empowers students, no matter their career choice, to create their own service projects, and become social justice advocates to the communities they serve.
I’ve known Lisa for a decade and worked closely with her since opening the Office of Public Service. Our time together has been of great triumph, hard work and a labor of love. It has truly been a pleasure to work with her in the most supportive, collaborative, creative working environment and team I’ve ever had the privilege to be part of.
Lisa, your legacy transcends the walls of the law school and is carried by the many students and alumni you have worked with. You are a leader, a mentor and I am proud to call you my friend. Thank you for all you have done these last 15 years. You will be missed.
As you move on to new opportunities, I encourage you to continue being your authentic self. Keep on blazing trails.
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