The new initiative helps position law students for career success through the connections and commitment of Trojan alumni
The USC Gould School of Law has announced the establishment of the Marshall B. Grossman Mentorship Program, a new initiative that advances the career development and professional opportunities of Gould law students by leveraging the expansive Trojan alumni network.
The new program — named for late alumnus Marshall B. Grossman JD 1964 — connects JD students with experienced JD alumni mentors who provide personalized guidance and support. Already, the program has drawn significant interest and widespread participation, matching 116 JD alumni mentors with 121 Gould JD first-year students.
“The launch of the Marshall B. Grossman Mentorship Program marks the start of an exciting new chapter at our law school. It is a special initiative that brings together our Gould community,” said Dean Franita Tolson at the virtual kickoff event in November.
Tolson added: “The fact that we have so many participants as we launch the program speaks volumes about the strength of the Trojan Network and its unmatched dedication to one another. This program also fills an important need. We heard from students and alumni alike about their common desire to expand opportunities for mentorship.”
Benefits of the Grossman Mentorship Program range from informal meetings to formal law school events, including the Alumni Mentor Lunch and the Alumni Mock Interview Program. It is currently open to all 1L students, with plans to expand to all JD students and master’s students in future years.
About Marshall B. Grossman
Grossman was an accomplished attorney who practiced law for more than five decades, before retiring in 2019 from Orrick, Herrington, and Sutcliffe. He passed away in 2023.
Colleagues remember Grossman’s passion for service, often dedicating his time and experience to mentor generations of rising lawyers and helping them achieve success. This program honors Grossman’s legacy of leadership, thanks to the generous support of his family, noted Associate Dean of Career Services Robin Apodaca.
“I always believed that a true professional gives back to his or her calling much more than has been received,” Grossman wrote in his book, titled Marshall Law. “As a lawyer, I feel that I have been entrusted with the responsibility of serving as an example to the community at large and to those who follow me in my career.”
“I always enjoyed mentoring younger lawyers and have been grateful for what I have learned from them,” he wrote. “If I don’t share my knowledge and abilities, then I fail to repay the debts to those who came before me who extended help to me along the way.”
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