A Legacy of Firsts: Trailblazing Women Who Define Golden Gate University

Since our founding in 1901, Golden Gate University has been a beacon of opportunity for working adults—especially women who refused to wait their turn. From breaking barriers in law and public service to fighting for gender equity and human rights, the GGU community has always included extraordinary women leading the way. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we honor some of the fearless alumnae and leaders who continue to inspire future generations. 

Here are eight highlights of remarkable women who helped shape GGU’s legacy: 

1. Breaking Barriers: The Class of 1928

In 1928, the first two women graduated from GGU’s School of Law—marking a pivotal moment in the long road toward equality in the legal profession. At a time when women were still fighting for a seat at the table, these pioneers laid the foundation for generations to come.

2. Judy McKelvey: A Dean of Firsts

When Judy McKelvey became Dean of GGU’s School of Law in 1974, she was only the second woman in the nation to lead an ABA-accredited law school. During her tenure, she actively recruited women faculty and students, helped found California Women Lawyers, and elevated the law school to national recognition. As one peer said, “No one did more to advance women, either in legal education or in the practice of law, than Judy McKelvey.”

3. A Law School for Women, By Women

Under McKelvey’s leadership, GGU is one of the first law schools in California where women made up the majority of enrolled students—a transformative shift in legal education, reflecting GGU’s enduring role as a place where women lead.

4. Advocating for Working Women: The Women’s Employment Rights Clinic

Founded in 1993, GGU’s Women’s Employment Rights Clinic remains one of the few legal clinics in the country dedicated to representing low-wage and immigrant women workers. This award-winning in-house clinic empowers students to advocate for gender equity in the workplace—where it’s needed most.

5. Fiona Ma, CPA: California’s State Treasurer

GGU alumna Fiona Ma, CPA serves as California’s 34th State Treasurer, managing over $3 trillion in state and local government transactions. A fierce advocate for fiscal responsibility and infrastructure investment, she credits GGU for giving her the practical skills to lead at the highest levels of government.

6. Betty Yee: California’s Watchdog

As State Controller from 2015 to 2023, Betty Yee oversaw California’s financial operations and became a nationally respected voice on fiscal transparency and equity. A proud GGU graduate, she broke barriers as one of the highest-ranking Asian American women in state government.

7. Joan Blades: Digital Democracy Pioneer

Co-founder of MoveOn.org, Joan Blades (JD ’85) helped revolutionize online political activism. A serial entrepreneur and social innovator, her work has shaped conversations around civic engagement, family policy, and bridging political divides.

8. Julia Jeter Cleckley: General and Groundbreaker

GGU alumna Julia Jeter Cleckley (MS ‘85) made history as the first African American woman to attain the rank of general in the National Guard. Her leadership opened doors for women of color in the military and remains a powerful example of service and resilience.

And More Women GGU Alumnae Leading Globally: 

• Hanna Thompson (JD ‘13), member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic fencing team 

• Denise Phua Lay Peng, Mayor of Central Singapore and Member of Singapore Parliament 

• Cecilia Chung, internationally recognized LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS rights activist 

• Monique Morrow, former CTO of Cisco Systems 

• Diane Murphy (MBA), former child actress, known for sharing the role of “Tabitha” in Bewitched. 

• Mary Hayashi (MBA), first Korean-American woman to serve in the California State Legislature (2006-12) 

• Morgan Christen (JD ‘86), judge of the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit 

• Diana Becton (JD ‘85), former trial judge and currently both the first woman and first African American to be elected district attorney in the history of Contra Costa County in California. 

Looking Ahead 

From the courtroom to the Capitol, from Olympic arenas to global human rights platforms, GGU women continue to break ground, lift others, and lead with purpose. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate their legacy—and reaffirm our commitment to empowering the next generation of changemakers.