Helped Clients Recover Over $25 Billion. Since 1979.
Helped Clients Recover Over $25 Billion. Since 1979.
Lynn Schenk’s career exemplifies a commitment to public service, law, and advocacy. As the first woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from San Diego; former Chief of Staff to Governor Gray Davis; California Secretary of Business, Transportation, and Housing; and private sector attorney, Lynn plays a crucial role at the Schenk Law Firm in helping set the firm’s overall strategy, advising on government relations, public policy, and business community engagement.
A Pioneer for Women’s Rights
In 1972, Lynn co-founded the Lawyers Club of San Diego, the leading industry advocate for gender equality in San Diego. Schenk continues to advocate for gender equality and remains a prominent figure in legal reforms and public service. In 2002, Lynn Schenk was the recipient of the University of San Diego School of Law Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest honor bestowed upon one of the more than 17,000 members of the law school’s alumni association.
Political and Legal Contributions
Lynn Schenk’s political career includes serving as Chief of Staff to California Governor Gray Davis, where she managed over 75 state departments and agencies. As a United States Congresswoman, she was instrumental in shaping U.S.-Mexico border policies, including the creation of the SENTRI lane, which improved border crossings for millions of commuters. Her groundbreaking contributions to biotechnology and high-speed rail earned her the title of “Mother” of California High Speed Rail.
Private and Public Sector Leadership
Schenk previously served on the Board of Directors for Sempra Energy and Biogen, two Fortune 500 companies, as well as the Scripps Research Institute and the San Diego Consortium for Regenerative Medicine. She is currently a member of the:
Educational Background and White House Fellow
Lynn Schenk holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of San Diego School of Law, with postgraduate work in international law at the London School of Economics. Early in her career, Schenk was selected as a White House Fellow by President Ford, serving as a special assistant to Vice Presidents Nelson Rockefeller and Walter Mondale. This experience provided her with profound insights into national policymaking, shaping her future contributions to both state and federal governance.
Leadership within Schenk Law Firm
At the Schenk Law Firm, Lynn applies her vast legal, political, and corporate leadership experience to help the firm set its policy and litigation strategies. She advises on complex legal matters in sectors like healthcare and biotechnology, as well as corporate governance, ensuring that the Schenk Law Firm remains at the forefront of innovative legal solutions.
A Legacy of Impact
Lynn Schenk’s contributions to law, politics, and advocacy have left an indelible mark on both the state of California and the nation. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower future generations, cementing her status as one of the most influential attorneys and public servants of her time.
Position: Of Counsel Attorney