Whitney Named Fresno Alumnus of the Year

Marshall Whitney ‘78 received the Fresno Alumnus of the Year award for his contributions to the legal field and service to the community.

The award was presented last month at the Fresno Alumni Association’s annual reception. This year’s reception was held at Baker, Manock & Jensen. Recipients of the award are chosen for their excellence in the law profession, corporate and public service.

“I am honored to have graduated from UC Law SF. It’s one of the finest legal institutions I could ever have imagined going to,” Whitney said. “The professors, the 65 Club, 198 McAllister, there is a lot to look back on. But the most important thing I took away from that time at UC Law SF, is the great scholarship and friendship.”

Whitney’s contribution to the legal field is extensive. He has served as a member of the Mandatory Fee Advisory Committee to the State Bar; participated in the Early Neutral Evaluation Program for the United States District Court, Eastern District of California; and, he is a former member of the American Arbitration Association panel of arbitrators. He is currently a member of the Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct.

Nolan Kane ’12 delivered opening remarks. Chancellor and Dean David Faigman also offered remarks.

Justice Stephen J. Kane ‘76 delivered a speech introducing Whitney, where he recalled how the two worked in offices next to one another early on in their respective careers.

“In that time, I came to admire Marshall’s for his intellect, his work ethic and I especially liked his self-deprecating sense of humor,” Kane said. “Marshall was a very talented lawyer early on.

“He’s earned a reputation as an outstanding litigation and trial lawyer. His reputation now extends beyond Fresno and the San Joaquin Valley,” Kane said.

Before founding Whitney, Thompson & Jeffcoach in 2018, Whitney worked at McCormick Barstow LLP where he tried more than 50 jury and court trials in both state and federal court, arbitrated numerous protracted and complex business disputes, and has represented attorneys before the State Bar.

The event was co-sponsored by Miles Sears and Eanni, McCormick Barstow, Dowling Aaron Incorporated and Whitney Thompson & Jeffcoach.