Freedom Fighter

After 22 years leading the Northern California Innocence Project, Linda Starr began a phased retirement in August 2023. The organization she led freed the wrongfully convicted, educated students, and more. “Her impact is immeasurable—she is a beloved teacher and legal educator, a renowned scholar, and a steadfast advocate for her clients,” said School of Law Dean Michael J. Kaufman.

The number of wrongfully convicted people released through the efforts of the Northern California Innocence Project during Starr’s tenure. She co-founded NCIP with Cookie Ridolfi. In the same email announcing Starr’s retirement, Starr said NCIP’s work will continue. Indeed, five months later, through the project’s efforts, Miguel Solorio was freed after serving 25 years in prison for a murder he didn’t commit.

The work continues under the veteran leadership of executive director Todd Fries J.D. ’09 and legal director Paige Kaneb.