Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

On a March evening, the St. John’s Law cafeteria hosted the 2025 Public Interest Auction, featuring a rock 'n' roll theme and a display of guitars and microphones. The event gathered students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the Law School. Professor John P. “Jack” Clarke ‘55CBA, ‘57L, ‘24HON was present as this year’s Auction Platinum Sponsor.

The annual auction is organized by the St. John’s Law Public Interest Center to support its programs and initiatives such as the Summer Public Interest Fellowship Program and pro bono programming.

Professor Clarke has been recognized for his long-standing support of St. John's Law students. Last year, he received a Special Lifetime Achievement Award from the St. John’s Law Public Interest Center students for his contributions.

Reflecting on his support for the university, Clarke said: “I support St. John's because St. John’s has supported me.” He recounted receiving substantial financial aid from St. John's when he was in need: “They replied to my letter and provided me with a substantial scholarship.”

Clarke graduated from the Law School in 1957 and returned to work at the University in 1959 as Director of Alumni Relations before joining the full-time faculty at TCB.

Known as Mr. St. John's within the community, Clarke emphasized networking's importance: “I see how people can help people... You never know who you’re going to meet.”

Clarke has worked under seven University presidents and 14 deans at TCB throughout his career.

Discussing changes over time at St. John’s Law School, Clarke noted that while more students now pursue careers in big law firms, public service remains an integral part of education there: “That’s why supporting public interest initiatives is important to me,” he shared.

As St. John's Law approaches its centennial anniversary, Clarke expressed optimism about its future: “Although we have changed and grown, we haven't lost the sense of family.”

At the conclusion of this year's auction event, Clarke reflected on his time at St. John’s: “I was in the right place at the right time.”