The San Francisco 49ers have named Larry Levine, associate dean and professor of law at University of the Pacific’s McGeorge School of Law, their Teacher of the Game, recognizing more than four decades of teaching and advocacy.

The team honored him on the field during their home game against the Seattle Seahawks Jan. 3, making Levine the first university professor to receive the distinction.

“It was surreal. In my 40 years of affiliation with Pacific, nothing that I’ve done has gotten this much attention. It’s wild!” said Levine, who is a lifelong 49ers fan. “To be standing in the end zone of the field is just spectacular. I’m so, so deeply honored by this recognition and opportunity. I’m grateful to Pacific and the 49ers. It was a fascinating experience and I will cherish this memory forever.”

Presented by the 49ers Foundation, the Teacher of the Game program celebrates educators who demonstrate an enduring commitment to students, community impact and excellence in teaching. 

“For the past six seasons, the Teacher of the Game recognition has highlighted the incredible commitment of educators across the Bay Area who work tirelessly to shape students in their educational and personal development,” said Justin Prettyman, Vice President, Philanthropy and 49ers Foundation Executive Director.

“Through our partnership with University of the Pacific, the 49ers Foundation can reach students at all levels of their educational journeys, from elementary to professional. We are proud to honor Professor Levine as our first university educator and spotlight the importance of higher education in shaping students for long-term success in their careers.”

Since joining Pacific’s faculty in 1985, Levine has become a defining presence at McGeorge, known for his legal expertise, sharp wit and deep commitment to student success. His teaching, scholarship and public service reflect a steadfast dedication to equity, access and inclusion, particularly through his work on torts and legal challenges affecting the LGBTQ+ community.

“Professor Levine has built a career standing up for others,” said Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Gretchen Edwalds-Gilbert. “Through his teaching and mentorship, he challenges students to think critically about justice, to defend civil rights and to use the law to protect those whose voices often go unheard. This recognition by the San Francisco 49ers not only honors his extraordinary work but also highlights the profound role educators play in opening doors and expanding opportunity.”

His philanthropy also reflects that commitment. In 2022, Levine established the Jeffrey K. Poilé Memorial Civil Rights Scholarship in memory of his late partner, Jeff Poilé. The scholarship supports law students committed to advancing and protecting the civil rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. Since its creation, the fund has raised over $1.3 million in scholarship support for nearly 200 students.

Levine’s leadership in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion has earned national recognition. He has worked with organizations including the National Lesbian and Gay Lawyers Association, the State Bar Committee on Sexual Orientation Discrimination and the Law School Admission Council’s Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Issues Subcommittee. In 2025, the McGeorge School of Law received the LGBTQ+ Institutional Inclusive Excellence Award from the Association of American Law Schools, reflecting a culture of inclusion Levine helped build.

Last year, Pacific awarded Levine its Distinguished Faculty Award, the university’s highest faculty honor, recognizing exemplary accomplishments in teaching, research and service. Together, these honors underscore a career devoted to empowering students who will use the law to advance equity and create lasting change.