Pepperdine Global Justice Week’s Carnival for a Cause Provides an Evening of Joy and Impact with Special Guest Speaker Bob Goff

Pepperdine’s Malibu campus came alive with community spirit on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, as students, faculty, and guests gathered at the Amphitheatre for Carnival for a Cause—a highlight event of Global Justice Week hosted by Pepperdine Caruso School of Law’s Sudreau Global Justice Institute. From 4 to 8 PM, the event provided a vibrant mix of fun and philanthropy, combining carnival games, an In-N-Out food truck, and a dunk tank fundraiser—all in support of anti-human trafficking efforts around the world. Designed for Pepperdine undergraduate, law, and other graduate students, Global Justice Week was a unique opportunity to explore ways to promote justice and inspire students with the knowledge and motivation needed to take action both locally and globally.

Tanner Gardner

The event was filled with fellowship and friendly competition as attendees tried their luck at carnival games and eagerly lined up for a chance to dunk members of the Pepperdine community—including Jeff Walling, director of the Youth Leadership Initiative; Mike Folkerts, professor of psychology; Nick Cumming, assistant professor of humanities; and Tanner Gardner, director of athletics. Later in the evening, the night shifted into a time of worship led by Pepperdine’s worship ministry WAVES WORSHIP. The event culminated with a heartfelt and inspiring message from New York Times best-selling author Bob Goff, whose words encouraged the crowd to pursue justice, live boldly, and never shy away from your calling.

WAVES WORSHIP

"I want you to fall in love with justice," Goff declared. "You'll face a few setbacks along the way, but don't let them pull you off the scent of justice. Don’t be discouraged just because you haven’t done it before. Push through the fear and the obstacles and pursue not only the opportunities you believe you're capable of but the ones you're truly called to."

Jessica Furrow, Seaver College student and copresident of the Sudreau Global Justice Club, was inspired by Goff’s words and felt his presence amplified the week’s broader themes.

“Bob Goff was a powerful figure at our event. His message about not waiting for permission to pursue justice and instead following the passions in our hearts resonated deeply with me," reflected Furrow. "He greatly enriched the themes of Global Justice Week by embodying the joy of justice and reflecting Jesus’ heart for His children—the true heart of justice."

Bob Goff

Global Justice Week featured a variety of additional events, including a meet-and-greet with the Sudreau Global Justice Club leadership team and staff from the Sudreau Global Justice Institute. Attendees had the opportunity to pick up merchandise and learn more about ways to get involved in global justice initiatives. The week also included an Activation Day, where participants could volunteer with one of the institute’s partner organizations through activities such as assembling supply and gift backpacks for survivors of human trafficking. Representatives from Forever Found, a child-trafficking rescue organization, also shared insights into their work and the support they provide to survivors.

Learn more about the Sudreau Global Justice Institute and the impactful work they are doing on the Caruso School of Law website.