Named scholarships represent a partnership between the donor and the law school in advancing our mission: to educate future lawyers who demonstrate integrity, service, and professionalism in the practice of law. These scholarships are not purchased honors, but meaningful commitments that reflect shared values between the donor and the institution.
The purpose of a named scholarship is to support students whose academic promise and character align with the principles taught throughout our curriculum: professional responsibility, respect for the rule of law, ethical advocacy, and a dedication to community service.
Alignment with Mission and Curriculum
As a school dedicated to preparing ethical and competent lawyers, we seek donors whose values and intended impact are consistent with what we teach our students: professionalism, civility, and service in the legal profession.
- Mission Fit: Every named scholarship must support the law school’s mission and uphold the standards of conduct we expect of the profession we serve.
- Curricular Consistency: The purpose, naming, and criteria of any scholarship must reflect the same professional and ethical principles integrated into our academic and co-curricular programs.
- Integrity of Recognition: Naming opportunities recognize partnership in advancing legal education and the legal profession—not commercial sponsorship or influence over curriculum, admissions, or hiring.
Gift Requirements and Structure
Named scholarships may be created as either endowed or expendable funds. To establish a named scholarship, a multi-year commitment is required.
- Endowed Scholarships provide awards in perpetuity. The recommended minimum to establish an endowed named scholarship is $25,000, which ensures a meaningful annual award and sustainable long-term support.
- Expendable Scholarships provide immediate or short-term support. A recommended minimum of $10,000–$15,000 creates a multi-year named award. Donors who wish to contribute at other levels may join collaborative or pooled scholarship funds that carry shared recognition.
Review and Approval Process
All naming proposals are reviewed by the Department of Development and Alumni Relations and approved by the Dean and/or the Board of Directors under the school’s gift acceptance and naming policies. The school reserves the right to decline or revoke naming when necessary to preserve academic independence, professional integrity, or institutional reputation.
Stewardship and Partnership
The law school maintains sole discretion in scholarship administration and recipient selection to ensure fairness and compliance with academic and financial aid policies. Donors receive annual reports on the fund’s status and general updates on student impact.
The establishment of a named scholarship signifies an ongoing partnership rooted in shared purpose: supporting legal education that elevates professionalism, promotes justice, and strengthens the communities we serve.