Special Program Funds

A well-rounded legal education program requires more than gifted teaching, a comprehensive curriculum and modern classrooms. Often the enrichment that comes from involvement in community service, a meeting with a leading figure in the legal arena, or competing in interscholastic competition, helps students connect theoretical learning with real understanding, and hones professional skills.

At Southwestern, these offerings are woven into the law school experience with tremendous results. They are evident in the national reputation of Southwestern’s award-winning Moot Court teams. They are reflected in the roster of distinguished visitors which has included recent heads of state from nations spanning the globe, judicial leaders including United States Supreme Court justices, and top legal scholars and practitioners who have played key roles in cases from tobacco litigation to proving the innocence of death row inmates. They are apparent in the enthusiastic response of students to discussions with distinguished members of the bench and bar through the Dean’s Roundtable and Inn of St. Ives dinners.

Southwestern seeks to enhance these and other elements that add a real world perspective and otherwise enrich the student experience. Endowed lectureship series will bring inspiring national and international leaders to campus. Summer work stipends will enable more students to gain legal experience in public service and nonprofit agencies. Contributions designated for special Taylor Library collections will expand the specialized resources available to students.

A variety of special programs, activities, technology and other resources greatly enhances and complements the formal studies of law school. Examples of special programs and projects in need of sponsors include:

• $50: A book for the Taylor Library
• $500-2,500: Computers, laser printers and other equipment for Law Review and Journal of Law and Trade in the Americas
• $500-5,000: Travel expenses for a Moot Court or Trial Advocacy team entering national competition
• $5,000-15,000: A special collection in the Taylor Library
• $5,000-25,000: State-of-the-art courtroom video equipment
• $10,000-100,000: Endowment for an annual Distinguished Speaker lecture series in cutting-edge area of law
• $25,000-150,000: Underwriting a major conference at Southwestern featuring nationally recognized practitioners and legal scholars