Tom and Karen Armstrong, longtime supporters of Elon University's study abroad and service learning programs, recently contributed gifts in support of the law school's Wills Clinic and its veterans scholarship fund.
On January 28, Karen Armstrong visited with law students participating in the wills clinic, and with Elon Law professor Margaret Kantlehner, faculty adviser for the clinic.
Discussing the clinic’s emphasis on providing wills for clients of Habitat for Humanity, Armstrong said the clinic was giving Habitat families an important sense of security as homeowners.
“A new home is often the first major asset that Habitat for Humanity families experience,” Armstrong said. “The wills clinic helps these families go that next step beyond home ownership, by beginning to plan for their future and their family’s future.”
Third year law student Justin Ervin said he valued the unique educational benefit of the clinic.
“The opportunity to work with clients through the Wills Clinic makes our study of the law much more meaningful,” Ervin said. “We’re able to apply the law to specific client circumstances and help people who might not otherwise be able to afford legal representation. It’s great to know that people like the Armstrongs see the value of the clinic as well. Their support means a great deal to us.”
Elon Law alumnus Melissa Duncan, who opened a branch of the law firm Duncan Law in Greensboro with husband and fellow alumnus Damon Duncan, said the clinic was an important part of her legal education.
“There’s no question the wills clinic has helped us to serve clients more effectively,” Duncan said. “I’m glad to see it gaining support, not only because it helps law students obtain important practical experience, but because it connects students to communities in need as well.”
The Armstrong family gift also supports the law school’s participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a federal matching aid program designed to assist post-9/11 veterans with secondary and post-secondary educational opportunities.