The law firm of Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey and Leonard, LLP has made a major pledge in support of the Elon University School of Law which is proposed to be headquartered in downtown Greensboro, N.C. A decision by the university’s board of trustees on establishing the law school is expected Oct. 29. If the school is approved, the first class will enroll in fall 2006.
Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey and Leonard is among several businesses, foundations and individuals that participated in the fund drive led by Jim Melvin, president of the Joseph M. Bryan Foundation, to provide $10 million in start-up financing for the school. The firm’s partners voted to make the commitment because of the impact it will have on Greensboro.
“We believe the Elon University School of Law is a very important and exciting project, and a good thing for our city,” said Ed Winslow, Brooks Pierce’s managing partner. “We are proud to be a partner in this venture and will work with the university in the future to make this an excellent law school that is a credit to our community.”
Elon president Leo M. Lambert expressed appreciation for the firm’s support. “Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey and Leonard is one of the leading law firms in the state and nation, and Elon University is honored and pleased to have not only their financial support, but also a commitment by partners in the firm to assist Elon in creating a new law school that will be renowned for high quality and innovation,” Lambert said.
The firm’s gift will memorialize the late Hugh Humphrey, a senior partner and distinguished legal, civic and political leader who died in March 2003. A facility in the law school building, the former Greensboro Central Public Library, will be named in Humphrey’s honor.
“Hugh loved Greensboro with all his heart. He dedicated his career to service to Greensboro, the legal community and the cause of education.” Winslow said. “He would have been excited about this law school and our gift is a fitting tribute to his outstanding legacy.”
Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey and Leonard was founded in 1897 and is one of North Carolina’s most prestigious firms, with offices in Greensboro and Raleigh. Clients are served by more than 75 lawyers who have expertise in all facets of business law.