Scott Leighty ’09, assistant dean for development and alumni relations at Elon Law, and Blaire McClanahan L’14, managing partner at the Law Offices of Cheryl David in Greensboro, are recognized for their contributions to Greensboro and the Triad.
Two leaders connected to Elon University School of Law — one strengthening legal education from within the institution and another serving families across the region through private practice — have been named to the Triad Business Journal’s 2026 class of “40 Under 40” honorees.
Scott Leighty ’09, assistant dean for development and alumni relations at Elon Law, and Blaire McClanahan L’14, managing partner at the Law Offices of Cheryl David in Greensboro, are among 40 professionals recognized this year for leadership, achievement, and community impact across the Piedmont Triad before the age of 40. They were recognized at a reception Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the Greensboro Coliseum.
Presented annually, the Triad Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 awards recognize emerging leaders helping shape the region’s economic, civic, and professional future. Honorees span industries but share a common distinction: meaningful contributions to their organizations alongside a commitment to strengthening the Triad as a place to live and work.
For Leighty and McClanahan, both Elon alumni whose careers remain rooted in Greensboro, the recognition reflects careers defined not simply by professional success, but by sustained investment in people, opportunity, and community.
Scott Leighty ’09: Building opportunity through connection
Scott Leighty is guided by a desire to build something lasting: expanding opportunity, creating momentum, and strengthening institutions that shape communities.
An Elon University graduate with a B.A. in political science who later earned a master’s degree in higher education administration from North Carolina State University, Leighty built his career in nonprofit and community engagement before returning to his alma mater. Today, as assistant dean for development and alumni relations at Elon Law, he leads efforts connecting alumni, donors, and community partners to the law school’s mission and students.
At heart is his belief that Elon Law and Greensboro grow stronger together. He views the law school as an active contributor to downtown vitality and regional talent development, preparing graduates who often build careers and bolster communities across the Triad.
That philosophy has guided two consecutive record-breaking years of philanthropic support for Elon Law — with his sights set on a third. Expanded alumni engagement and partnerships have generated new scholarships, strengthened experiential learning opportunities, and supported innovative programming that enhances students’ professional preparation.
Jonathan Miller, senior director of development at Elon University, said Leighty has found alignment between personal passion and professional purpose.
“Scott’s love for Elon and for this community truly drives his work,” Miller said. “He has immersed himself in understanding Elon Law and finding ways to move it forward. His dedication and enthusiasm elevate everyone around him. We are proud to serve with him every day.”
Leighty oversees engagement with Elon Law’s national alumni network while managing relationships with the school’s Advisory Board, connecting experienced leaders with students and institutional priorities. Those relationships translate into mentorship, career pathways, and expanded opportunities for future lawyers.
“Scott brings care and energy to Elon Law,” said Dean Zak Kramer. “He keeps our alumni engaged in ways that create opportunity for our students and help power the programs and innovation that define the Elon Law experience.”
For Leighty, the recognition affirms the impact created when people invest in institutions and communities.
“For me, it’s about creating meaning and making an impact,” Leighty said, “helping build something that makes both Elon Law and the Triad communities stronger.”
Blaire McClanahan L’14: Advocating for families when it matters most
Much of Blaire McClanahan’s legal work begins at moments of uncertainty: Families navigating illness, loss, aging, or major life transitions. Her role is to bring clarity and reassurance when clients need it most.
A graduate of North Carolina State University and Elon Law’s Class of 2014, McClanahan is managing partner at the Law Offices of Cheryl David in Greensboro, where she focuses on estate planning, elder law, probate administration, and asset protection. Her work centers on helping families plan for the future and protect stability during difficult moments.
Since becoming a licensed attorney in North Carolina in 2015, McClanahan has built a reputation as both a skilled attorney and trusted counselor. She co-authored a guide on protecting family assets from long-term care costs and regularly educates North Carolina residents through seminars and webinars on estate planning and elder law.
Justin Plummer, her colleague and law partner of nearly a decade, credits McClanahan’s success to relentless dedication to clients and continuous professional growth.
“If a client has a problem, Blaire will not rest until that situation is solved,” Plummer said. “Her care for clients, often during their most difficult healthcare events or family losses, truly sets her apart.”
That commitment extends beyond legal representation. McClanahan previously taught graduate-level elder law courses at UNC Greensboro and mentors emerging attorneys, including Elon Law students interested in estate planning practice. Her leadership within professional organizations and community groups reflects the same service-oriented approach that defines her work.
Colleagues note that McClanahan has helped grow and modernize the family-founded firm while maintaining its mission of compassionate service. Her efforts have earned statewide and national recognition, including selection as an American Bar Association “On the Rise – Top 40 Young Lawyers” honoree.
Outside the office, she remains deeply engaged in the Greensboro community through volunteer initiatives and civic leadership, reinforcing her belief that legal practice carries responsibilities beyond the courtroom.