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Connect with alumni and learn about ways to get involved with Wake Forest Law! Update your contact information with WakeNetwork to help us keep in touch, and let us know what’s new with you by submitting a Class Note to be featured in the Jurist. The Jurist and Legal Deacon Digest archives are stored here so you always have access to news about your fellow alums.
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Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Did you know? On October 11, 1962, more than ten months before delivering his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, Martin Luther King Jr. came to Wake Forest University and addressed a crowd of more than 2,200 people in Wait Chapel. His visit remains a powerful moment in the University’s history and a lasting reminder of the call to justice and equality.
You can listen to the audio recording and read the transcript of Dr. King’s speech by request through the digital archives at Z. Smith Reynolds Library. Link in bio.
@zsrlibrary @zsrspecial
📸: @WFUniversity
If ever there was someone who seems to have it all figured out, it’s David Daggett (JD ’85).
But that assuredness is by no means accidental, or pure luck. It has resulted from a clear, foundational life philosophy. From his incredibly successful law firm, to his deep and broad service to the community, to his devotion to his family and his health, Daggett is intentional about how he spends his time and energy.
Read about David`s commitment to the Four Anchors that make up his life philosophy, and how his work and life embody Pro Humanitate at the link in our bio.
@wfualumni
We are sad to share that Professor Emerita Rhoda Billings has passed away. A trailblazer, icon, and overall remarkable human being, Rhoda earned her law degree from Wake Forest Law in 1966, graduating as the only woman and first in her class.
Rhoda held numerous positions in the North Carolina judiciary, including as Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. She also served on many state and national boards and commissions and volunteered with the North Carolina Bar Association in numerous capacities.
Rhoda joined the Wake Forest Law faculty in 1973, its first female law professor. In 2013, Wake Forest University awarded Rhoda with the Medallion of Merit. Her impact on our Law School, on Wake Forest, and on North Carolina is incomparable.
She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on. Read more about Rhoda in her obituary at the link in our bio. @wfualumni
Behind every Wake Forest Law student experience are programs and opportunities made possible by donor support, such as financial assistance, participation in student organizations and pro bono opportunities, and more. The Wake Forest Fund for the School of Law helps bring those experiences to life. Consider a gift to help make a difference in the lives of our students. Click the link in our bio to make your end-of-year gift.
Assistant Dean of Achievement and Impact Barbara Melendez was recently honored with the Friend of UMBA Award by the Utah Minority Bar Association (UMBA). This annual award, one of UMBA’s most meaningful acknowledgements, recognizes individuals, institutions, and law firms that demonstrate exceptional support for UMBA and its mission. Recipients are celebrated not only for their achievements but for the impact they make through service, mentorship, and advocacy.
“Barbara Melendez is the embodiment of resilience and purpose,” said Amaris Leiataua, Dean Melendez’s former student and presenter of the UMBA award. “My law school journey and countless others’ exist because of Barbara’s unwavering belief that we all belong in this profession.”
Congratulations, Dean Melendez!
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For more information on making a gift, volunteering, or connecting with other alumni, contact the Development and Alumni Engagement Office.