Class of 2009 Surpasses 2008 Class Gift Donor Total

The Class of 2009 set a new Maryland Law record—garnering support from 96 graduates making gifts or 5-year pledges to the class gift—the most from any graduating class in the history of the law school. 

Inspired by a challenge from Board of Visitors member Arnold M. Weiner ’57, the class total now raised now stands at $12,428 that will be matched by Mr. Weiner.  Contributors will be asked to vote on how the gift should be utilized next week. 

Another inspiration was the possibility of beating the Class of 2008.  “Each class wants to leave their own legacy at the School of Law, and surpassing their number of donors was our goal from the beginning,” said 2009 Gift co-Chair Lisa Elder. 

The 2008 gift raised $32,789 from 72 donors through the initial campaign ending in May.  The money was utilized to establish the Class of 2008 Fund to support annual community service and pro bono projects. 

“We knew it was going to be a long shot to reach the 2008 money total, particularly given the tough job market our class is facing and the down economy, so we focused on participation.” Elder added.  “The $20.09 gift in honor of our graduation made it possible for a lot of people to support the project.  We are still collecting gifts, so anyone interested in supporting our class can participate through the 2009 gift website.”

“I was happy to see the Class of 2009 step up and beat our number of donors.  It shows that our students are truly committed to enhancing the legacy of Maryland Law,” said 2008 Gift co-Chair Jeff Knight.  “I must admit I was still a bit happy that they didn’t come close to our money total.  It leaves something for future classes to strive for.” 

The Class of 2009 also beat the School of Social Work this year in a friendly competition based on the school that had the largest percentage of class members participating in the gift.