Bequest Reflects Vision for the Future of Law at Ole Miss

April 22, 2024, Oxford – A substantial gift from the estate of the late Major James Nathaniel Stearns Jr., a 1969 law graduate of the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), is set to materially impact the future of law at his alma mater.

Beneficiary of A $100,000 Gift

The University of Mississippi is the beneficiary of a $100,000 gift, generously left by Major Stearns in his estate plans. Half of this offer will establish the James Nathaniel Stearns Jr. Law Scholarship Endowment, while the remainder will be utilized to support the School of Law Dean’s Fund, an unrestricted account for the benefit of the school at the discretion of the Dean.

A Memorial and Much More

Major Stearns, who hailed from Melbourne, Florida, passed away in November 2022. His demise saw him retire from a fruitful career in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps. Nevertheless, his legacy continues through his bequeathing. The gift honors Major Stearns while aiding students in their quest to acquire law degrees.

The Impact of the Bequest on the Future of Law at Ole Miss

Fred Slabach, the dean of the law school, expressed immense gratitude for Major Stearns’ forward-thinking support. “His provision of a scholarship will financially benefit students who might otherwise be unable to obtain a law degree,” said Slabach. Furthermore, he added that the gift will enable the provision of funds to programs and areas in the law school that need them most.

An Opportunity for Full-Time Law Students

Recipients of the Stearns Scholarship will be full-time law students who are in good academic standing. The planned gift, according to Suzette Matthews, the executive director for development for the school, is an important contribution to the law school’s mission of training future generations of lawyers. She continues, “Such a planned gift establishes an honorable legacy, confirming the desire of the donor to continue supporting the school beyond his lifetime.”

A Call for Continued Support

The James Nathaniel Stearns Jr. Law Scholarship Endowment invites additional contributions from businesses and individuals – affirming the value of continued commitment to the future of law at Ole Miss.

In conclusion, Major Stearns’ bequest to the University of Mississippi is much more than a donation; it is a reflection of his vision for the future of law at his alma mater, contributing to the ongoing mission of cultivating tomorrow’s legal professionals.