Class of 1984 Pays It Forward

A photo of the Bascom Hill green space with a group of students sitting on the grass in the distance out of focus.
Photo by Bryce Richter / UW-Madison

Gifts from alumni and friends enable University of Wisconsin Law School to build on its rich tradition of excellence and innovation.

Without the support of generous donors, like those from the Class of 1984, we wouldn’t be able to attract a talented, bright and diverse student body; hire and retain world-class faculty; or offer an unrivaled portfolio of transformative learning opportunities for our students, the next generation of lawyers and leaders.

Last year, for their 40th reunion, the Class of 1984 wanted to do something to leave a lasting impact: They sought to raise $198,400 to “fund one or more scholarships for financially challenged students,” explained a letter from the Committee of The Class of 1984 Scholarship Fund to their class. The Committee is composed of Chris and Anne Noyes, Tad Seder and Pam Andrews, Rick Dahlson, Jerry Krause and Ellen Abbott.

It is undeniable that a UW Law education has a profound impact on the careers and personal lives of those who graduate from this great institution. The Class of 1984 is no exception.

“The friendships made and opportunities offered during those three years of law school shape one’s future and last a lifetime,” said the Committee. “Those of us from the Class of 1984 appreciate how fortunate we were to have such a great law school experience and wanted to create a perpetual scholarship fund to help provide that same opportunity for others. Working on the scholarship fund committee with former classmates, who have become lifelong friends, reinforced connections and provided a meaningful way for the Class of 1984 to pay it forward.”

Scholarships are an invaluable tool to attract high-caliber students to UW Law.

The Class of 1984 Scholarship Fund will provide financial need-based awards to students to help them pursue their legal careers while keeping things affordable. This fund will also commemorate the Class of 1984 and encourage philanthropy among alumni.

The Class of 1984 committee members led by example, making gifts totaling $70,000. They reached out to fellow classmates to join them in contributing to the scholarship fund by email, mail and personal calls. Since fundraising began, more than 40 class members have donated to the fund, for a current total of more than $133,600.

“We’re grateful for the Class of 1984’s dedication to supporting future lawyers through this scholarship,” said Olivia Staruck, Associate Director of Development. “Their support ensures students can thrive in their legal careers without the burden of large amounts of student debt.”

Support the Class of 1984 Scholarship Fund.

By Kassandra Tuten