The University of Georgia School of Law has announced a $5 million donation from the Stanton Foundation, marking the largest gift in the school's history. The funds will support the First Amendment Clinic through an endowment.
The clinic, established in 2019, focuses on defending and advancing freedoms of speech, press, assembly, and petition. It also provides hands-on learning for approximately 15-20 law students annually.
First Amendment Clinic Director Clare Norins highlighted the impact of this donation: “The long-term support provided by the Stanton Foundation’s generous gift means that many future classes of UGA law students will have the opportunity to work on real-world cases in Georgia and beyond, all highlighting how essential free speech and a free press are for a healthy democracy.” She added that graduates often regard their time at the clinic as one of their most meaningful experiences in law school.
Norins further noted that the gift ensures the clinic can continue serving as an educational resource on First Amendment issues for various audiences including organizations, students, journalists, and citizens.
School of Law Dean Peter B. "Bo" Rutledge expressed gratitude towards the Stanton Foundation: “Our law school’s partnership with the Stanton Foundation has been transformative. I am grateful to the Stanton Foundation for its steadfast commitment to our institution and our students." He acknowledged that this latest contribution makes the foundation the school's largest overall donor.
The Stanton Foundation initially contributed around $1 million to establish the First Amendment Clinic five years ago. Since then, it has funded other initiatives such as Practicum in Animal Welfare Skills, bringing its total investment in the school to nearly $8.5 million.
Stanton Foundation co-director Liz Allison praised Dean Rutledge's efforts: “No one has done more to identify opportunities for impactful giving at UGA than Dean Bo Rutledge.” She commended his support for Director Norins and his ability to connect with other giving opportunities within UGA.
Rutledge emphasized that partnerships like this redefine what it means to be a great national public law school: "Together, we are providing our students world-class, hands-on and purpose-driven experiences with a focus on remaining one of the best returns on investment in legal education today."
Founded by former CBS president Frank Stanton, the Stanton Foundation aims to protect First Amendment rights among other objectives. The foundation also supports UGA’s College of Veterinary Medicine and School of Public and International Affairs.