Yesterday, the day finally arrived! Over twelve years ago, the then-president of the University of South Carolina, John Palms, and the law school dean, John Montgomery, took me to the faculty house on the Horseshoe for lunch and asked me if I would be interested in chairing the USC Law School Building Fund Campaign. With my legal career meaning as much as it does to me and my family, I could not say no. I happily accepted the position, yet little did I know that it would take us such a long time to raise the money. There were numerous challenges and arguments against building a new law school, but it was clear to me that the existing building was inadequate to provide the proper learning environment. Throughout the time of the building’s construction, we have had two new presidents after Dr. Palms, and the university wisely added Steve Hamm as my co-chair. Steve is one of my favorite people, along with being one of the best lawyers, fathers, and husbands on the planet. Together, along with other volunteers and university development staff, we finally raised close to $20 million, with the State Legislature graciously giving us the remaining $65 million.
I must say that the new law school is not about me, although Steven, myself, and many others worked very hard to get us here. I am so proud to have been a part of this effort, and the new building is a stunning addition to the university. It is state of the art, designed by the best law school architects; it has everything in terms of class, dignity, and the “wow-factor” that the old building lacked. In addition, I am very proud to say that the university named rooms after both Steve and I, naming my dedicated room the Mike Kelly Courtroom/Seminar Room.
It has been an honor to serve this cause, and I feel great pride in the achievement of our goal. I am delighted that my name will be on an endearing plaque on the wall of probably the newest and nicest law school in the country. After the Building Fund Dedication Ceremony yesterday morning, we had the pleasure of attending the Black Tie Gala to celebrate this wonderful new addition to the University of South Carolina, the City of Columbia, and the administration of justice in South Carolina.
Go Gamecocks!
