A New Legacy: Scholarship Fuels Hometown Talent at Boyd Law

The William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV has announced a transformational $300,000 gift from alumni Sean Claggett (B.A. ’00, J.D. ’03) and Louella (“Lou”) Claggett (B.A. ’00). Pledged through the Sean and Lou Claggett Charitable Foundation, this donation sets a new record as the law school's largest gift from an individual law alumnus and his family, and establishes the Claggett Family Endowed Scholarship.

Combining both endowed and immediate-use funds, the new scholarship is specifically designed to support students with a strong connection to the Las Vegas community. The first scholarship recipient will be awarded in the 2026-2027 school year.

Investing in the Next Generation

The Claggetts grew up in Las Vegas and met at Clark High School. They have built their firm, Claggett & Sykes, in the city over the last twenty years. For them, this gift is a personal commitment to their hometown.

"As a proud alumnus, I'm honored to help ensure this terrific institution continues to open doors for the next generation of students, just as it did for me," said Sean Claggett, a double Rebel alumnus.

Lou Claggett emphasized the motivation behind their foundation's support: "We believe it’s necessary to help hard-working students from our hometown succeed and thrive, regardless of their financial circumstances."

A Legacy of Philanthropy

Dean and Richard J. Morgan Professor of Law, Leah Chan Grinvald, highlighted the importance of the donation. "This transformational commitment from the Sean and Lou Claggett Charitable Foundation will help us recruit the most talented students from our community," she said.

Tiffany Vickers, Interim Executive Vice President of the UNLV Foundation, praised the family's impact beyond the financial pledge. "Their donation is a profound statement about the power of paying it forward," Bernhard stated. "Beyond the financial impact, Sean and Lou are serving as role models in personal philanthropy, demonstrating to every current and future alum the profound impact they can have.”

If the Claggetts have inspired you with their commitment to the Boyd School of Law, explore how to leave your mark on future generations by contacting Heather Rappaport at heather.rappaport@unlv.edu.