Investing in the Future
New $50,000 Gift from Sykes Family Strengthens the Justice Michael L. Douglas Pre-Law Program
Building on their historic commitment to legal education in Nevada, alumnus William T. Sykes and his wife, Brianne M. Sykes, have announced an additional $50,000 gift to support the Justice Michael L. Douglas Pre-Law Fellowship Program at the William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV.
This latest contribution expands on the family’s landmark donation, which marked the first time an alumnus established an endowed program fund at the law school. The new funding will strengthen the Justice Michael L. Douglas Pre-Law Endowment and provide matching funds, effectively supercharging the program’s ability to inspire, prepare, and support first-generation and underrepresented students on their journey to the legal profession.
“We are very grateful for Will and Brianne’s continued generosity,” said Leah Chan Grinvald, Dean and Richard J. Morgan Professor of Law. “This additional $50,000 gift is a powerful vote of confidence in the pipeline to legal education that we are building. By expanding their support of the endowment through a matching donation, the Sykes family ensures that even more aspiring legal minds will have the resources, mentorship, and financial backing they need to succeed.”
The announcement arrives at a milestone moment for the initiative. This summer, the Justice Michael L. Douglas Pre-Law Fellowship Program will welcome its seventh cohort of students. Since its founding in 2019, the program has successfully introduced students to the benefits of legal education and helped them navigate the law school admissions process. Many alumni from the past six cohorts have successfully pursued legal education, building vital networks and writing skills that diversify and enrich Nevada's legal landscape. The endowment honors retired Nevada Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael L. Douglas, the state's first African American Supreme Court Justice and a lifelong mentor to Will Sykes.
"Seeing the incredible momentum of the Justice Douglas Pre-Law Fellowship and the achievements of its participants made it an easy decision for Brianne and I to increase our support," said Will Sykes, partner at Claggett & Sykes. "Justice Douglas dedicated his life to breaking down barriers, and we want to ensure this program has the robust, permanent financial foundation required to keep doing the same for generations to come. We hope this donation inspires others to join us in investing in the future leaders of our state."