The Albany Law School community showed significant support for current and future law students on the eighth annual We Are Albany Law Give Day on March 24. Donors contributed over $100,000, and added to the fundraising goals of the ambitious $30 million We Rise Together: The Campaign for Albany Law School.

This year, giving had a farther reach. The law school received gifts from more than 18 states—five more than Give Day 2020.  

As gifts came in from geographically far locations, the impact was felt close to home. Individuals gave to more than 15 different designations on Give Day. Top areas of support included the Albany Law School Fund (Annual Fund); The William M. Watkins Scholarship; The Wilkinson Memorial Fund (Student Emergency Fund); and the newly founded Women's Leadership Initiative.  

More than 200 gifts were received from 183 donors, the Class of 1954 had the highest participation percentage followed by the Class of 2017.  

"Give Day 2021 was a success! Our donors are appreciated always, but especially now as students continue to face financial uncertainty but have a desire to learn the law," said Kaitlyn Lounsbury, director of annual giving at Albany Law School. "We are so thankful to our generous donors. Their philanthropy will make a greater impact on our campus community."

Many donors continued their multi-year giving streaks but chose to support a specific area of the law school.

"I've always enjoyed our opportunity to designate the gift to a variety of outstanding programs. This year, I choose our Government Law Center to recognize its support services shared with governmental entities. Our Government Law Center is an example and fit instrument of the overarching impact that Albany Law School has on our government and the law," said Hon. Peter G. Crummey '81, National Alumni Association President, and member of the Board of Trustees.

For others, giving is a way to support their alma mater and encourage fellow community members to do the same.

"I'm inspired by those who have come before me, I hope my involvement and giving back to Albany Law will help instill the same spirit of service in the next generation and that, as soon as they're able, they continue the tradition of supporting the institution that has given us so much," said David Rozen '10. "I chose Albany Law for several reasons but most importantly, it had something special—a community of people unlike any other. This community is showcased by alumni like you who continue to contribute to the education of current/future students."