Peter McElligott ’15 knows the value of serving others and the community. After earning his B.A. from the University of Illinois, McElligott taught school in Baltimore as a corps member with Teach For America, helping his students to overcome challenges by closing the achievement gap. While at Minnesota Law, he was a summer associate at Anthony Ostlund, the Minneapolis firm where he now represents individuals and businesses in complex disputes.
His ability to meld a background of service to his work life is an example of early-career leadership, which he relishes. “To me, being a leader means sticking your neck out, even when it is uncomfortable, unpopular, or has never been done before. Being a lawyer gives you the skills, confidence, and knowledge to be a leader on behalf of your clients, your community, and society.”
McElligott practices what he was taught at Minnesota Law: he’s offered pro bono legal services by volunteering for more than seven years with Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, advocating for those with disabilities. “Lawyers have a unique position and obligation to lead by representing clients even when the facts are not in your favor, mentoring colleagues, advocating for policy changes, or fighting for those who don’t have a voice.”
Serving his clients and community closely aligns with his desire to support Minnesota Law. “From an early age, my parents instilled in my three older siblings and me: that to whom much is given, much is required. The Law School has given me a great deal: an incredible legal education, open doors to a legal community that welcomed a proud Illini, and a network of classmates and alumni who remain some of my closest friends to this day. Giving back to the Law School is a no-brainer.”
Paying it forward comes naturally for McElligott who has warm memories of the connections he made at Minnesota Law — like poring over briefs and practicing oral arguments with National Moot Court Competition teammates under the mentorship of Professor Brad Clary ’75. But the moments of relaxation and reflection during the challenges of law school were just as valuable, he says, including “every time we had the chance to build camaraderie with classmates at Bullwinkle’s or the Corner Bar. We’d remember we were not alone on this journey.”
HOMETOWN:
Naperville, Illinois
GIVING LEVEL:
William B. Lockhart Club, Lockhart GOLD
WHAT WON’T WE FIND ON YOUR RESUME:
I am a cutthroat Monopoly player.
WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO FIRST-YEAR LAW STUDENTS:
Find out what your priorities are and prioritize them.