Join Me: A Letter from the Minnesota Law Annual Fund Chair
Fellow alumni,
When I think about my time at Minnesota Law, a few things stand out. First and foremost, I remember the committed professors who so freely shared their time, attention, and thought leadership both inside and outside of the Law School’s sub-plaza classrooms. I also recall the humanity that was so vividly put on display within our Law School community both on and after 9/11—which occurred the fall of my 2L year—as well as the interesting and thought-provoking discussions regarding national security, privacy, and related legal issues that were to follow during the early days of the “War on Terror.”
Even in the darkest of times, I found the Law School to be a place full of light—one that buoyed me with engaging discussions and caring mentorship. While, in that moment, I certainly wished I was living in less uncertain times—a sentiment undoubtedly shared by many current and former Law School students—the Law School indelibly shaped me through such experiences as both a person and a lawyer, and for that, I am forever grateful.
I thought about these stories when I agreed—enthusiastically—to serve as this year's Annual Fund Chair.
Minnesota Law, for me, is not an “institution.” It isn't a building or a set of classrooms or even a particular curriculum. Minnesota Law is its people—those from whom I learned the importance of diligent study, dedication to the profession, commitment to justice, passionate client service, and a strong sense of responsibility to my fellow attorneys and the communities that we collectively serve.
I know you have your own stories. Your own unique memories. Your own Minnesota Law. In honor of everything that Minnesota Law means to you, I invite you to join me in making a gift to the University of Minnesota Law School today. Help ensure that our future lawyer-leaders continue to benefit from the exceptional foundation that Minnesota Law provided to me and my fellow Class of 2003 alumni—and, in the process, make their own stories.
Let me add one more personal note: right down the hall from my office, I can see for myself the proof that the quality of a Minnesota Law education endures. We've just hired three new associates who recently graduated from the Law School. They are sharp, engaged with the world, and eager to develop their skills as attorneys. In them, I see our future—and it is bright. I could not be more proud of my alma mater.
For Minnesota Law,
Julian C. Zebot, '03
2022-2023 University of Minnesota Law School Annual Fund Chair
