Adoption Day 2015
"A pro bono experience at the Baylor Law School is vitally important. We view it as integral to what a Baylor Lawyer is to become," said Judge Ken Starr, Baylor University President & Chancellor.
Each year, November is recognized as National Adoption Month and for the eighth consecutive year, Baylor Law hosted its pro bono Adoption Day clinic. The Hon. Gary Coley of the 74th State District Court presided over the adoptions of 32 children who were welcomed into new families.
In conjunction with the Baylor Public Interest Legal Society (BPILS), faculty, students and friends organized the Lego-themed celebration and dressed as various characters from Lego Land.
"This is a community event," said Bridget Fuselier, professor of law and faculty sponsor of BPILS. "The word is getting out about what we are doing and we are overjoyed. These children were dealt a pretty unfair hand in life, but these foster and adoptive parents have shown such love and support for these children and have chosen to make them part of their forever family."
With 209 children waiting to be adopted in McLennan County, Baylor Law recognizes the need for pro bono support and utilizes their skills to live the highest calling of a lawyer by reaching out to serve others.
"We are problem solvers," said Stephen Rispoli, assistant dean of student affairs and pro bono programs. "We are here to help people. We believe that it is our duty as professionals to assist our neighbors in their time of need."
Sponsors included:
- Baylor Law School
- Baylor Law Public Interest Legal Society
- McLennan County Bar Association
- McLennan County Child Welfare Board
- McLennan County Department of Family Protective Services
- Michael Bates
- Canes
- Chick-Fil-A
- Costco
- Dominos
- Dr Pepper Museum
- ESC Region 12 Blockfest
- Paul and Bridget Fuselier
- Charles Levy
- Mayborn Museum
