Give Back

The easiest way to make a gift or pledge to St. John’s Law is through the online form. You may decide whether the gift is one time or reoccurring using the online form. You may also designate your gift toward a student scholarship, fellowship, center, clinic, competition and program, or professorship. If you would like to make a gift in honor or in memory of someone, please indicate your selection when completing the online form.

Please note that this form is optimized for use with the current version of the Chrome browser. If you are experiencing any difficulties making your gift, please contact Jean Nolan at 718-990-8059 during business hours or Brian Woods 24/7 at 914-263-7026. We are happy to assist. 

To give by check, please make the check payable to St. John’s University School of Law and mail it to:

Jean Nolan 
Office of Development and Alumni Relations
St. John’s University School of Law
8000 Utopia Parkway Queens, NY 11439

To give by credit card over the phone, please call:

Jean Nolan, Manager, Office of Development and Alumni Relations
718-990-8059

To learn more please see the St. John's University Planned and Estate Giving web page. 

For any questions please contact:

Brian J. Woods
Associate Dean for Law School Advancement
718-990-5792
[email protected]

All gifts received by the calendar year end (December 31) will be counted toward the 2025 Fiscal Year and will be acknowledged in the 2024-2025 Report of Gifts.

If you have questions about end of year giving, please contact Agnia Ivanov at [email protected], or 718-990-7651. You can make your end of year gift online, by mail, or over the phone. 

The Alumni Events Calendar highlights upcoming events in New York City, and around the country. Find an event near you and learn more about your local Alumni Association Chapter.

The Alumnae Leadership Council actively participates in the Mentoring Circles Program. The program is open to members of the Alumnae Leadership Council. The Mentoring Committee of the ALC has completed two semesters of six one-hour virtual monthly sessions of mentoring circles for over 120 alumnae, complete with facilitator training and detailed curriculum.

Mentor Connect is the Law School's robust online mentoring platform that brings students seeking career guidance together with alumni who are excited to give it. Mentors can customize when and how they share their expertise and experience with the next generation of St. John's lawyers. To learn more about this wonderful opportunity for alumni to give back and make a difference, view the MC Mentor guide or register to become a mentor. 

Samantha Ojo '19

BLSA 50th Anniversary Celebration & Diversity Fund

“It’s important that the Law School accurately reflects the diversity of the world around us,” she says, as an avid supporter of the BLSA 50th Anniversary Celebration. “BLSA shaped the course of my law school journey and continues to impact my career as a practicing attorney. I support the Diversity Fund because I want to ensure that all Black students can experience the close-knit BLSA community during their time at St. John’s Law.”   

Hon. Joanna Seybert '71

Hon. Joanna Seybert ‘71 Scholarship  

“I’ve been blessed with a gift of more than 30 years on the federal bench, and that’s, in part, due to my education from St. John’s Law,” says Hon. Joanna Seybert ‘71, U.S. District Court Judge for the Eastern District of New York. “I've found St. John’s Law students and graduates to be intelligent, practical, open-minded, and mature. My career has focused on serving the greater good, and I continue to support St. John’s Law because it provides me with high-quality, personable interns and law clerks who have the same goal of bettering the community.”

Brett Cooper '01

Hon. Joanna Seybert ‘71 Scholarship  

Cooper, one of Hon. Joanna Seybert’s former clerks, was so moved by the Judge’s ongoing generosity that he, along with 17 other former clerks, established the Hon. Joanna Seybert ‘71 Scholarship at St. John’s Law. “I thought it was a fitting tribute to show how much we appreciate everything she has done for the Law School and, of course, for her clerks. It took just minutes to gather the support of her former law clerks to establish the scholarship. Our hope is that the scholarship encompasses Judge Seybert’s lasting, positive impact on St. John's Law for future generations.”   

Hon. Charles B. Rangel '60, '83HON

Hon. Charles B. Rangel ‘60, ‘83HON Scholarship

“I’ve received support from so many,” says Congressman Rangel. “As the kid who dropped out of high school, got the Purple Heart, and was trying to get a good law school education, I consistently reflect on how good and generous people have been over the years. I had people that believed in me, and who wanted to see me succeed. Now, I feel an obligation to open doors for today’s students. Education is a key to upward advancement, and now more than ever, it allows us the opportunity to make better decisions, not only for ourselves, but for future generations.”   

May Mansour '14

SHEro Challenge and Summer Public Interest Fellowship

To support this year’s superhero-themed Public Interest Auction, Rose DiMartino ’81 issued a challenge. She would match every $3,000 gift made by a member of the Law School Alumni Association Alumnae Leadership Council Chapter, which is open to all Law School alumnae. The funds raised from the SHEro Challenge would support the Law School’s Summer Public Interest Fellowship Program.  

One of the generous SHEroes, May Mansour, was happy to give back in this meaningful way. “Law school is already stressful, and it becomes more complicated when a student worries about how they will pay for their education. I was thrilled to hear that my contribution to the SHEro Challenge made a student’s life a little easier and helped give him the unrivaled opportunity to learn the law as a judicial intern this past summer.”  

Robert J. Gunther '81C, '84L

Robert J. Gunther contributes his time, talents, and treasure generously as an active St. John’s alumnus. Taking on a volunteer leadership role, he recently completed his term as President of the Law School Alumni Association.

“I think there are many ways lawyers can contribute to social justice,” Gunther says. “My particular path has involved participation on the BDS Board, a commitment to pro bono in my practice, and a financial commitment to public interest initiatives at St. John’s. I think each of us has to find our own path, and that is just fine, so long as we all contribute in some significant way to help those less fortunate.” Read the full story, "Robert J. Gunther '81C, '84L Gives Back So Students Can Serve the Greater Good."

Charles L. Kellar '41 Scholarship

Darryl Gibbs '00

"I'm compelled to model the servant leader mentality, by not only giving of my time and learned experience, but also my treasure," Gibbs says. "Throughout my career, I've been able to meet and work with other St. John's attorneys of color. We collectively wanted to ensure that students, particularly men of color, had the same opportunities afforded to us."

Ralph Carter '14

 "One of the key privileges of being a St. John's Law alumnus is  helping our students succeed by listening, showing them what they  can achieve, connecting them with other alumni, and creating opportunities to pursue  their interests," he shares. "I'm constantly blown away by the variety of places where our  students and alumni thrive, and I'm confident that students entering the legal profession  will make it better, more diverse, and more innovative than they found it."

Michael Henry '97

"I love the sustained, positive energy emanating from our current students and young alumni. It truly feels like the sky is the limit when it comes to the experiences and opportunities St. John's offers them. I hope this scholarship becomes a catalyst for a more sustained conversation among alumni about collaboration on bigger ideas for the benefit of the Law School community. I believe our alumni, and students, are up to the task!"

Francis Q. Kelly '27C, '30L and Sarah Jean Kelly Scholarship

Morgan Kelly '77

"My hope is that students continue to explore the many career opportunities that will be available to them as St. John's Law graduates," he says. "The Law School prepares practice- and bar-ready lawyers who aren't afraid to work hard, like the generations of graduates who came before them. They are ready to meet the needs of the legal profession today, and I hope they explore all the opportunities that will be available to them."

Bar Prep Meal Fund

Jordan Pamlanye '22 

"The Bar Prep Meal Fund had a profound impact on me when I was a student," Jordan Pamlanye says. "The dinners and lunches allowed me to take productive breaks, spend time with my friends, and keep going through the weeks of bar study. Because of this initiative, I felt the support of the entire alumni community, and I wanted to do my part to continue that support because that's what makes St. John's Law special. 

Elena Santo '22

"I was able to sit down with friends each night at the same time, over a healthy we didn't have to make or pack, to talk about topics other than the 87 exceptions to hearsay or the rule against perpetuities." So, when she had a chance to give back, Santo was quick to make a gift to the Bar Prep Meal Fund, sustaining and uplifting the next generation of bar studies.

Troy Rosasco '89

Troy and Linda Rosasco September 11th Memorial Scholarship

"In the spring of 2020, as COVID was spreading, students were losing their summer internships at an alarming rate. Due to the nature of my practice, I was able to hire four 2L students to work remotely. They were speaking to clients and taking witnesse affidavits in no time. Since then, we've employed multiple students in similar roles. They are an integral part of our team. In that same spirit of giving back to alma mater, my wife and I established a scholarship to inspire students to embrace St. John's Vincentian value of helping those in need."

Olivia Cheung '17

Erica Fine Public Interest Awardee

"My immigrant background has instilled in me a profound empathy for those facing adversity and the determination to make a positive impact in their lives," Cheung says. "The Public Interest Auction and other initiatives at St. John's Law align perfectly with my commitment to social justice and community empowerment. It's my sincere hope that by supporting these initiatives, I can play a part in empowering others to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams, just as I've been fortunate enough to do."

Patricia Lynn-Ford '85 and Steven Ford '85

Steven J. Ford and Patricia Lynn-Ford Scholarship

"Steven suffered a serious health issue and, sitting at his bedside, I had time to reflect on what was important in our lives," Patricia recalls. "St. John's Law brought us together and gave us both satisfying careers. So, when Steven turned 60 in 2019, we decided to establish a scholarship to pay it forward to alma mater. We both take pride in our profession and hope the scholarship provides encouragement to aspiring lawyers."

Caroline Fish '18

Associate

Latham & Watkins

“Giving is a way for me to pay forward in a small way the generosity that St. John’s Law showed me when I was a student, and to support current students in areas I care about. I landed where I am today because of the Law School, its programs, and its people, and donating is an expression of my gratitude for that support and my
enthusiasm that it continues long into the future.”

Megan Quail '13

Managing Director & Head of R&W

VALE Insurance Partners

“I support St. John’s Law because the support of the Law School and other alumni has been critical to my success in the field. Giving back
is an easy way to enhance the value of my own law degree. It also helps to ensure that St. John’s strong reputation as a top New
York City law school endures, benefitting all of us who now—or who will one day—call it alma mater.”

Denise '90 & Michael Mattone '91

Center for Law and Religion

In December 2023, Dean Michael A. Simons announced that the Center for Law and Religion at St. John’s Law will be named in honor of alumni Denise Melillo Mattone and Michael X. Mattone, in recognition of their transformative gift to endow the Center’s activities. The multimillion-dollar gift will allow the Center to offer new educational programs and expand its impact as a hub for exploring issues of law and religion in the United States and around the world.

“Denise and I are pleased to support the Center,” Michael Mattone says. “It plays a key role in providing a forum for scholarly dialogue on the interplay of law and religion, and we’re eager to see that important work evolve and shape discourse nationally and globally.” 

Julia Remick '26

As a judicial summer intern in Judge Seybert’s chambers, Remick is one of the students who has been impacted by Judge Seybert’s generosity. “By observing Judge Seybert on the bench, I’ve learned the importance of understanding all the aspects of an issue. The Judge emphasizes that my generation is the future of the legal profession and, based on her insight, I’ll continue to be curious and open to new perspectives. As a first-generation law student, I’ve appreciated the guidance and mentorship from the Judge and her clerks, who have provided advice and guidance as I navigate decisions surrounding my future career. I’m grateful for the opportunity to begin my legal career in public service, and my experiences will inform my professional decisions in the years to come.”  

Shania Vincent ‘24

Hon. Charles B. Rangel ‘60, ‘83HON Scholarship  

“The support I received from the Hon. Charles B. Rangel ‘60, ‘83HON Scholarship has meant the world,” she says. “I wouldn’t have experienced the success I had in law school without it. Because of the Scholarship, I filled my time with studying and unpaid internships that helped advance my educational goals. Now, I hope to pay forward the support I received and alleviate the financial burden from a future law student.” 

Peja Breuler ‘26

SHEro Challenge and 
Summer Public Interest Fellowship

“Since I began my legal education at St. John’s, I’ve been drawn to public interest work and initiatives,” he says. “When I found out I was selected for a summer internship with Hon. Mark W. Pedersen, U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Western District of New York, I knew the experience would be life changing. I couldn’t wait to learn the law hands on, and enhance my writing, advocacy, and research skills. But I couldn’t afford to take an unpaid job without working part time to cover expenses. So, when I learned I received a Fellowship through the SHEro Challenge, I was incredibly grateful.”   

Ryan Pugh '24

Class of 1982 Scholarship

“One of the main reasons I chose to attend St. John’s Law was the extensive alumni network. Just by being a graduate of the Law School, I’ll start my career with a tremendous advantage. There’s nothing more satisfying than helping others, and as I work toward a successful career in law, I hope to provide the same kind of generosity the Class of 1982 awarded me.” 

Sarah Umstadt '24

Adam '97 and Faye Hakki Scholarship

"To focus solely on my education at St. John's Law is a privelege, and thanks to the scholarship support I received, I can put my energy toward success in the classroom, at my internships, and in co-curricular activities. This summer, I was an associate at Shearman & Sterling, where I was surrounded by St. John's Law alumni. They welcomed me and advocated on my behalf. As I enter the practice, I hope to be able to provide the same support to students in my workplace, through alumni events, or as an alumna of the St. John's Law Review."

Jaden Thornton '24

Federal Scholar

"Alumni play a crucial role in shaping the future of the legal profession. By funding scholarships and offering mentorship, they ensure that talented individuals have access to high-quality legal education. Alumni giving also empowers a diverse and representative group of individuals to pursue a legal career. Through the generosity of St. John's Law alumni, I was able to spend my 1L summer interning in the chambers of Hon. P. Kevin Castel '72SVC, '75L, '04HON. The experience was truly a blessing, and it wouldn't have been possible without the Federal Scholars program. That support is why I love being a part of the St. John's Law community!"

Kelly Donovan '24

Roy L. Reardon Scholarship

Elsie Morris Bailyn, Esq. Scholarship

Federal Scholar

"The alumni-funded scholarships I received helped to relieve a significant financial burden," says Donovan. "Having that support also motivated me to seek out mentorships and career advice from our talented, diverse, and hard-working alumni. I knew they were invested in my success and welcomed the connection." Now, Donovan looks forward to inspiring future St. John's lawyers as they chart their path in the profession. "I'll always remember the gratitude I've felt as a scholarship recipient," she says. "For the rest of my career, I hope to make a lasting impact, just like the impact alumni generosity has had on me."