Scholarship Gala Celebrates Students, Generosity, and Lasting Impact

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW | APRIL 2, 2026

Held at the McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center, the Gala brought together generations of Texas Tech lawyers to honor this year’s distinguished award recipients and invest in the future of the Law School. Thanks to the generosity of those in attendance, more than $75,000 was raised in support of student scholarships, creating meaningful opportunities for current and future students.
 
A significant part of that impact was made possible by Greenberg Traurig, the event’s Premier Diamond Scholarship Sponsor. The firm established the Karen M. Kennard '88 Endowed Scholarship, a meaningful gift that honors Karen’s distinguished career and ensures her example will continue to inspire generations of Texas Tech Law students.

Throughout the evening, one theme remained clear: scholarships change lives. Attendees heard firsthand how scholarship support opens doors, making it possible for students to choose Texas Tech Law, pursue their goals, and fully engage in the law school experience. These moments served as a powerful reminder that behind every gift is a student with potential, ambition, and a future waiting to unfold.

The evening also celebrated the extraordinary accomplishments of this year’s honorees.

The Distinguished Service Award was presented to The Honorable Larry Doss '99 of the Texas Seventh Court of Appeals. A leader in appellate law and a longtime supporter of Texas Tech Law, Larry has spent more than two decades mentoring students and coaching advocacy teams. Taking the stage with humor and warmth, he encouraged students to step forward with confidence and embrace the process of growth. Drawing on lessons from mentors who helped him see that he belonged, he reminded students that Texas Tech Law is a place where they are not competing for a seat at the table—they are already part of the team. Here, growth comes through doing, not waiting until you feel ready.

The Distinguished Alumni Award honored three graduates whose careers reflect excellence, leadership, and impact.

Catherine “Cat” Baen '88, a nationally respected criminal defense attorney, has tried more than 100 jury cases and built a reputation for strategic advocacy and unwavering client commitment. In her remarks, she reflected on the collaborative culture of Texas Tech Law and the lifelong relationships it fosters, emphasizing that the ability to communicate and connect with others remains one of the most valuable skills a lawyer can develop.

Jay Harvey '82, a board-certified personal injury trial lawyer and a leader in the profession, shared a message grounded in discipline and perseverance. He encouraged students to “do the work,” emphasizing that success is built through consistency, effort, and confidence in the foundation provided by the Law School.

Karen M. Kennard '88, Co-Managing Shareholder of Greenberg Traurig’s Austin office and a respected leader in government law and public service, delivered a personal and moving reflection. She spoke about resilience, purpose, and belonging, reminding students that they do not need permission to succeed. They are already part of the Texas Tech Law community and capable of more than they may realize.

Foundation Board President Tom Hall '81 reinforced the evening’s central message: Texas Tech Law is a place where opportunity is created and shared. He celebrated the Law School’s continued momentum, celebrating the growth of its endowment and its national leadership in advocacy. Tom emphasized that the Law Schoo’s success is driven by a community willing to invest in students and in each other.

At its heart, the Scholarship Gala is about more than a single evening; it is about what happens because of it. It is about students who can say yes to law school, graduates who go on to serve their communities, and a network of alumni and friends who continue to give back.

The evening reflects the very best of Texas Tech Law and leaves no doubt about the impact of generosity on our students.

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