Harvard Law School would not be the same without the philanthropic support of our alumni and friends. In appreciation of our most generous and steadfast supporters, we offer special recognition through the following donor societies.
Third Century Society
As Harvard Law School embarks on a third century, we are profoundly grateful for our most dedicated benefactors, past and present. In appreciation of the generous alumni and friends whose philanthropy transformed the Law School and left an indelible mark, the Third Century Society honors those who have made gifts of $1 million or more over their lifetimes or through their estates.
Dean’s Circle
The Dean’s Circle recognizes alumni and friends whose leadership support enables the dean of Harvard Law School to shape the future of legal education, to fund the latest innovations, to advance the mission of HLS, and to invest in today’s outstanding law students—and tomorrow’s lawyers and leaders. Dean’s Circle members made generous gifts of $100,000 or more in a fiscal year.
Langdell Society
Named after Christopher Columbus Langdell, the dean of Harvard Law School from 1870 to 1895 who transformed American legal education by introducing the standard first-year curriculum and developing the case method, the Langdell Society recognizes generous alumni and friends whose contributions support the continued excellence of Harvard Law School. Langdell Society members made gifts of $10,000 to $99,999 in a fiscal year.
Langdell GOLD Society
In special appreciation of young alumni whose early-career generosity is integral to the growth and future success of HLS, GOLD (graduates of the last decade) alumni who made gifts of $5,000 or more in a fiscal year are recognized as members of the Langdell GOLD Society.
1817 Society
Since Harvard Law School’s founding in 1817, the philanthropic spirit and loyalty of alumni and friends have allowed HLS to fortify its position as the pinnacle of legal education. The continuity of support from consistent donors provides stability in the Law School’s capacity to innovate, educate, and inspire. The 1817 Society recognizes those who contributed to HLS for five or more consecutive years. Members of the 1817 Society represent every class from 1949 to 2020.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Society
Justice Holmes embodied intellectual achievement, integrity, and service to the greater good. Members of the Oliver Wendell Holmes Society pay tribute to Justice Holmes’ legacy through their own thoughtful planning and generosity. HLS gratefully recognizes the philanthropy and foresight of our alumni and friends who have established planned gifts as members of the Oliver Wendell Holmes Society.
Harvard Law School Report of Gifts
HLS supporters also receive special recognition in the annual Harvard Law School Report of Gifts. We are honored to share each year’s Report of Gifts exclusively with our donors.