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Scott and Pamela Jeeves have long valued the University of Florida education that put them on the path toward successful careers as lawyers. But they didn’t expect their two children would both end up following in their footsteps by attending their alma mater.

That pleasant surprise turned out to be a chance for the couple to renew their connection to the university and consider how they could support the next generation of Gators.

“We had amazing opportunities at the University of Florida, and we wanted to pay it forward,” said Scott (Political Science ’88). His own experience as a student in the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, he said, gave him a broad foundation that prepared him to handle a breadth of work in the business world and the legal field.

Scott and Pamela joined the UF Parent & Family Philanthropy Council, whose members provide guidance and assist in university initiatives, and soon identified where they could make an impact. Recalling how pivotal their undergraduate experiences were in shaping their future careers, the two lawyers dedicated a gift to further pre-law initiatives in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

“We saw a way to fill a niche and support something we found really important,” said Pamela (Finance ’88, JD ’92). For those considering law school, early exposure to different areas of the law — such as internships and speaker series — can offer the confidence that it’s the right fit. From there, LSAT preparation, guidance through the application process, and one-on-one advising can help set students up for future success. The Jeeves’ gift will ensure that the college’s Academic Advising Center, home to these pre-law initiatives, will thrive in their goal to assist students who have an eye on law school.

“We hope our support opens up doors for people,” Scott said.

To learn more about family giving, contact alumni@clas.ufl.edu.

This story appears in the fall 2021 issue of Ytori magazine. Read more stories from the issue.