George and Sallie Gill of Barrington, Illinois, Honor Their Brother and Brother-in-Law
ABOVE: Attendees of a recent luncheon celebrating the endowment and naming of the John Gill Pre-Law Program were, from left, Dr. Rock Jones, Sallie Gill, George Gill, Hendrix President Karen Petersen, Hendrix Provost Dr. Teresa Garrett, Marjem Gill, John Gill, and Hendrix Vice President for Advancement Dr. Meredith Brunen.
CONWAY, Arkansas (December 5, 2024) – Hendrix College proudly announces a gift from George and Sallie Gill of Barrington, Illinois, to support the College’s pre-law program in honor of their brother and brother-in-law, John Gill. This generous contribution will officially rename the program as the John Gill Pre-Law Program at Hendrix College.
John Gill, a distinguished attorney and revered figure in the Arkansas legal community, dedicated his 60-year career to the pursuit of justice and public service. A Hendrix alumnus and graduate of Vanderbilt University School of Law, Gill held numerous esteemed positions, including President of the Arkansas Bar Association and membership in the American College of Trial Lawyers. As Senior Counsel at the Little Rock law firm Gill Ragon Owen, P.A., his unwavering commitment to legal excellence and ethical leadership has shaped Arkansas’s legal landscape and inspired countless aspiring lawyers.
The newly established John Gill Pre-Law Program Endowed Fund will be managed by Hendrix College to enhance opportunities for students aspiring to enter law school or pursue careers benefiting from a legal education.
“This gift reflects the unwavering commitment of our alumni and friends to champion the academic and professional development of Hendrix students,” said Hendrix President Karen Petersen. “The John Gill Pre-Law Program exemplifies our dedication to preparing leaders poised to make a meaningful contribution in the legal field and beyond.”
Hendrix’s pre-law program boasts an 87% law school acceptance rate, with students scoring above the national average on the LSAT. This endowment will provide enhanced resources and opportunities for students, further strengthening their preparation for careers in law and leadership roles in related fields.
The endowment’s initial initiatives include:
“These enhancements will provide pre-law students with a strong foundation as they prepare for the challenges of law school,” said Dr. Teresa Garrett, Executive Vice President and Provost. “This endowment reflects Hendrix College’s commitment to academic excellence, equipping our students with the knowledge and experiences they need to thrive in a competitive legal field.”
The John Gill Pre-Law Program will elevate Hendrix College’s already strong commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and leadership preparation. Students participating in the enhanced program will benefit from experiences that extend beyond the classroom, ensuring they are well-prepared for the next steps in their legal careers.
George Gill shared his reflections on honoring his brother’s legacy and supporting future leaders.
“It is a privilege to help carry forward my brother John’s legacy through this program,” he said. “We are eager to see Hendrix’s pre-law students thrive with the resources this endowment provides, equipping them to excel in their legal careers and meet the challenges of tomorrow.”
About Hendrix College
Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is featured in Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges and celebrated among the country’s leading liberal arts colleges for academic quality, engaged learning opportunities and career preparation, vibrant campus life, and value. The Hendrix College Warriors compete in 21 NCAA Division III sports. Hendrix has been affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.
“… Through engagement that links the classroom with the world, and a commitment to diversity, inclusion, justice, and sustainable living, the Hendrix community inspires students to lead lives of accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy.” —Hendrix College Statement of Purpose