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Former Chief Justice Joe Greenhill with Interim Dean Cynthia Fountaine. The donation of several pieces of Justice Greenhill's papers and pieces of memorabilia will allow students and other members of the legal community the opportunity to study the former Chief Justice's work.

Former Texas Chief Justice Joe Greenhill will donate some of his papers, notes, and other pieces of memorabilia to the law school. The items will be displayed in a designated room in the Dee J. Kelly Law Library.

The donation was announced at the Chief Justice Joe Greenhill Golf Tournament on April 18. The golf tournament, which has become part of the law school alumni association’s annual reunion, was recently named in honor of the former Chief Justice, recognizing his long-time contributions to the legal profession.

Interim Dean Cynthia Fountaine said that in addition to the historical value of the donation, the items will also serve as an educational tool for years to come.

“This donation means a lot to our school, and will provide opportunities for future generations of students, scholars, and lawyers to study his work,” Dean Fountaine said. “We are honored and excited to receive Justice Greenhill’s papers and memorabilia.”

Justice Greenhill’s son, William Greenhill, announced the donation at a reception following the golf tournament. He told attendees that his father’s support of people who share in his love of the law is a matter close to his father’s heart.

In addition, Dean Fountaine announced the creation of a scholarship endowment in honor of former Chief Justice Greenhill and his generous gift to the law school.  Each year, the scholarship will be awarded to a student who demonstrates a dedication to public service, displays integrity, and excels academically. 

“This scholarship will honor the legacy of Chief Justice Greenhill,” Dean Fountaine said. “It will also encourage and enable students to follow in his path of public service.”

Former Chief Justice Greenhill has been active in the Texas legal profession for many years, including 25 years on the Supreme Court of Texas, the last ten of which he served as Chief Justice. He was first assistant attorney general of Texas under Price Daniel, who was later governor of Texas, and in 1950 was one of the co-founders of Graves, Dougherty & Greenhill in Austin. Former Chief Justice Greenhill was appointed to the Supreme Court of Texas in 1957, and in 1958 he was elected to the Court. He currently practices law as a consultant for attorneys who have cases in the Texas Supreme Court and other appellate courts. He is the author of many landmark opinions that are frequently cited in Texas courts.