Carolina Law’s Festival Brings Generations Together

Carolina Law’s Festival of Legal Learning drew its largest crowd yet this February, as over 100 alumni returned to Chapel Hill for what Richard R. Daugherty ’01 calls an “off-season homecoming.” The February 7 gathering sparked meaningful connections between seasoned practitioners and eager law students. 

“When we talk to alumni about what brings them back to Carolina Law, CLE opportunities, engaging with faculty, and meeting current students consistently top the list,” notes Brian Meacham ’03, Law Alumni Association president. “This Festival delivers on all three while giving back to our alumni community.” 

The alumni program featured insights from beloved faculty and accomplished graduates. Professor Donald Hornstein opened with a discussion on climate and insurance resilience, followed by Professor Rick Su’s immigration law update. The Supreme Court roundup —featuring Professors Maxine Eichner, Andy Hessick, Mary-Rose Papandrea, and North Carolina Solicitor General Ryan Park — sparked particular interest among attendees. 

Alumni speakers David Kouba ’02 of Arnold & Porter and Alison Grounds ’01 of Troutman Pepper brought current industry perspectives, addressing mental health in legal practice and artificial intelligence’s impact, respectively. Dean Martin H. Brinkley ’92 concluded with his signature historical perspective on the law school’s evolution. 

Alongside the alumni event, Kilpatrick Townsend sponsored the Student Festival of Legal Learning, demonstrating its commitment to developing future legal talent. The firm, which counts over 30 Carolina Law graduates among its attorneys, including firmwide chair Vaibhav “Wab” Kadaba ’97, has built strong ties with the school. “The Student Festival provides professional development training essential for building a legal career,” explains Shawn McKenna, senior director of employer engagement. 

The day culminated in an evening reception where students and alumni connected, strengthening Carolina Law’s tradition of mentorship and community across generations.  

With the event’s growing popularity and limited capacity, early registration for the 2026 Festival is strongly encouraged. Stay informed about upcoming alumni events, career development, and engagement opportunities by subscribing to the Carolina Law Alumni Brief.