The Paul E. Wilson Project for Innocence & Post-Conviction Remedies – previously known as The Defender Project – was founded at KU Law almost 60 years ago. Hundreds of students have participated in the program over the years and have won more than 70 direct appeals since its rebranding in 2008.
The program has received support from many, including Robert Loyd, LLB’62, who passed away in October 2021. Loyd supported the project financially and mentored many students who are still practicing today. To honor Loyd’s contributions, his daughter, Theresa Leaming, has established the Robert W. Loyd Memorial Fund, a new fund for KU Law students.
“My father was a man with a great sense of justice,” said Leaming. “I knew the Project was near and dear to his heart and I wanted to keep his sense of generosity and justice going.”
Raised in Ottawa, Kansas, Loyd originally came to KU to study math, but his career goals changed after he attended a political science course and fell in love with the subject. After his graduation in 1958, he continued his studies at KU Law earning an LLB, a Bachelor of Laws, in 1962.
Loyd began his law career in Commerce Bank’s Trust Department, focusing on trust and probate business law and family law. He remained a dedicated supporter of KU Law and its Project for Innocence.
This fund is designed to support students involved in Project for Innocence and help cover the costs of the clinic to ensure KU Law students have the opportunity to fully litigate their cases.
“I wanted to establish the fund to help the students finish what they start,” said Leaming. “I hope that students will be able to deepen their sense of justice and get hooked on this kind of law.”
Make a gift to the Robert W. Loyd Memorial Award Fund.
– By Emma Herrman