George Fleming
In 2005, George Fleming, a distinguished trial attorney from Texas and an alumnus of UT Law, generously donated $500,000 to facilitate a significant overhaul of the ground-floor dining commons at the Law School. This revamped space was christened "George's Café" in recognition of Fleming's remarkable contribution.
The contribution was sourced from the Fleming Endowment, which was founded back in 1997 by George Fleming himself. Fleming, who obtained his bachelor's degree in 1968 and his juris doctor degree in 1971 from The University of Texas at Austin, later went on to establish the Houston-based law firm of Fleming and Associates in 1981. His legal career gained national acclaim as he represented plaintiffs in mass tort and consumer litigation cases.
According to the Dean of the Law School, Fleming's relationship with the institution has been nothing short of exemplary. The substantial gift was poised to elevate the Law School's environment significantly. At the time, the funds were directed towards establishing an a new dining and congregational space for students, staff, and faculty members. In essence, to enhance the overall student experience. The Dean expressed immense gratitude for Fleming's benevolence and support.
The construction of the new café commenced on January 2006, with completion and a grand opening during the fall semester of the same year. The café's design was crafted to accommodate diverse seating arrangements to cater to various student activities, including intimate student organization gatherings and study sessions.
Fleming himself expressed profound gratitude for the education he received at UT Law School. He envisioned that this donation would bring about positive changes in the lives of every student who walks through the halls of Townes Hall. He particularly looked forward to the revitalization of the dining commons, which he believed would evolve into a cherished space where students could convene, unwind, converse, and study—a place that will hold significant importance in their memories of their time at the Law School.