The University of Baylor School of Law has created the M. Stephen and Alyce A. Beard Chair in Business Transaction, thanks to a $2.5 million donation from the couple.
Stephen Beard, a 1973 graduate from the law school, was president of the Pakis, Giotes, Beard and Page, P.C. law firm in Waco, where he specialized in business and construction law. His wife, Alyce Beard, serves on the Baylor Alumni Network Board of Advocates and Baylor’s Martin Museum Board.
Proceeds from the endowment will support this faculty position in perpetuity, allowing Baylor Law to enhance practical training and scholarship, the school said in a news release.
Baylor Law has named leading national scholar and expert in business organizations law, Elizabeth Miller, the chair’s inaugural holder. Miller is an authority on Texas business organizations law as well as a nationally recognized expert on the law of limited liability companies and limited liability partnerships, according to the school.
“Steve and Alyce have truly blessed our business and transactional business program — and most importantly, our students — by their extraordinary commitment to Baylor Law. Their impact on our program will continue for generations to come and we are grateful for their dedication and stewardship,” said Dean Brad Toben.
