Gay-Straight Legal Alliance (GSLA) Makes Donation to PFLAG

Washburn University School of Law's Gay-Straight Legal Alliance (GSLA) donated $1,438.37 to the Lawrence/Topeka Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) in memory of Jason Dockins during a program held at the law school on October 20, 2011. "Jason was a dear friend of mine and was very active with PFLAG of the Flint Hills," said third year law student Katy Tompkins. "When we discussed doing a fundraiser in Jason's honor we chose PFLAG of Lawrence/Topeka because of how much the organization meant to him. Jason was a champion of not only the LGBT rights movement but also a champion of civil rights for all individuals. His passion was unparalleled by anyone I have ever met in my life."

Funds donated to PFLAG were raised through a "Donut Fundraiser" in which Washburn Law professors purchased donuts by the dozen to give to their students during class. Twenty-seven professors and staff participated by either ordering donuts or making cash donations. In addition, GSLA members baked and sold cookies, brownies, and breads. A substantial donation was also received from the Topeka law firm of Palmer, Leatherman, White & Dalton.

In accepting the donation, chapter president Sonja Feist said the funds may be used to contribute to a new college scholarship program for LGBT youth and indicated the scholarship may be named after Jason. GSLA plans to continue working with PFLAG to establish the scholarship fund.