Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro, P.C. announced on April 8 a $5 million commitment to support the establishment of a law school at The University of Texas at El Paso. The announcement was made during a celebration attended by UTEP President Heather Wilson and firm partners James Tawney, Alejandro Acosta, and Daisy Chaparro Cavazos.
The gift is significant for efforts to address the need for legal education in the region. It matches an earlier $5 million challenge grant from the Paul L. Foster Family Foundation, bringing total funds raised for the prospective law school to $10 million.
James Tawney said, “El Paso is ready for a law school that matches the scale, talent and needs of our region. This gift provides access and opportunity. Too many talented students in our region, especially first-generation and Hispanic students, face barriers to pursuing a legal education because of cost, distance, or the need to stay close to family support systems that are critical to their success. El Paso institutions have proven that when our students are able to pursue advanced degrees in their own community, they stay, build their careers here, and give back in meaningful ways.”
President Wilson said: “The legal community is answering the call to make a law school. Every day I grow firmer in my belief: There will be a law school in El Paso one day – and it will be at UTEP.”
A feasibility study commissioned by the Texas Legislature found that establishing a law school at UTEP would fill gaps in regional and state needs for legal services. The study concluded that with proper management and support over ten years—a period expected to require about $20 million plus building costs—the new institution could become self-sustaining.
UTEP Executive Vice President Andrea Cortinas said: “We are deeply grateful to James, Alex and Daisy for their leadership. Their commitment reflects dedication to the El Paso community and helps advance the work needed to bring a law school to UTEP.”
Looking ahead, UTEP plans further discussions with local leaders as well as seeking approval from The University of Texas System Board of Regents and Texas Legislature—potentially submitting a formal request during the 2027 legislative session.
