A Legacy for Animal Protection in Memory of William Reilly

The Center for Animal Law Studies (CALS) is honored to announce the establishment of the William Reilly Animal Protection Scholarship, an endowed scholarship that celebrates William Reilly’s deep love for his companion animals as well as for animals of all kinds. He was known for fondly recounting heartwarming stories of his companion animals who enriched his life. This scholarship was created in loving memory by his family, including his wife, son, and daughter-in-law, and honors the legacy of compassion he inspired in those around him.

The Reilly Scholarship will be awarded annually to one or more entering students pursuing the Animal Law LLM or MSL advanced degree, either in-person or online, beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year. The 26-credit advanced degree provides comprehensive education and training for those interested in pursuing careers making a difference for animals through law, policy, academia, and more. This impactful scholarship will recognize students who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting empathy toward animals or reducing animal cruelty through education that fosters compassion, respect, and knowledge.

Applications for the William Reilly Animal Protection Scholarship are now open, and interested students are encouraged to apply for admission to the Animal Law LLM or MSL program to begin their studies in fall 2026. All applicants who apply for admission by April 1, 2026, will automatically be considered for this scholarship opportunity. To learn more about applying to the LLM or MSL program, visit our Degree Programs page.

As an endowed scholarship, it reflects the lasting impact that legacy giving can have, promising a better world for animals by supporting students for years to come. CALS encourages anyone who shares William Reilly’s commitment to animals to consider creating a meaningful, enduring legacy through planned giving. You can learn more about CALS’ Animal Law Legacy Program here and how you can create a better future for animals through animal law.

The Center for Animal Law Studies (CALS) was founded in 2008 with a mission to educate the next generation of animal law advocates and advance animal protection through the law. With vision and bold risk-taking, CALS has since developed into a world-renowned animal law epicenter. In addition to JD study, CALS offers an advanced degree program in-person and online. CALS’ Alumni-in-Action from more than 30 countries are making a difference for animals around the world. CALS is a self-funded Center within the law school operating under the Lewis & Clark College 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, and is able to provide these educational opportunities through donations and grants.