A LAWYER WHO STEPPED UP FOR HIS COMMUNITY AFTER A TRAGIC SHOOTING. A TRUSTEE RENOWNED FOR HIS LEGAL ACUMEN AND SERVICE THROUGHOUT NORTH CAROLINA.

Norman B. Kellum Jr. (’59, JD ’65, P ’96) and James T. “Jim” Williams (’62, JD ’66, P ’89, ’92) were named the 2014 Wake Forest Distinguished Alumni Award winners. They were recognized at a gala dinner on April 11.

Each honoree reflects the spirit of Pro Humanitate through service to community and alma mater. Nominations come from within the Wake Forest community. The Executive Committee and the Volunteer Identification Committee of the Alumni Council, which represent the Wake Forest Alumni Association, select the finalists.

James T. Williams Jr.
(’62, JD ’66, P ’89, ’92)
Greensboro, N.C.

As a standout tackle on Wake Forest’s football team in the early 1960s, James T. “Jim” Williams (’62, JD ’66, P ’89, ’92) once considered pursuing a career in the NFL until Professor of History Forrest Clonts (1920) encouraged him to attend law school.

Read more about Williams and see a tribute video »

Norman B. Kellum Jr.
(’59, JD ’65, P ’96)
Trent Woods, N.C.

After four people were critically injured following a shooting in Greenville, N.C., last summer, Norman B. Kellum Jr. (’59, JD ’65, P ’96) established a relief fund called “Greenville Strong,” for those victims and the victims of future acts of random violence. When two local high schools won state football titles, Kellum and his law firm helped the teams purchase championship rings.

Read more about Kellum and see a tribute video »