Stanford Law School yesterday announced a $3.75 million donation from alumni John Levin and his wife will be used to establish a new public interest law center.

The John and Terry Levin Center for Public Service and Public Interest Law will make public service a significant part of every student's experience at the Stanford Law School and will allow the school to expand its existing public service programs, including its pro bono program.

"The legal profession has a special role and responsibility in our culture and part of being a professional includes serving the larger community in some way," Stanford Law School Dean Larry Kramer said.

"By making public service experience accessible and relevant, we want to inspire every Stanford Law student to use the law as a tool for positive change whatever career path they choose."

Levin graduated from Stanford Law School in 1973. His wife Terry received both her undergraduate degree and master's in physical therapy from Stanford.

"It is essential for students to have early and frequent exposure to the meaning of public service as they develop their identities as lawyers. We're pleased to support Stanford Law School's efforts to make public service a central part of the school's culture," John Levin said.

— Bay City News Service