Joy reverberated in the atrium at the Donald P. Klekamp College of Law at the University of Cincinnati on Friday, May 15, 2026. Laughter, smiles, heartfelt speeches and an appearance by the Bearcat made for a special afternoon for the family, friends, University of Cincinnati alumni, students, faculty and leadership who gathered to celebrate the renaming of the college.

At the heart of the celebration was Donald P. Klekamp, JD '57, surrounded by his family: children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In March, the family honored him and his incredible spirit of generosity with a $43.2 million gift to the college.

The largest gift in the college's history supports four core areas, including a robust scholarship program, experiential learning, student success and the Corporate Law Center.

A remarkable man, an extraordinary legacy

University of Cincinnati leaders including President Neville G. Pinto; Dean and Nippert Professor of Law Haider Ala Hamoudi; and UC Board of Trustees Chair Gregory Hartmann spoke about the impact the Klekamp gift will make for generations to come. Through the power of philanthropy, doors will open for students, increasing access, opportunity and possibility.

Each speaker, including son Peter Klekamp, mentioned that Donald Klekamp always puts others first and lived by his values of integrity, perseverance, generosity and service.

"Today is deeply meaningful for our family because it celebrates not only my father's accomplishments, but the kind man he is," said Peter Klekamp. "My father, Donald Klekamp, believes in hard work, integrity and responsibility. He believes success means very little unless it creates opportunities for others. He loves Cincinnati and believes deeply in the power of education to transform lives. He respects the legal profession because he understands the importance of leadership, ethics and service."

"As Dean Hamoudi says, he practices law at the highest level of competence and ethics, but more than anything, he believes in people."

Remembering Marianne Klekamp

Donald Klekamp shared that he came from humble beginnings, crediting his work ethic to his mother and his success to his late wife, Marianne Klekamp, BS '56.

"The thrill of dedication here today is somewhat subdued by the fact that my sweet wife, Marianne, is not here to enjoy it," he said. "I would not be here tonight enjoying this if not for her love, support and dedication over the years," Klekamp said. "She is as deserving as I am to receive this award."

He mentioned his love for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and the support they have given him since Marianne's death.

"The dedication to the law school in my name is significant but the love that Peter and my daughter-in-law and daughters have shown me is extremely significant."

Featured image at top: Donald P. Klekamp and family. Photo/Michael Keating for the UC Foundation.