Sue Farina, an arbitrator and attorney who serves on the boards of several small companies, and her husband, Dino Farina, a mechanical engineer and entrepreneur, share what inspired them to make a bequest to Boston College Law School—and how they can help generations of future students pursue their own career aspirations.
Why did you choose to study at BC Law School?
SF: After a career in business, I decided to go to law school because I wanted an intellectual challenge in my professional life. I have always been fascinated by the power of words and how laws shape society. I had heard about BC Law’s supportive atmosphere and collegial reputation and I was impressed with its alumni. When I visited the campus, students were smiling and I knew that was where I wanted to be.
What BC Law professor made the biggest impact on you?
SF: 1L was quite a year. In Francine Sherman’s Legal Reasoning, Research, and Writing Program, I learned persuasive writing and in-depth research—tools that I still use nearly every day.
Do you have a legal role model or mentor?
SF: Yes—I worked extensively with Gary Greenberg ’74 in my first law firm job. I learned a lot about being an effective advocate. He has an excellent strategic mind and I have so much respect for him.
DF: Like a good coach, he knew how to challenge Sue to be at her best and help keep her eye on the prize.
How has the current pandemic impacted you day-to-day?
DF: When Sue was in-house counsel and then president at my company a few years ago, she was exactly what we needed. Now that we are both working at home, we can see how much we enjoy partnering on things again.
What led you to make a bequest to BC Law School?
SF: We both appreciate the opportunities our education has given us. Together we decided to leave the bulk of our estate to our alma maters. I would like to ease the financial stress for some BC Law students, so they can use their degree in areas where their passions lie.
DF: We thought about this for a long time. We both understand the value of education.
Sue and Dino Farina’s decision to include BC Law in their will allows us to celebrate their generosity during their lifetime through membership in the Shaw Society. For more information, please visit bc.edu/joinshaw.
To learn more, please visit bc.edu/LawShawSociety or contact Maria Tringale at 617-552-4751 or maria.tringale@bc.edu.