“Without comparison, the scholarship was the most significant gift I have ever received. It is still hard to grasp the generosity of Mr. J.L. Weigand in establishing the scholarship.”
Joel Bannister
University of Kansas
Weigand Scholar: 2005
Hometown:
Hays, KS
Education:
B.B.A., Finance
Fort Hays State University, 2001
- Graduated magna cum laude
J.D., University of Kansas School of Law, 2005
- Kansas Law Review
Joel Bannister received his scholarship as a third year student at University of Kansas. He ranked in the top 5% of his class, served as a staff member of the Kansas Law Review. In 2002, Joel received the CALI Award in Contracts I as a result of having the top grade in the course. Joel’s Kansas work history includes Wichita law firm Martin, Pringle, Oliver, Wallace & Bauer (summer, 2003), Congressman Jerry Moran (2001-2002), and Senator Sam Brownback (summer 1999).
Joel’s charitable contributions include service through organizations such FHSU Protestant Campus Center, Habitat for Humanity, and Everybody Wins (Youth Mentoring Program).
“While many of my Ivy League counterparts on Capitol Hill questioned my decision to pass up law schools that they believed were more prestigious, I received all the reassurance I needed from Congressman Moran when I asked for his opinion. In perhaps on one of the most memorable moments of my life, he said, “Joel, what they have, you can learn; what you have, they never will.” With this lesson in mind, I was headed for the University of Kansas School of Law.”