the Kathryn A. Belfance Scholarship Fund

The Kathryn A. Belfance Scholarship Fund was established in September 2007 by her family in honor of her 70th birthday. Kathryn (Kay) received her B.A. in English from The University of Akron (1974) and completed her juris doctorate in 1977, attending the School of Law as an evening student. During her studies, Kay worked full time as a legal secretary and was a single mother raising three children. While balancing work, family, and her studies, Kay achieved academic excellence and was an associate editor on The University of Akron Law Review.

Upon graduation, Kay entered the law profession and formed a practice with the Honorable Judge Judith Nicely. Kay went into private practice, specializing in bankruptcy and family law. An active member of the Akron Bar Association, Kay has served on numerous committees during her many years of service.

Kay is a role model for all women who aspire to serve the public as attorneys at law. A person of high moral and ethical character, Kay embodies the values of the legal profession and possesses a generosity of spirit toward her colleagues that is a rare encounter. Kay has impacted the lives of her clients and has mentored numerous young attorneys during her first 30 years of practice in Northern Ohio.

The Kathryn A. Belfance Scholarship Fund is designated for women who are members of the editorial staff of the Akron Law review. Specifically, the award is for women who exhibit financial need, with preference to those who are mothers, balancing the demands of home life and academic success. The Scholarship Committee at The University of Akron School of Law will select the recipient or recipients. Scholarship awards may cover tuition, fees, and books, all or in part.