The School of Law Celebrates the F. Michael Hart Chair in Children’s Law with Special Reception
February 3, 2014
On January 14, 2025 the School of Law held a special reception to celebrate the establishment of the F. Michael Hart Chair in Children’s Law. The event recognized the generous $2.5 million donation from David B. Martinez, Kelly Stout Sanchez, and Julio C. Romero, partners at Martinez, Hart, Sanchez & Romero P.C., and the incredible contributions of F. Michael Hart to the field of children’s law. The donors hope their contribution will create a foundation for the School of Law to become a center for children’s law, encouraging new legal professionals and future law students to undertake careers protecting and addressing critical issues faced by the children of New Mexico.
The newly-established chair honors Frederick Michael Hart (’88), a distinguished alumnus of the School of Law and partner at Martinez, Hart, Sanchez & Romero P.C. As a leading advocate and premier lawyer for children’s civil rights in New Mexico, Hart has been a trusted resource for lawyers, judges, and legislators. His dedication has made him a vital figure in the community, and the School is proud to recognize his legacy.
During the reception, Dean Camille Carey celebrated the appointment of Professor Sarah Steadman as the inaugural holder of the F. Michael Hart Chair in Children’s Law. Professor Steadman graduated from the School of Law with her J.D. in 2005 and began her teaching career with the school in 2013. She has been instrumental in developing the Child and Family Justice Clinic, launched in 2017, which focuses on providing essential legal assistance to low-income, at-risk children and their families.
The School of Law extends its deepest gratitude to the donors for their generosity, which not only honors the legacy of Mike Hart, but also strengthens the School’s ability to expand its curriculum and promote growth in the field of children’s law.
Any individual or organization may make additional gifts to this endowed fund. Learn how to donate to the School of Law.
