MU law students will link the eighth annual “Tim Heinsz 5K Run” and “Jim Devine Memorial Dog Walk” for a second year Saturday in honor of two well-respected deceased MU law professors.
“[Heinsz and Devine] really contributed a lot to current students and past students alike, so it’s our way of giving back to them,” said organizer Kate Gallen, an MU law student.
The student-hosted event will bring runners, walkers and leashed dogs together to raise law school scholarship funds. The race will start at 9 a.m. in front of Hulston Hall.
Last year, more than 385 participants raised more than $25,000, which is close to the amount raised this year.
“It’s been wildly successful,” said Bob Bailey, an MU law professor and director of the school’s Study of Dispute Resolution center. Bailey worked with Heinsz and Devine for about 30 years.
Heinsz, a former dean of the MU School of Law, died in 2004 of a heart attack. Devine, a former associate dean of the school, died six years later of a heart attack.
Heinsz was a nationally recognized arbitrator. Bailey portrayed him as hard working, thoughtful and immensely kind.
The day after he died, Bailey received a happy birthday email from him. Heinsz had pre-sent the birthday wish.
“I immediately broke down in tears,” Bailey said. “He was my best friend.”
While cleaning out Heinsz’s office, Bailey found a cabinet drawer full of gifts that Heinsz had purchased for others.
He similarly described Devine as caring and dedicated.
Devine had three great loves: his family, swimming and dogs, which he often rescued from shelters, Bailey said.
When Devine died in 2010, students asked Bailey if they could add a commemorative dog walk to honor Devine to the Heinsz memorial run.
Gallen said both professors completely supported their students, personally and academically.
“I think the legacy that they have left on the law school is one of dedication and service,” she said.
— Lauren Foreman
“Tim Heinsz 5K Run” and “Jim Devine Memorial Dog Walk”
What: A walk, run and dog walk at 9 a.m. Saturday in front of Hulston Hall. Arrive no later than 8:30 a.m. Event will be held rain or shine.
Registration: Late registration is in the sub-plaza of Hulston Hall 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Friday and 7–8:30 a.m. Saturday. Registration is $20.
Register online at law.missouri.edu/sba/th5k/register.
Participants: All are welcome, including leashed dogs.