Upon the news of former North Carolina Governor James E. Holshouser’s death, George R. Johnson, Jr., dean and professor of law at Elon University School of Law, reflected on Holshouser’s contributions to Elon.
“Governor Holshouser was an important force in the formation of Elon University School of Law,” Johnson said. “As a member of the law school’s Board of Advisors, Governor Holshouser embodied one of Elon Law’s founding principles: that leadership and public service are essential aspects of the lawyer’s role. We valued his insights and his sterling character. He led selflessly, with distinction, professionalism and great kindness. Governor Holshouser was a towering figure in the law and public service, and we always will remember him for his contributions to our law school, to the legal profession and to the state of North Carolina.”
Holshouser served as Governor of North Carolina from 1973 to 1977, after four terms in the General Assembly, where he was Vice Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and House Rules Committee. Since leaving public office Holshouser has served in the private practice of law and in a variety of leadership roles, including special advisor to the Research Triangle Regional Partnership and Board Member or Trustee of the University of North Carolina, Davidson College and St. Andrews Presbyterian College. He became a member of the Elon University Law School Advisory Board in 2006.