Scholarship fund in Summer's memory unites class of '85, raises over $100K

On January 14, 2016, Daniel Summer 85L, age 55, died in his home after a long and courageous battle with ALS. Dan is survived by his beloved wife Chandelle, his father Mory Summer, his sister Jenny, and his children, whom he adored: Joey, Jack, Jake, Jeffrey, and Georgia Summer. He is also survived by an Emory Law community of classmates who were determined to honor his life through a scholarship. The pooled scholarship fund, currently being called the Daniel Summer 85L Memorial Scholarship, has already raised more than $100,000.

Peter V. Hasbrouck 85L, the lead fundraiser in this effort, said, “Speaking for his 1985 classmates, we hope this scholar- ship will help fund the next generation of Emory lawyers who are vigorous advocates, empathetic counselors, loving and devoted spouses and parents, and joyous celebrators of life — just like Danny!” Hasbrouk is aided in this effort by Ray Giudice 80C 85L, Keith Lindsay 85L, and Wade Stribling 85L.

Summer attended the University of Wisconsin - Madison, where he graduated with a bachelor of arts in economics with honors in three years. He moved to Atlanta to attend Emory University School of Law, graduating in 1985. Summer spent his first few years in practice with the Hall County District Attorney’s Office, where he distinguished himself as a tremendously successful trial lawyer. He entered private practice in 1989 with his wife and law partner, Chandelle, and they practiced law together for more than 25 years.

Summer’s many significant contributions to the practice of criminal defense include a ground-breaking genetic defense in a capital murder case, the repeal of mandatory life sentences for certain felonies, and establishing new protections for criminal defendants at trial. His leadership in the legal community was recognized in 2011 when he was selected by the governor to serve on the Judicial Nominating Commission.

One of Summer’s passions was his love for and the preservation of the historic treasures of his community. He realized his vision for Gainesville’s downtown square by restoring and renovating many of its original landmarks. One need only walk the downtown square to appreciate his architectural achievements and artistic contributions, such as the Coca-Cola mural.

Since his death, many have honored his legacy with various efforts, including the establishment of the Emory Law scholarship in his name, numerous complementary resolutions by the Georgia Legislature and US House of Representatives, and a life-sized statue carved from a tree trunk on historic Green Street in Gainesville, Georgia.

For more information about this scholarship, contact Sarah King in the Emory Law Office of Development and Alumni Relations. Contribute to the fund at law.emory.edu/alumni/give-now/ by marking your donation for Daniel Summer 85L.