Raleigh Newman, Class of 1967
After a long day working the fields in the sweltering heat to support his family, Raleigh Newman (’67) knew two things from a young age: he wanted to set himself on the path to excellence and success and he never wanted to be a burden to his grandparents. Although he did not follow a direct path to success, the trials and tribulations he faced along the way made the result more meaningful.
Newman was primarily raised by his grandparents in Big Lake, Louisiana, about 17 miles south of Lake Charles, where his grandfather introduced him to hunting. He learned how to hunt out of necessity rather than as a hobby, but it would become a passion that actually led to some fame and fortune.
Newman operated a couple of sporting goods stores in his career, selling his first store “Raleigh’s Sports Haven” to study pre-law at McNeese State University. He also held many local, state, and regional hunting titles, which led to his appearance on the CBS program “To Tell the Truth.” He stumped a celebrity panel who didn’t believe he was both the World Champion Duck and Geese caller. In addition to an all-expense paid trip to New York City, he received the grand prize of $1,000. Or at least he should have, anyway. His winnings were stolen before he returned home. A tragedy in its own sense, Newman faced other hardships in his life that some would say cost him more than a grand.
He lost his wife Mary Nell Richard in 1963 to cancer. She was 32 years old. Newman dropped out of his first semester of college to marry Nell. He supported his budding family by working several odd jobs while, eventually, completing his undergraduate degree at McNeese. He was about to begin law school when Nell grew ill. He put his education on hold once more to seek out the best medical treatment for her in hopes of a cure.
Despite the jarring circumstances of losing his wife and being left to raise their two children, Newman was determined to get his JD. He packed up his family, moved to Baton Rouge, and enrolled at LSU Law. Once again, working his way through school, he completed his law degree without any student debt. He was even allowed to work on a farm on Highland Road during his first year of law school to support his family and his education.
In his third year, he competed in the Robert Lee Tullis Moot Court competition with former Congressman John Breaux (’67) and won. Newman graduated as a member of the Order of the Coif and was later inducted into the LSU Law School Hall of Fame in 1987.
Newman built a prolific law career handling a number of high-profile plaintiff cases and dabbled in some business ventures including real estate and commerce. He attributed his success to the education he received at LSU Law and, in 2010, established the Raleigh Newman Endowed Scholarship. His scholarship has helped numerous law students follow their own paths to success and excellence.
Despite the unfair events that occurred in his life, Newman generously dedicated his time to serving the community. One of his most notable philanthropic endeavors was his support of the annual Black-Tie Gala of the Calcasieu Parish Medical Society and Alliance that benefited the Calcasieu Community Clinic.
After graduation, he moved back to Lake Charles where he remarried, and his family grew with stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Newman passed away in June 2021.
About the Scholarship:
Recipients of this scholarship must be full-time students at the Law Center, and preference shall be given to a student who demonstrates strong academic performance. Financial need may be a consideration.
