Long nights studying in the basement of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College at the University of Mississippi prepared Jordan Lancaster Estes for a career arguing high‑profile cases in New York courtrooms.
Now, more than 20 years after earning her degree from Ole Miss, Estes is giving back to the program that shaped her future. The Madison, Mississippi, native has committed $50,000 to establish the Jordan Lancaster Estes Venture Endowment, which will expand research and travel opportunities for Honors College students.
A 2005 UM graduate and triple major in philosophy, mathematics and English, Estes credits the Honors College as foundational to her success.
“I met so many interesting people and learned so much,” Estes said. “The Honors College offered small discussions that strengthened my critical‑thinking skills and set me on the path to succeed. The people were the best, and there was such a sense of community. I still fondly remember studying in the basement.”
After graduating from Ole Miss, Estes earned a degree from Harvard Law School in 2008. She later served as a federal prosecutor in New York, New York, before transitioning into criminal defense work. She is now a partner at Gibson Dunn in New York.
Her decision to support the Honors College is rooted in deep appreciation.
“The institution has such a special place in my heart,” Estes said. “I went to Ole Miss and then to Harvard, but Ole Miss really shaped who I am. That led to so much of my success, and I’m very grateful.”
Honors College Dean Ethel Scurlock said the new endowment will help remove barriers for students who may not otherwise envision global or professional opportunities for themselves.
“While she lives and works in New York, Jordan understood the importance of providing strategic support to Honors College students at the University of Mississippi,” Scurlock said. “These funds will create experiences that help our students thrive in their careers.”
Jacob Ferguson, associate director of development for the Honors College, said Estes represents a growing generation of alumni who connect their professional success to their Honors College experience — and choose to pay it forward.
“Enhancing our support for student experiential opportunities is one of our top priorities,” Ferguson said. “We’re so grateful that Jordan has chosen to establish this endowment to help us in that effort, and her generosity as a young alumna is inspiring.”
To make a gift to the Jordan Lancaster Estes Venture Endowment, send a check to the University of Mississippi Foundation with the fund’s name written on the memo line to 406 University Ave., Oxford, MS 38655 or online here.
For more information about supporting the Honors College, contact Jacob Ferguson at jacobf@olemiss.edu or 662‑915‑3087.
By Michael Newsom/UM Development