Where did you go to Law School?
Tulane University for my J.D. and Sewanee, Tennessee for undergrad. It was a great experience, I enjoyed New Orleans, and it was my first time in a major city. I went for my PhD. In English. I remained in New Orleans for 9 years afterwards. Jimmy Carter was president back then. I had a clerkship with a federal judge and one with U.S. Customs Service and stayed until 1989. I remained in the federal government for about 38 years.
How long have you been practicing law? What is your focus area?
I wasn’t sure of what I wanted to do in law school. I knew I didn’t want to work for a law firm. I ended up as Agency counsel where I advised officers, personnel, and contract issues – custom enforced a lot of different laws. I was based in New Orleans, San Antonio, Washington D.C., San Diego, and Los Angeles. I retired in 2019. I also did Senior Executive service for the federal government – Pacific Trust and Territory. I enjoyed the work and did a lot of international traveling. I tried to help people apply the law to the best of their ability and defended a lot of officers.
How did you get involved with the LBF?
I thought it looked like a worthy cause and working for the government makes it difficult to do pro bono work due to potential conflict. The only option I had was to donate money to support these causes.
Being from outside of Louisiana and outside of the South, people don’t understand it. I am proud of Louisiana and New Orleans, it’s my second home.
What keeps you giving to the LBF?
The LBF supports good programs. Although I am not currently residing in Louisiana, I still have confidence in these institutions and always respected the Bar Foundation.
What advice would you give to young prospective lawyers?
I liked civil service, public trust, and serving the American people. I was able to serve a variety of people.
What’s the last book you read?
“The Immense Journey.” It is about how animals sense the world. I also read “Tyranny of the Minority” by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven Levitsky.
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
Most recently, I spent the summer touring Ireland. I have also enjoyed Berlin as well.
LBF was pleased to speak with longtime Fellow, Mary Cupp, to learn more about her and her unique contributions to the Foundation. Mary, a Fellow since 1999, currently resides in Huntington Beach, California, and continues to actively support LBF’s mission.
