Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano Donate $6 Million to Enhance Law Education and Community Engagement

Major Philanthropic Commitment to Cardozo Law School

On November 12, 2025, Kwanza Jones, a distinguished alumna from the Cardozo Class of 1999, alongside investor José E. Feliciano, announced a groundbreaking $6 million donation to the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University. This significant investment will greatly enhance the school's clinical education programs and expand its facilities, creating a new state-of-the-art space named the Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano Program for Clinical Education.

The newly developed facility is set to include modern offices, collaborative work areas, and professional meeting spaces designed to support students and faculty in their pro bono legal work. Jones and Feliciano’s investment reflects their commitment to not only advancing the education of future lawyers but also reinforcing the school’s service to the communities of New York City.

Kwanza Jones has been recognized for her leadership and dedication to equitable education. In 2024, she was honored at the 14th Annual BALLSA Alumni Celebration, where a record $60,000 was raised to fund scholarships for students facing hardships. Jones also paid tribute by performing John Lennon’s “Imagine” during a gala event at the school, showcasing her profound connection to Cardozo and its mission.

Their philanthropic journey demonstrates a deep-seated commitment to education and community service. The duo believes that by equipping students with practical skills, they can enhance their legal abilities and positively impact those around them. "Our goal is to uplift humanity and provide essential skills to students while offering communities the legal aid they require," said Jones and Feliciano.

Reflecting on her experiences at Cardozo, Jones emphasized how crucial practical learning has been for her career, stating, "The clinic programs provided me with invaluable hands-on experience that honed my skills in conflict resolution and advocacy. I am thrilled to contribute back to a law school that aligns with my vision for a brighter future."

The positive ramifications of this investment extend far beyond the Cardozo campus. By offering increased opportunities for students to engage in meaningful clinical work, the law school can significantly enhance its pro bono services to vulnerable populations, thereby safeguarding rights and affirming human dignity.

Dean Melanie Leslie, a Cardozo graduate from the Class of 1991, expressed her deep gratitude. “This transformative gift will benefit our students for generations. Kwanza and José exemplify the essence of Cardozo’s spirit, fostering educational equity and access to justice,” she stated.

Through their Kwanza Jones & José E. Feliciano Initiative, the couple has demonstrated their unwavering commitment to impact-driven philanthropy. Their $6 million commitment not only prolongs their philanthropic legacy but also amplifies their mission to strengthen institutions, uplift communities, and create a better tomorrow.

Kwanza Jones is widely recognized as a nine-time Billboard-charting artist, influential speaker, and a leader across various nonprofit boards, including The Apollo Theater and UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center. Meanwhile, José E. Feliciano is a prominent figure in the investment world, serving as Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Clearlake Capital, with numerous involvement on the boards of prestigious institutions reflecting his passion for cultural and educational advancement.

This monumental commitment from Jones and Feliciano stands as a powerful testament to the influence and importance of philanthropy in education, equipping future lawyers to support better justice and community service in New York City and beyond.