Endowment Names former Ambassador as Outside Counsel

The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities (the Endowment) today announced that it has engaged former U.S. Ambassador, David H. Wilkins, as outside general counsel. “When our current counsel opted to step aside for personal health reasons, we immediately spoke to David Wilkins about his interest in working with the Endowment,” said Endowment President Carlton Owen. “We can’t think of anyone with deeper background, understanding, and interest in the important work of the Endowment, or with greater credibility and relevant experience. It’s a perfect fit and we are so glad that he shared our interest in collaborating.”

Wilkins is a partner with Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP, one of the nation’s top law firms, with offices in Greenville, SC; Washington, DC, and beyond. Since the Endowment’s inception in September 2006, legal support had been provided by the Watkins Ludlam Winter & Stennis firm of Jackson, Mississippi, with partner David Grishman serving as principal. At its April 2011 Board of Directors meeting in Dallas, Texas, the Endowment Board expressed appreciation to Mr. Grishman for his dedicated service to the organization. At that same meeting the Board cast a unanimous vote to engage Ambassador Wilkins and Nelson Mullins. Mr. Wilkins’ service to the Endowment begins immediately.