Campbell Law 50th Anniversary Spotlight: McKinley ‘Ken’ Gray III ‘93
McKinley “Ken” Gray III ’93 is a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Employment Law. In his employment law practice, he helps employers, from start ups to Fortune 500 companies, with all types of day-to-day HR issues. He also litigates cases involving all forms of employment discrimination, wrongful discharge, EEOC matters and breach of employment contracts. Originally from New Bern, North Carolina, Gray earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1990.
Current role: Labor and Employment Practice Leader at Ward and Smith P.A.
Why Campbell Law?
Gray came to Campbell Law for its great reputation of preparing law students for the courtroom.
On practice
Gray said he was drawn to his current practice in labor and employment law because of its ability to constantly present new challenges. “No two employment situations are the same, so it keeps me on my toes.”
A lesson that stuck
“You have to put in the hard work on the front end to be better prepared than the other side.”
People who shaped you
Gray credits former Law Dean Pat Hetrick for his teaching style and easygoing nature that made class fun. He appreciated Hetrick’s genuine care for his students’ success.
Advice to current students
“Go to every class. Do the homework. Get to know your classmates and keep up with them after you graduate.”
The next 50 years
Gray feels Campbell should continue to be a leader in bar passage rates and to continue to produce lawyers who are prepared to step in the courtroom from day one. As Campbell expands, Gray encourages the school not to lose sight of the values that made Campbell special in its first 50 years.
Sidebar
Currently reading: “Remain” by author Nicholas Sparks, who is also from New Bern.
Most adventurous thing: Scuba diving
Favorite Raleigh spot: Herons at The Umstead
Proudest moment: Watching my daughter give her valedictorian speech upon graduating from high school.