capa ScholarshipS & AWARDS

Who is Nancy McLaughlin?

Nancy Carmen McLaughlin, CLAS, TPS, was a legal assistant at the Law Offices of William Schmidt for 12 years prior to her sudden death on Friday, Dec. 8, 2000.

She was dedicated, hard working, and attentive to the needs of clients and her employer. Nancy received her Certification as a Legal Assistant in 1993 from NALA. She also received a Specialty Certification from NALA and the State Bar of Texas.

Many remember Nancy as a very active member of CAPA and the Legal Assistant Division of the State Bar of Texas, now known as the Paralegal Division. She spent many hours volunteering for both organizations and motivating others to become involved themselves. She served in many capacities, most notably as Programs Chair and President of CAPA, and as Editor of the Texas Paralegal Journal, published by the Paralegal Division.

Nancy touched the lives of many people, and often you will hear them say they thought of her as family. She was an animal lover and left behind four dogs and a cat. She was a kind and generous friend and devoted her free time to animal causes, Meals on Wheels, and those in need. She is still missed sorely by her many friends.

Who is Susan Haney?

Susan Jo Norris Haney was a beloved mother, lawyer, activist, advocate and friend. She lived life on her own terms and was not one to back down from a challenge. She opened The Haney Law firm in 2001 with her daughters Amber and Caitlin. Susan loved to refer to the trio as The Haney Dream Team. Susan quickly earned a reputation as a veracious litigator with a take no sh** attitude! 

Susan gave her time to numerous organizations including; Meals on Wheels, VLS, CANLAW, NAMI-Austin, Faith United Methodist Church, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, Kingdom Kamp, Hands on Housing, and many other pro bono clinics. She was also a huge supporter of paralegals and in particular CAPA where she gave generously of her time presenting CLEs and sponsoring events. Susan helped almost anyone who crossed her path. It was in her nature and who she was. 

CAPA established the Susan Haney Community Service and Pro Bono Grant in 2021 following her passing from glioblastoma brain cancer. CAPA wants to ensure that this SUPERWOMAN'S enthusiasm for life, human rights and giving back will be remembered and celebrated by acknowledging those with the same spirit.