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Support the Cheslie C. Kryst Justice Fund

Honor the life and legacy of Cheslie C. Kryst with a gift to the

North Carolina Bar Foundation Open Door Fund

Make a Gift Make A Pledge

The NCBF Open Door Fellowship is a unique, competitive opportunity for first-year North Carolina law students who are members of groups that have been historically underrepresented in the legal profession, including first-generation college students and those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds. Students who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion through their activities, background, and life experiences are strongly considered for this highly sought-after fellowship.

The Fellowship provides access to hands-on legal experience through a 10-week program with an employer host as well as a professional network to create an “open door” to the legal profession.  Fellows are paid a $10,000 stipend and also participate in a professional development programming series throughout the summer with the NCBF.

The future of the Open Door Fellowship will be secured through the NCBF Open Door Fund, providing direct support for Open Door Fellows and future DEI programming for many years to come. We hope you will consider a gift or pledge to honor the legacy of Cheslie Kryst for this important initiative.

Cheslie C. Kryst (1991-2022)

Cheslie Corrinne Kryst was a remarkable woman of many talents—licensed attorney, Miss USA 2019, and Emmy Award-nominated TV presenter. Beyond her impressive accolades, Cheslie was a cherished daughter, sister, and friend whose light touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Cheslie’s brilliance and compassion were evident in all she pursued. She graduated cum laude from the Honors College at the University of South Carolina with a business degree from the Darla Moore School of Business. She continued her academic journey at Wake Forest University, earning her Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration degrees simultaneously. While at Wake Forest, Cheslie dedicated herself to mentoring at-risk teenage girls, volunteering for community initiatives, and serving as parliamentarian for the National Black Law Students Association.

After becoming a licensed attorney in North and South Carolina, Cheslie joined the prestigious Poyner Spruill law firm as a complex civil litigator. Her passion for justice shone through her pro bono work, where she advocated for inmates facing excessive sentences for low-level drug offenses—a mission inspired by Bryan Stevenson’s transformative book Just Mercy.

A gifted athlete, Cheslie was a Division I track and field competitor at the University of South Carolina, where she set records as a standout performer. Her drive and leadership extended beyond the track, as she championed causes close to her heart, including Dress for Success, where she served as an Impact Ambassador, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, where she contributed as a board member.

Cheslie’s inner grace was as striking as her outward beauty. In 2019, she made history by winning the Miss USA crown. She proudly held the title for 557 days, the longest reign in Miss USA history. Her role pageant title opened new opportunities, including becoming an entertainment news correspondent for EXTRA, where she earned an Emmy nomination.

Cheslie’s legacy is one of brilliance, resilience, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others. Her light continues to inspire and remind us of the power of compassion and excellence in all we do.

How to Donate:

  • Pledge: We welcome pledges for larger gifts, which can be paid over up to five years.  Please use the “Make a Pledge” button above.
  • Credit Card: Please use the “Make a Gift” button at the top of this page.
  • Checks: Payable to: North Carolina Bar Foundation (memo: Cheslie C. Kryst Justice Fund). Please mail checks to: NCBF, 8000 Weston Parkway, Cary, NC 27513.
  • Gift from IRA or QCD from retirement account: (memo: Cheslie C. Kryst Justice Fund).
  • Electronic Funds Transfer: (memo: Cheslie C. Kryst Justice Fund).
  • Gift of Stock: visit ncbarfoundation.org/stocks (memo: Cheslie C. Kryst Justice Fund).
  • For assistance or more information, please contact Michael Lowery ([email protected] or 919.677.0992).