DURHAM, NC – The work of Durham County Commissioner Stephen J. Valentine, MSW, JD, extends far beyond the boardroom and ballot box. At North Carolina Central University School of Law, Valentine is shaping futures, restoring dignity, and redefining what community-centered leadership looks like as Director of the NCCU Veterans Law Clinic — one of the most impactful legal advocacy programs for veterans in North Carolina.
“Over the past five years, the Vet Law Clinic has established itself as a leader in veterans’ advocacy,” Valentine said. “We are back — and the best is in front of us.”
A Law Clinic Built on Vision and Firsts
The NCCU Veterans Law Clinic holds a unique distinction: it was the first clinic of its kind in North Carolina and remains the only permanent veterans law clinic housed at an HBCU law school in the nation.
Valentine credits the clinic’s foundation to the leadership of former NCCU Law Dean Raymond Peirce, state Rep. Henry “Mickey” Michaux Jr., and Professor Fred Williams, who helped position the program as a cornerstone of experiential legal education.
“Coming back to NCCU has been the honor of my career,” Valentine said. “It allows me to serve veterans while preparing the next generation of advocates to lead with purpose.”
Real Impact for Real People
Under Valentine’s leadership, the clinic has delivered measurable results:
- $700,000+ in retroactive disability compensation secured for veterans
- $400,000+ in annual ongoing benefits restored to clients
- Hundreds of veterans assisted with appeals, discharge upgrades, and benefits claims
While cases often move slowly due to their complexity and the clinic’s educational mission, outcomes have been life-changing for families navigating financial hardship, health challenges, and housing instability.
Building Careers While Serving the Community
Students in the program receive academic credit while representing real clients — gaining courtroom experience that many law graduates nationwide never touch…