Though they graduated from Seton Hall Law over 40 years ago, Kevin ’73 and Nan ’74 Prongay, have kept close ties with their alma mater, so maybe it’s not so surprising that their son, Robert ’08 is also a proud alumnus. As Seton Hall Lawyers, the Prongay family all feel strongly about being loyal supporters: “We wanted to give back to the school that launched us on the profession we so enjoy,” says Nan. "Seton Hall Law gave me an opportunity for a legal career at a time when not many women were attending law school. The education I receivedprovided me a foundation to build on,and the skills I needed, no matter what area of the law I chose to practice.The law school was always welcoming and treated Kevin and I like family."
Robert, too,feels strongly about advocating and staying connected, proclaiming: "I give back because I am very thankful for how well Seton Hall Law prepared me for my career and I want to help ensure that the school continues to prepare excellent and successful future lawyers and business people.”
Kevin, a retired plaintiff’s attorney, and Robert both concentrate on securities and antitrust; and Nan, also now retired, spent much of her career with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Kevin credits his success to being on the cutting edge of trends in the law. “It’s like playing baseball or tennis,” explains Kevin. “It is not where the ball is, but where it is going to be. What are the emerging areas of the law, where are practices of law going?”
Although Robert’s father’s office was across street from his grade school, he didn’t start off with a burning desire to become a lawyer. It was, in fact, an effort to overturn a parking ticket that kindled his interest, an interest that was fanned when he sat in on a constitutional law class.Today, Robert, a partner at Glancy Prongay & Murray in California, advises young lawyers to take initiative.
“Ask questions, don’t be afraid,” advises Robert. “Dig in and research, learn the facts, and trust yourself. Go out on a limb and be willing to make mistakes.”
As the saying goes, it’s all in the family.
