Poyner Spruill LLP is proud to continue its tradition of service and advocacy with the third annual Service Week, honoring the life and legacy of our late colleague, Cheslie Kryst. Kryst served as an attorney and later as the firm’s Diversity Advisor, using her platform to champion social justice and support underserved communities. Her passion for volunteerism and advocacy lives on through our collective efforts each year.
From April 28-May 2, 2025, the firm’s DEI Committee organized time to give back to local organizations and raise awareness for mental health, continuing the legacy Kryst left behind. The week began with a presentation from BHS, our employee assistance program. Peter Metzner spoke to the firm about finding happiness in a busy world. He discussed actions to take on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis to build happiness and improve mental health.
Throughout the week, Poyner Spruill team members engaged in meaningful service projects to give back to their local communities. On Tuesday, volunteers assisted the Hospitality House of Charlotte with landscaping improvements. The new mulch and spring flowers helped bring joy to patients and caregivers staying at the house while receiving medical care in the area. The Raleigh office went to Haven House Services on Wednesday to clean the Second Round Boxing Gym and organize their Essentials Pantry. In Rocky Mount, Poyner Spruill volunteers partnered with Meals on Wheels on Thursday to deliver meals to seniors in the community. Service Week concluded on Friday with a Raleigh group volunteering at Inter-Faith Food Shuttle on their farm, helping to wash and box over 400 pounds of green onions.
“Service Week is an opportunity for us to come together as a firm to honor Cheslie’s memory and make a meaningful impact in our communities,” said Nina Long, the Director of Human Resources. “Cheslie’s dedication to service continues to inspire us, and we are grateful to carry forward her legacy.”
In addition to the annual Service Week, Poyner Spruill and Wake Forest University School of Law established the Cheslie C. Kryst Advocacy and Social Justice Law Scholarship in 2022. This scholarship supports students from underrepresented backgrounds who are passionate about social justice and civil rights. To contribute to the Cheslie C. Kryst Advocacy and Social Justice Law Scholarship, please visit wfu.law/cheslie.
