Sept. 9, 1929 - April 20, 2026
Few individuals have embodied the story and spirit of Cooley Law School more profoundly than Polly Brennan. While generations of graduates have come to know the vision and determination of Cooley’s founder, the late Michigan Supreme Court Justice Thomas E. Brennan Sr., those closest to the law school recognize that behind that vision stood a steadfast partner whose belief, sacrifice, and encouragement helped turn an ambitious dream into a lasting institution.
To many in the Cooley community, Polly was far more than the wife of the school’s founder. She was a witness to the law school’s earliest moments, a trusted advisor during its most uncertain days, and a constant source of encouragement for those who supported her husband’s vision. Judge Brennan himself often referred to her lovingly as his “sainted wife, Polly,” a tribute that reflected both his affection and his deep appreciation for her unwavering support.
Polly understood better than anyone the motivation behind her husband’s determination to establish a new law school in Michigan during the early 1970s. At a time when law school admissions were extraordinarily competitive and opportunities were limited to only a select few, Judge Brennan believed deeply that legal education should not be reserved exclusively for the privileged or traditional student. He envisioned a law school that would open doors to working adults, first-generation students, and aspiring lawyers who otherwise might never have had the opportunity to pursue the profession.
As a family raising six children, the Brennans took a leap of faith and opened Cooley Law School in 1972. From that moment forward, Polly became one of Cooley’s earliest champions.
Polly embraced the school’s mission not through titles or recognition, but through action. In Cooley’s early years, Polly registered students herself, and would set up tables and chairs for class before the school had a permanent home. She helped organize what would become Cooley’s longstanding marshals program, supported faculty recruitment efforts, and played a role in bringing talented individuals into the Cooley family. Together, the Brennans nurtured the sense of community and family that became a defining characteristic of Cooley Law School.
In 2023, Cooley recognized Polly’s myriad contributions with an honorary juris doctorate degree during its 50th-anniversary celebration. While presenting her degree, Cooley Law School President and Dean James McGrath said, “In the world of academia, one of the highest honors a college, school, or university can bestow is an honorary degree. She (Polly) is one person, other than Judge Brennan, who is truly responsible for the establishment, formation, and launching of the law school.”
As Cooley celebrates the 50th anniversary of its first graduating class, Polly’s legacy continues to be felt among the thousands of graduates whose lives have been transformed by the opportunities she helped make possible.