Strategic Philanthropy
Taught by Jim Orr
Department: Griggs Center for Entrepreneurship & Philanthropy

Jim Orr is the Executive Director of the Office of Gift Planning at ACU, where he leads the university’s efforts in the area of estate, trusts and charitable gift planning.  He received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from ACU (1986), and then his law degree from the University of Texas School of Law (1989).   In 2023, he received a professional certificate as a certified specialist in planned giving through the American Institute for Philanthropic Studies at Long Beach State University.

Prior to his employment with ACU, he was engaged in the private practice of law for 25 years, and founded the firm of Francis & Orr, LLP, where he concentrated his practice in the area of commercial and business litigation.  In addition to appearing before numerous state and federal district courts throughout Texas, he also represented clients before the various appellate courts, including the Supreme Court of Texas, the federal First Circuit Court of Appeals and Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.  He is also a professionally-trained and court-appointed mediator.  Jim also served on ACU’s Board of Trustees from 2002 – 2014.

Jim and his wife, Elaine, have two adult children, who are both married.  Jim and Elaine also have two granddaughters.  In addition to spending time with family, Jim enjoys staying active with recreational sports, reading, traveling, and gardening.