The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Winston College of Law has announced the appointment of Joan Heminway as director of the Clayton Center for Entrepreneurial Law, effective August 1.
Heminway, Rick Rose Distinguished Professor of Law, joined the Winston Law faculty in 2000 and has been closely involved with the center’s growth and success. With more than two decades of experience in business law, she brings a deep understanding of the center’s mission to provide students with a comprehensive, practice-focused education in transactional law.
Founded in 1995, the Clayton Center for Entrepreneurial Law was established to strengthen business law education at Winston Law. Through its innovative curriculum and experiential learning opportunities, the center prepares students to practice transactional law at the highest levels. Under the leadership of previous directors—including professors Robert Lloyd, Carl Pierce, and George Kuney—the center earned national recognition. Brian Krumm, associate professor of law, stepped in as interim director in May of 2024 following Kuney’s retirement after 24 years of service.
“I am honored to lead the Clayton Center as it enters its next chapter,” Heminway said. “Our holistic approach to business law education not only equips students with the theoretical foundations of the field but also ensures they develop the practical skills needed to succeed in an evolving legal marketplace.”
As director, Heminway will oversee the center’s academic programs, expand professional development and experiential opportunities for students, and continue building partnerships across the university and broader business community.
The Clayton Center’s business transactions concentration remains a signature offering at Winston Law, with emphasis on real-world applications through participation in the Transactional Law Clinic, competitions, externships and internships.
Under Heminway’s leadership, the Clayton Center is poised to continue its legacy of innovation and excellence in business law education.