Alumni

Closing the Rural Justice Gap
June 3, 2026 11:55 am
Across Tennessee, communities are facing a growing access-to-justice crisis. In many counties, considered “legal deserts” (i.e., fewer than one lawyer per 1,000 residents), attorney shortages and limited legal services make it virtually impossible for citizens to obtain assistance with essential legal needs, including housing, family law, consumer protection, and other matters that can deeply affect their lives.

Winston Law Alumni Named Fellows of the American College of Trial Lawyers
June 2, 2026 12:53 pm
Two University of Tennessee Winston College of Law alumni have been named fellows of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the most prestigious legal associations in North America. The honor reflects the highest standards of trial advocacy, professionalism, and service to the legal profession.  Bruce McMullen (’96) and Eugene Felton, Jr.

Stephen Ross Johnson (’02) Relaunches Wrongful Convictions Clinic
January 27, 2025 3:36 pm
This past spring, Stephen Ross Johnson, ( ’02), stepped back into the classroom. He was on a mission to reestablish the University of Tennessee College of Law Legal Clinic’s commitment to bringing justice to those who have been wrongfully convicted.

Doing Good Work: John G. Brock
December 19, 2024 10:10 am
As a young high school student growing up in East Tennessee, John G. Brock (UT BA ’93, JD ’96) met a prominent local businessman who said going to law school had been a pivotal part of his success.

$1 Million Pledge from Tennessee Law Firm Supports Scholarships at Tennessee Law
October 2, 2024 11:15 am
A $1 million pledge was made on behalf of Summers, Rufolo & Rodgers, P.C., a Chattanooga-based law firm, to support students at the University of Tennessee College of Law. The gift will support scholarships for students interested in pursuing legal careers in advocacy, as well as the Douglas A. Blaze Leadership Scholarship.

Serving the State’s Law Community: Ed Lanquist
August 5, 2024 10:00 am
In June, Ed Lanquist (’88) took office as president of the Tennessee Bar Association (TBA), a statewide professional association for members of the legal community. Lanquist’s long-time involvement with the TBA includes service as general counsel for the association for six years and as vice president and president-elect since 2022.

Fran Ansley, Working With and Beside 
June 10, 2024 11:22 am
She was one of those rare intellectuals whose energy for activism matched her enthusiasm for scholarship and instruction—who was as comfortable working alongside members of the community as she was standing in a lecture hall.