To: The University of Tennessee College of Law Community
From: The Dean’s Circle and Alumni Council
Subject: The Values of the College of Law
On Thursday, September 22, 2016, Dean Melanie Wilson reaffirmed the University of Tennessee College of Law’s commitment “to ensuring our students learn in a welcoming, open, and inclusive community.” The Dean’s Circle and Alumni Council fully support that commitment and Dean Wilson. We unequivocally denounce all forms of discrimination and the promotion of violence, and we celebrate the college’s dedication to providing a legal education that is second to none.
For 125 years, the college has stood at the vanguard of American legal education. Our successes in clinical training, which we pioneered in 1947; theory; ethics; mentorship; pro bono service; and professional leadership all rest on the bedrock principle that inclusion is integral to excellence. The college’s primary goal is to prepare students to zealously and competently represent people of all backgrounds, and our student body, faculty, and administration reflect that aim. In times of challenge, we come together as one because we do not countenance prejudice, bias, or bigotry of any kind.
Our fidelity to these values is unwavering. We embrace differences; we do not deride them. We venerate unity and reject factionalism. And we pursue excellence, always. This is what it means to be part of the University of Tennessee College of Law.