College of Law Professor and Director of Clinical Programs Joy Radice was honored this week at the YWCA of Knoxville and the Tennessee Valley Tribute to Women awards ceremony for her contributions to education.
In July, the organization announced the 21 Knoxville-area women selected as finalists “who exemplify the YWCA’s mission to empower women and eliminate racism.” Both Radice and College of Law Professor Joan Heminway were among the finalists.
The awards acknowledge contributors in the seven categories of arts and culture; business and industry; community enhancement; racial and social justice; science technology and environment; education; and emerging leader.
Radice, who has dedicated her legal career to representing those who cannot afford legal assistance, said she is humbled to have been selected.
”There are so many incredible women throughout East Tennessee who make such invaluable contributions to our community,” Radice said. “I feel privileged to be a part of this group and to be recognized for the work we are doing in the Legal Clinic, but our work is certainly a team effort.
“The mission of the YWCA inspires us all to do more, and this tribute to women recognizes that we can all push that mission forward in our own spaces to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote the dignity of all.”
Under Radice’s leadership, the College of Law’s nationally acclaimed Legal Clinic was recognized in July by the Tennessee Justice Center. The clinic earned the Pro Bono Firm of the Year award for the pro bono contributions of the college’s faculty and students. It was the first time the honor has been given to a university group rather than to a private law firm.
And in May, the Legal Clinic was awarded $100,000 from the Tennessee Bar Foundation to fund a project that will offer civil legal assistance to rural East Tennesseeans. The project, ExpungeTN, aims to lift barriers for those who want to clear their criminal records and rebuild their lives.
Radice joined the UT College of Law faculty in August 2012 and became director of the UT Legal Clinic in 2019. She teaches criminal law and works with students through the Legal Clinic’s advocacy and expungement efforts. She is a graduate of Harvard Law School.