Law students of the class of 2022 were encouraged Saturday to contribute to important debates of the day and advocate for truth and inclusivity to make positive societal changes.
United States Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Bernice Donald addressed the 121 graduates at the University of Tennessee College of Law’s commencement and hooding ceremonies at Thompson Boling Arena.
Together the graduates performed more than 3,392 hours of pro bono work in the last year and more than 8,850 hours of service throughout their law school careers. They also gave nearly $51,000 to support student scholarships, faculty research and College of Law initiatives.
“You, the class of 2022, have the right stuff to be the most talented, innovative, and visionary lawyers of our time,” Donald said. “We have allowed ourselves to believe that there is a scarcity of rights; we act as if protection of my rights means a diminution of another’s rights. Justice Learned Hand cautioned us that justice must never be rationed. As lawyers, guardians of the Rule of Law, you must ensure equal justice for all.”
Donald stressed the need for future lawyers to remain patient and persistent in a time of extreme change with ever-increasing competition and technological advances that are forcing legal professionals to become more business minded.
“Be courageous and selfless enough to always exercise a measure of empathy and respect for those who may hold views and positions different than yours,” Donald said. “It is my hope that you will chart an ethical path forward, and always take the long view, knowing that the decisions you make today will influence the rest of your life.”
Graduate James Miller, who was selected by his classmates to offer an address on their behalf, praised his classmates for their ability to persevere and adapt to the challenges of attending law school during the COVID pandemic.
“While virtual school wasn’t our preferred choice, there was also something calming and perhaps equalizing in seeing our professors’ homes and meeting classmates’ pets that walked across their screens,” Miller said.
“I believe we are each well-equipped for success having learned to grapple with the expected and unexpected difficulties,” he said, “and that our experience has imbued each of us with a tenacious spirit and industrious disposition that will provide us the sure footing we need as we step forward to face new challenges.”
Interim Dean Doug Blaze, who plans to retire next month, told the class they were the perfect group of students to teach as his career comes to an end.
“At a time when we all could use a big dose of hope, you provide that and more,” Blaze said. “You are truly inspiring. So, thanks and go make a positive difference in the world. I will miss all of you.”
The ceremony can be viewed in its entirety via this link.