The University of Tennessee College of Law is proud to celebrate the class of 2024. Below are a few of the stories from this incredible group of graduates.
Bryce Bradley
Atlanta, GA
Auburn University, B.S. Business Administration
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
I decided to enroll in the University of Tennessee College of Law due to its robust curriculum in transactional law and its noteworthy alumni connections. Throughout my time in law school, I pursued courses that directly matched my career aspirations. As a result, I now feel highly self-assured and capable of excelling in my forthcoming professional endeavors. I eagerly anticipate becoming part of the esteemed community of UT Law alumni, whom I’ve long admired.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
I have served as digital editor for the Tennessee Law Review, President of the Black Law Students Association, Merchandise Chair of the Student Bar Association and a member of the College of Law’s Professional Football Negotiation Team.
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
My favorite memory was sitting in the student section with my law school classmates during the Tennessee/Alabama game in Neyland Stadium when I was a 2L. We always made sure to take study breaks to have fun during football season and enjoy the perks of being a student at UT!
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law? Professor Bobby Bramhall, a graduate of the UT College of Law, has played a pivotal role in enhancing the sports law curriculum at UT. Through his courses Name, Image and Likeness in the Law and Sports Law, I have gained invaluable insights essential for success in the sports business and legal arena. He also coached our Professional Football Negotiation team this year, and it was an incredible and insightful experience for me.
What are your plans after graduation?
After taking the bar exam, I am enthusiastically gearing up to embark on a career within the sports industry, specifically athlete representation. I am appreciative of the opportunities that allow me to merge my love for sports with my legal background. Due to the support and connections fostered by the College of Law, I feel incredibly empowered and equipped as I navigate this specialized career trajectory.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
Being a graduate of the College of Law is meaningful to me because of all the incredible professors and students who have supported my personal and professional growth during my law school journey. I am super excited to join the UT College of Law alumni network and proudly wear the Power T in the next chapter of my life!
Gerrard Cox
Humboldt, Tennessee
University of Tennessee at Martin, B.S. Criminal Justice
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
I wanted to continue being a part of the UT community and thought that the best place to receive my education would be the flagship university, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Additionally, the UT College of Law features the longest-running legal clinical program in the country, and I was eager to get practical experience as a student.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
I was an active member of the Black Law Students Association, serving as vice president and two years as class representative.
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
I was honored to receive the Roy B.J. Campbelle Leadership Award at the 2024 Julian Blackshear, Jr. Scholarship Gala.
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law?
During my time in law school my clinic professors, Eric Amarante and Brian Krum, challenged me to develop solutions for complex legal scenarios that involved multiple layers of law. We would brainstorm possible solutions together and then implement the ones that we believed would be most effective in achieving our clients’ desired results. This experience was instrumental in helping me hone my legal skills and apply them to real-world situations.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduating, I plan to pursue a career in civil or criminal litigation.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
I consider myself blessed to be a part of such a distinguished group of alumni. I am inspired by the great leaders who have preceded me, and I believe it is my responsibility to leverage the knowledge and skills I have acquired to make a positive impact on society.
Brandee Dillingham
Canton, North Carolina
Western Carolina University, B.A. Political Science and International Studies
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
I chose University of Tennessee College of Law because of its program offerings, location and opportunities for hands-on learning, specifically through the legal clinic.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
I have enjoyed participating within campus leadership roles for the Student Bar Association, Environmental Law Organization, Law Women, UT Pro Bono and as Managing Editor for the Tennessee Journal for Race, Gender, and Social Justice. Further, I have served my Knoxville community by co-leading the UT Pro Bono’s Homeless Project, participating in the College of Law’s Advocacy, Domestic Violence, and Expungement Clinics, and as a Legal Fellow for Statewide Organizing for Community eMpowerment (SOCM).
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
During the entirety of my time at the College of Law, I served on the Law Women executive board, and one of my favorite memories from law school was our annual chili cook off. Each year, with the help of our donors and sponsors, we raised money for scholarships while enjoying a fun and tasty event amongst College of Law students and faculty. Who doesn’t love a good chili cook off?
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law?
Joy Radice is one professor who made an incredible impact on my time at the College of Law. I am someone who tends to learn better through hands-on experiences, and her guidance in the College of Law Legal Clinic and Pro Bono work really cultivated that. She has shown me how to zealously advocate for clients in all legal avenues while also reminding me of the importance of personal mental health.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to work in criminal prosecution in Salt Lake City, Utah.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
I came to law school to work for change in my communities, and the College of Law has allowed me to do just that. To me, being a graduate of the College of Law means embracing a vocation dedicated to serving others, promoting justice and making a positive impact in the world.
Emma Fowler
Kingston, Tennessee
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, B.A. Political Science
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
I loved attending UT as an undergraduate student and knew that the College of Law would give me a fantastic education while allowing me to stay in the place I love.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
I was a member of the National Moot Court Team, vice chair of Advocates’ Prize on the Moot Court Executive Board, a staff editor and then executive editor on both Tennessee Law Review and Transactions: The Tennessee Journal of Business Law and served as Vice President of the Christian Legal Society.
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
One of my favorite memories was winning the Advocates’ Prize competition in the fall of my 2L year. I felt like I had found my footing and felt my confidence in my legal skills grow immensely. I learned so much about what it takes to be a successful advocate, and I am very happy I decided to push myself outside of my comfort zone and enter the competition.
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law?
Professor Rodd Barckhoff has been an invaluable mentor. I was lucky enough to work with him as Vice-Chair of Advocates’ Prize, and I was able to take his judicial writing class this past spring. He has been a wonderful support to me, and I am so glad we were able to work together.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am clerking for the Honorable J. Daniel Breen on the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
Being a graduate of the College of Law means that I am able to take the skills and knowledge I have obtained here and take them anywhere. The College of Law has a vast network of people who want you to succeed, whether they be faculty, staff or alumni. I am a firm believer that our community is one of the most supportive and caring that exists, and I am grateful to be a part of it.
Nick Fowler
Smyrna, Tennessee
The United States Naval Academy, B.S. and Auburn University, M.B.A.
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
As a Tennessee native, I wanted to return to my roots after serving in the United States Marine Corps. The UT College of Law has been the perfect fit because it has allowed me to become part of a bigger family while pursuing a law degree. The culture, professors and community are second to none.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
While attending the College of Law, I was involved with the Student Bar Association, Vols for Vets and was a student ambassador for the college. I currently serve as an Officer in the United States Marine Corps Reserves, supporting the recruiting mission. My wife and I are active members at NorthStar Church.
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
The third Saturday in October (October 15, 2022), is a day everyone on Rocky Top will remember. Attending UT’s historic win over Alabama was magical. Go Vols!
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law?
Several of my professors have inspired me and provided valuable mentorship. All members of staff at the College of Law helped to enhance my time as a student and poured into me. Professors prioritized getting to know me by understanding my personal and professional goals. They helped connect me with the right resources to provide appropriate experiences and opportunities that aligned with my goals. Truly all of my professors and the administration have gone above and beyond to help ensure my success.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, my family is moving back to Charleston, SC, which is where my wife and I originally met. I am excited to begin working for Maynard Nexsen, as a complex commercial litigation associate.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
As a graduate of the College of Law, I am part of an incredible alumni network. Having had a great academic experience, I am set up for success to be a professional attorney and equipped with the resources/community to pursue all of my professional aspirations. Our alumni network is wide-reaching and active in investing in and developing the next generation of attorneys. No matter where I am in my professional career, I will always be proud to be a member of the Volunteer community.
Tatiyana Lewis
Augusta, Georgia
Howard University, B.A. Legal Communications
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
I chose the University of Tennessee College of Law for several compelling reasons that resonated with my personal aspirations and academic goals. Foremost among these was the school’s innovative approach to legal education, particularly its concentrations in advocacy and transactional law. This structure provided a clear and directed path through law school, allowing me to tailor my education to match my career interests from the outset.
The admissions team also played a pivotal role in my decision-making process. They walked me through various financial aspects, such as scholarship opportunities and strategies for minimizing debt, demonstrating a genuine interest in my personal and financial well-being.
My engagement with current students also played a crucial part in my decision. Despite not being able to attend Admitted Students Day, the enthusiasm and willingness of the students to share their experiences and offer insights over the phone were incredibly reassuring. The combination of a focused academic structure, a culturally rich and familiar environment, a highly supportive admissions team, and a welcoming student community made the UT College of Law the perfect choice for me.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
I have enjoyed being involved in UT Pro Bono’s Homeless Project, Tennessee Law Review, Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity, Black Law Student Association, College of Law Legal Clinic. I was also a Student Appointee on Faculty Appointment Committee and a Diversity & Inclusion Fellow.
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
During my 3L year, I had the incredible opportunity to extern for the Department of Justice at the United States Attorney’s Office in the criminal division, focusing on violent crimes and drug offenses. I was actively involved in sorting through evidence and drafting an indictment, which provided me with invaluable insight into the intricacies of building a criminal case. Moreover, I had the unique opportunity to appear in court on behalf of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Standing in court, representing the government’s case, was not only a full-circle moment for my educational journey but also a profound realization of the impact and responsibility of a legal career. Throughout my externship, I also worked closely with Professor Bill Mercer, who assisted me in accessing critical literature necessary for preparing a comprehensive report and project for the U.S. Attorney. His mentorship was invaluable, as it helped refine my research skills and deepen my understanding of criminal law. This externship was a highlight of my law school career, providing me with a robust platform to transition from academic studies to professional practice.
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law? If yes, please share.
Professor Benjamin Barton’s classes, Torts 1 and 2, were two of my most cherished classes during my law school career. His passion for the subject matter was evident and contagious, fostering a deep interest in tort law that led to my receiving the CALI Excellence for the Future Award for achieving the highest grade in the class. Beyond the classroom, my relationship with Professor Barton had extended to several meaningful projects. I had the honor of serving as his teaching assistant for Torts 1 as well as work with him on UT Pro Bono’s Homeless Project, where we worked closely to provide legal assistance to the homeless community. Professor Barton’s willingness to provide glowing recommendations and his ever-reliable, honest advice have been pivotal in my law career. His mentorship and guidance have profoundly impacted my professional outlook and personal development, making my time at the College of Law both memorable and transformative. I truly admire and respect him, not just as an educator but also as a mentor and a role model in the legal community.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be sitting in TN for the July 2024 bar exam. After the bar, I will be moving to Nashville, Tennessee to work as an associate at Bass, Berry & Sims. I plan to be licensed in Tennessee, Texas and North Carolina by the end of this year.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
As a Black woman, graduating from the College of Law holds a profound significance for me. It represents not just years of hard work and dedication, but also a victory over the numerous systemic barriers that often stand in the way of people like me. This achievement is a testament to the resilience and perseverance that my family instilled in me, the same qualities that fueled my ancestors’ dreams and struggles. My degree is more than an academic achievement; it’s a beacon of hope for my community. It sends a powerful message to young Black girls that they too can aspire to and achieve their highest ambitions, regardless of the challenges they face. For me, this degree is not the end of a journey, but the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service. I am driven to use my legal expertise to uplift and protect those who are marginalized and voiceless, ensuring that the scales of justice are balanced for everyone, not just the privileged few.
Carter Oakley
West Des Moines, Iowa
University of Tennessee, B.A. Communication Studies
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
After completing my undergraduate degree at UT, staying in Knoxville to attend the College of Law was a no brainer. I know the great reputation and strong alumni base that the College of Law has around the state of Tennessee, so for someone like myself, wanting to practice in the state, it was an easy choice. Plus, how could I say, “no,” to three more years of cheering on the Vols in Neyland stadium?
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
My first year of law school, I was able to stay active in an organization on the main campus, as a student ambassador. Through the College of Law, I joined Phi Alpha Delta, where I served on the Alumni Networking Committee. That experience expanded my network and allowed me to meet a diverse group of attorneys around town. In the community, I volunteered throughout law school to lead a group of students, who are now in tenth grade, at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church.
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
The Center for Advocacy and Dispute Resolution hosts an annual event for first-year students called Advocacy Idol. I competed in the event, presenting an opening statement in front of a panel of real judges from different courts around the state. I managed to win the event, which really encouraged me and helped me feel confident that the College of Law was where I was meant to be.
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law?
Professor Bill Sennett stands out as a professor who positively impacted my journey during my time at the College of Law. Professor Sennett made purposeful connections with his students, making us feel like he was always in our corner if we needed something. I enjoyed my classes with Professor Sennett, shared meals with him and friends and was able to use him as a resource for my expository paper.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be moving to Nashville to work for Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP, as an associate in their Real Estate Practice Group.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
Attending the College of Law allowed me to further my relationship with this great university as I entered the legal profession. I am proud and excited for the opportunity to represent the UT College of Law in both my career and my community.
Virginia Saylor
Asheville, North Carolina
Davidson College, B.A.
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
Coming from Davidson College, a small liberal arts college, I knew I wanted to attend a large university for law school, and it doesn’t get much better than an SEC experience! Tennessee was the perfect fit because I come from a long line of Tennessee grads on my dad’s side, and I was excited to continue this legacy.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
Tennessee Law Review: currently, I am the Editor-in-Chief. I also worked part time as a personal trainer and coach at F45 in West Knoxville throughout law school.
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
My greatest achievement during my time at UT Law was being elected as Editor-in-Chief of Tennessee Law Review. It meant the world that my peers trusted and believed in me to lead the journal. Although it was certainly a grind, some of my fondest memories come from my time working as both a staff editor and as editor-in-chief. It was a unique experience to collaborate with my peers to select articles we cared about and move the journal forward.
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law?
Hands down, it was Professor Joan Heminway. Professor Heminway was assigned as my academic advisor and became a trusted mentor throughout my time here. I simply couldn’t have done this without her support and guidance. Because I came in knowing I wanted to practice corporate law, Professor Heminway’s knowledge and experience were indispensable as I looked for jobs and made practice group decisions. Likewise, I appreciated the way she emphasizes hard skills, simulating a corporate law practice in her classes. This will, without a doubt, make the difference as I transition to practice. Her classes were tough (oh, were they tough!), but I have no doubt that she had prepared me to meet the various expectations and demands of a corporate law practice.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am moving to Charlotte, North Carolina and am working in the debt finance practice group at K&L Gates, LLP.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
My time at the College of Law has exceeded my expectations. Law school is challenging, no matter where you go, but the professors and mentors at the College of Law made my experience meaningful. I think we have a really special and sophisticated transactional law program that helps prepare us for a corporate law practice. It means the world that the business law professors continue to see the value in teaching and preparing us for a corporate law practice. I couldn’t have made a better choice in selecting the UT College of Law.
Brock Willis
Smyrna, Tennessee
Western Kentucky University, B.S. and Bethel University, M.A.
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
I grew up surrounded by orange and white, but my path to UT College of Law was unconventional. When I transitioned from a career as a college football coach to pursuing my J.D., I chose the College of Law for its hands-on learning opportunities through clinics and externships. Additionally, the endorsement and encouragement from Marcos Garza, my current boss and a proud College of Law alum, further solidified my decision to choose UT College of Law.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
During my time at the College of Law, I actively participated in several organizations. I was a member of the Moot Court Board and the Federalist Society. I served our community’s homeless population through UT Pro Bono’s Homeless Project. I was also involved with the Hamilton Burnett American Inn of Court. A significant part of my law school journey was working in the UT College of Law Legal Clinic where, under the supervision of Professor Joy Radice, I represented clients in criminal cases and restoration of rights cases. The Legal Clinic provided me with the opportunity to represent real clients in court.
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
My time working for Chief Justice Holly Kirby of the Tennessee Supreme Court in Memphis was a significant highlight. This experience provided invaluable insights into the judicial process and deepened my commitment to public service, an opportunity made possible by the Kolwyck Equal Access to Justice Fellowship and Tennessee Association of Public Interest Law Fellowship. Additionally, my externship with Judge Kristi Davis, a UT College of Law alum, at the Tennessee Court of Appeals, also enriched my experience, honing my research and writing skills and deepening my understanding of appellate law and procedure.
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law?
Professor Buck Lewis, who teaches Lawyers as Leaders, played an instrumental role in my journey at the College of Law. His mentorship profoundly shaped my understanding of being a leader in the legal community. Additionally, I had the privilege of working with Professor Emerita Penny White on various projects, including her book Tennessee Capital Case Handbook. Her continued dedication to scholarship left a lasting impact on me.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I am set to begin a judicial clerkship with the Honorable Mark S. Norris at the U. S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee. This position will allow me to continue to develop my legal research and writing skills while gaining an inside look at our federal judicial system. I’m grateful to the College of Law’s Center for Advocacy & Dispute Resolution and the Bettye B. Lewis Career Center for their invaluable assistance in helping secure this opportunity.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
Graduating from here means joining a legacy of legal professionals who graduated from the College of Law. From day one, I was amazed by my classmates’ dedication and intelligence. The alumni network, filled with leaders in every area of law, is equally inspiring. I’m excited to contribute to this community and uphold the high standards set by those who came before me.
Ronald Young
Lakeland, Tennessee
Why did you choose the University of Tennessee College of Law?
I chose the University of Tennessee College of Law because of its outstanding academic reputation and strong ties to the Tennessee legal community. As a lifelong Tennessean and proud alumnus of UT, I deeply value our university’s land grant mission and the esteemed reputation of our law school among our country’s most well-respected legal institutions. By attending the UT College of Law, I knew my opportunities wouldn’t be limited, allowing me to reach wherever my aspirations led.
What student organization(s) or community organization(s) have you been involved with during your time in the College of Law?
Student Bar Association, Black Law Students Association, Graduate Student Senate, Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association, American Bar Association, Knoxville Bar Association and American Inns of Court
Share an achievement or special memory from your time as a student.
One of my most cherished memories was the moment I received the news of my election as Student Bar Association President. The trust and confidence my colleagues placed in me meant the world, as they entrusted me to lead them into the academic year. It was a fantastic year, and I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve them.
Was there a professor who positively impacted your journey as a student at the College of Law?
Professor Emerita Penny White epitomized the law school experience for students. Her remarkable journey from rural Appalachia in Tennessee to advocating before the United States Supreme Court, followed by her tenure as a Justice on the Tennessee Supreme Court, and, ultimately, returning to UT College of Law to educate, has been a source of inspiration for me. Her unwavering determination, deep understanding of the law and consistent encouragement motivated me to aim high in my studies and always strive for excellence, like she always did.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be joining Bailey & Greer, PLLC in Memphis, Tennessee, specializing in civil litigation with a focus on personal injury, medical and legal malpractice and mass torts.
What does being a graduate of the College of Law mean to you?
Being a graduate of the College of Law is a dream come true, representing the entry into a fellowship of distinguished lawyers across the globe. From my time at the College of Law, becoming a graduate brings a greater sense of responsibility to protect the rights of the vulnerable and to serve those who I will have the honor to represent with integrity. I am confident that I am prepared to navigate the complexities of the legal world and contribute to making the world a better place, following in the footsteps of those Law Volunteers who have done so before me.