The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Law has received a $5 million gift in the name of the Chattanooga-based law firm of Summers, Rufolo and Rodgers PC to support the Center for Advocacy and Dispute Resolution, the Legal Clinic, the Douglas Blaze Professorship, and scholarships for students interested in pursuing legal careers in advocacy.
Summers, Rufolo and Rodgers member Jeffrey Rufolo said the continued support of the firm’s clients has made this and other gifts possible.
“Philanthropic support for the UT College of Law is paramount to the long-term success of and sustainability for the legal profession in the state of Tennessee,” Rufolo said.
College of Law Interim Dean Doug Blaze said he hopes the gift will challenge others to offer their financial support for the College of Law.
“We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Summers, Rufolo and Rodgers and their particular interest in advancing our students’ appreciation of legal advocacy,” Blaze said. “Partnerships like these are invaluable to us.”
The College of Law has named a classroom and will name the moot court program after the Summers, Rufolo and Rodgers law firm. The firm was founded in 1969 by Jerry H. Summers, a 1966 College of Law graduate. Rufolo graduated in 1991, and Jimmy F. Rodgers Jr. in 1994.
Other attorneys with the firm are Marya Wegenka Schalk (a 2005 graduate) and Benjamin L. McGowan.
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CONTACT:
Lindsey Owen (865-974-6375, lowen8@utk.edu)
Rachel McClelland (865-974-6788, rachel.mcclelland@utk.edu)