NSL Alumni and Students: Working for All Tennesseans

The people of Tennessee have entrusted their peace and prosperity to those who serve in the three branches of Tennessee’s government – the Legislative Branch, the Executive Branch, and the Judicial Branch. Our state constitution, once described by Thomas Jefferson as the “least imperfect and most republican of the state constitutions,” defines the role of each branch and admonishes each branch to respect the powers and prerogatives of the other branches.

All legislative power in Tennessee is vested in the General Assembly. Tennesseans elect the members of the General Assembly and expect them to act as the eyes, the ears, and the voice of the people. We expect our legislators to represent their constituents, to deliberate and enact legislation that advances the common good, to adopt a state budget and appropriate funds, and to oversee the operation of state government. Even though the legislative process can become messy and rancorous, we expect our legislators to carry out their responsibilities with a proper level of compromise and consensus, always keeping in mind that their actions affect all Tennesseans.

Pursuing the common good is a daunting task in today’s fast-moving and multifaceted world. Today’s legislators receive support from competent, professional staff members and other government officials. Their ability to make informed and well-considered decisions is also enhanced by the advocacy of skilled professionals representing the interests of individuals and organizations.

Graduates of the Nashville School of Law have played significant roles in the legislative process for more than a century. This issue of The Torch celebrates our current graduates and students who are playing important roles in the legislative process. One of our graduates is a state senator. Four are members of the House of Representatives. Many more of our graduates and students staff individual legislators or committees. Still, other graduates and students advocate on behalf of persons, organizations, or causes. Each of these persons, in their own unique way, is using her or his NSL legal education to protect and promote the interests of Tennesseans. My hat is off to them.