Originally from Jackson, Mississippi, Terry Turnipseed’s life narrative is a powerful illustration of perseverance, intellectual rigor, and an enduring commitment to excellence. Now based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Terry serves as the Vice President of Estate Planning & Asset Protection at Neil Jesani Advisors, where his exceptional work reflects both his expertise and unwavering professional standards.
Terry’sacademicrecordisnothingshortofextraordinary.AsummacumlaudegraduateinNuclear Engineering from Mississippi State University, he was named an Engineering Fellow and honored as a Harry S. Truman Memorial Scholar. His pursuit of advanced knowledge led him to earn dual graduate degrees in Nuclear Engineering and Technology & Policy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he was also recognized as a National Science Foundation Fellow.
Further advancing his education, Terry completed both a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Taxation, cum laude, at Georgetown University, demonstrating his relentless pursuit of interdisciplinary excellence.
Terry began his professional journey in academia, dedicating 18 years to shaping the minds of future leaders as a Professor of Law, Engineering, and Computer Science. His academic career wasmarkedbyadeepcommitmenttobothscholarshipandmentorship,bringingreal-worldinsight into the classroom and emphasizing practical applications of complex theories.
Transitioning from academia to private practice, Terry brought his deep technical and legal expertisetoNeilJesani Advisors,whereheworks withhigh-net-worthindividualsonsophisticated estate planning strategies. His proficiency spans an array of complex financial and legal instruments, including GRATs, CLATs, CRUTs, Family Limited Liability Companies, Conservation Easements, QPRTs, Dynasty Trusts, Domestic Asset Protection Trusts, Buy-Sell Agreements, ILITs, and international estate planning structures. This breadth of knowledge positions him as a trusted advisor in asset protection and legacy planning.
Beyond his advisory role, Terry is a published legal author and a sought-after media commentator. His insights have appeared in esteemed outlets such as Newsweek, Fox News Network, and the New York Daily News, enhancing public understanding of intricate legal and financial matters.
Terry maintains active bar memberships in both the District of Columbia and New York, and he is affiliated with prestigious legal organizations, including the American Bar Association and the American Association of LawSchools.Throughthese affiliations,he continues to influencepolicy discussions, legal education, and the broader estate planning community.
Outside his professional endeavors, Terry brings the same dedication and character to his personal life. He is an avid collector, curating a unique and personalized collection of over 150 high-top Chuck Taylors, with nearly half custom-labeled with his name. His passion for the water is equally pronounced he is both a sailing and power boating enthusiast and the proud owner of a 47-foot power catamaran.
These hobbies are more than pastimes they reflect a pursuit of individuality, excellence, and balance that defines every area of Terry’s life.
Throughout his multifaceted career, Terry Turnipseed has exemplified what it means to lead with purpose, knowledge, and integrity. From academic lecterns to boardrooms, he has consistently demonstrated that true success is measured not just in achievements, but in the values one upholds. His life is a testament to what is possible when brilliance is matched by dedication, and when professional success is pursued with an unshakable foundation of character.