Upkins is the first woman from Tennessee selected for prestigious position
Alumna of the inaugural class of Belmont University College of Law Ashley Upkins (’14) was recently announced the first woman from Tennessee to be selected as president-elect of the National Bar Association at its 99th annual convention July 16. Upkins currently leads litigation at Silicon Ranch, one of the country’s largest independent power producers.
“I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust and confidence that the members of the National Bar Association have placed in me,” Upkins said. “I am eager to lead with passion, purpose and a deep sense of responsibility as we write the next chapter in our storied history. I look forward to working with our current president, Wiley S. Adams. Together, we will rise to meet the moments that define us and forge a path forward for generations to come.”
Upkins, whose exceptional career and dedication to justice and equality have set her apart, emerged victorious in a highly competitive race, underscoring her remarkable leadership and vision for the future of the legal profession.
The Nashville-native is no stranger to admirable leadership and boldness to explore unknown opportunities. Considering it a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of shaping Belmont College of Law’s culture and offerings, she eagerly joined the inaugural class.
Founded in 1925, the National Bar Association stands as the nation’s oldest and largest association of Black lawyers, judges, law professors and law students, dedicated to the cause of civil rights, justice and the betterment of the legal profession.
Under Upkins’ leadership, the Association is poised to continue its critical work, promoting the administration of justice, safeguarding the independence of the judiciary, and upholding the highest standards of legal excellence and integrity.
As president-elect, Upkins will work closely with presiding President Adams to steer the organization towards its landmark 100th Annual Convention in Chicago, Illinois, where she will be officially sworn in as president.
“My connection to Belmont remains strong; I frequently return to share my experiences and insights through continuing legal education panels," Upkins said. "My aim is to ensure current students feel well-supported and confident in their decision to pursue their legal education at Belmont."
In addition to excelling academically, she served as founding president of the Belmont University College of Law Black Students Association.
“Recognizing the lack of resources for students of African heritage and other underrepresented groups in the legal field, I took the initiative to establish the Belmont University College of Law Black Law Students Association,” Upkins said. “As its founding president, I was driven by the vision of providing these students with the essential tools and support needed to excel in their pursuit of a Juris Doctor degree.”
September 6-7 the inaugural cohort will celebrate its 10-year reunion in Nashville, marking a decade of impactful leadership, trailblazing and exceptional service to the justice system and legal profession. Her recent accomplishment continues to distinguish Belmont Law within the legal community.
Belmont Law is committed to producing graduates who are not only ready to practice upon entering the legal profession but are also capable of driving positive change within the community.”
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