Let’s Talk–Leaders: Knoxville Bar Foundation welcomes 12 new Fellows

The Knoxville Bar Foundation welcomed 12 local attorneys and judges into its 2026 class of Fellows at an Oct. 26 reception at the Sunsphere. The honor recognizes their work in the law and their service to the community.

The foundation says it invites fewer than 1% of lawyers practicing in the Knoxville area to become Fellows each year. The honor also draws attention to the foundation’s work beyond the reception: Since its founding, the nonprofit has awarded more than $600,000 in grants to improve public understanding of the legal system, support the administration of justice and help people access legal services.

The 2026 Fellows are:

• Hon. Emily F. Abbott
• P. Newman Bankston
• K.O. Herston
• Regina Koho
• Leah W. McClanahan
• Melissa R. Mancini
• M. Samantha Parris
• George Shields
• W. Edward Shipe
• Eddy R. Smith
• P. Alexander Vogel
• Barton C. Williams

A UT alumnus gives back through an endowed professorship

Arrow Exterminators has established the Joe Thomas Endowed Professorship at the University of Tennessee in honor of its longtime owner and chairman, a UT graduate. The company announced an initial gift of $100,000 and a commitment to raise an additional $500,000 from the pest management industry.

The professorship will support faculty teaching, research and outreach. Thomas said his time at UT helped shape him as a leader and that he hopes the gift will help prepare future generations to serve and lead in the industry.