TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Julia Wilburn on May 21, 2024

Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals Judge Camille R. McMullen gave the commencement address at her alma mater, the University of Tennessee Law School, on May 16, according to the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). McMullen said her goal was to emphasize to graduates that the legal profession is one of the most important and impactful in the world. She told graduates, "You have the power to make a real difference in your client’s lives and — by extension — society. But to do so, you must remain genuinely engaged, passionate and committed to your work. When you feel apathy begin to set in, fight it. Your law degree has given you immense power to change the world, don’t waste it." McMullen says she believes it is important for judges to share their experience and wisdom with the next generation of lawyers. She was appointed to the court in 2008 by then-Gov. Phil Bredesen and elected presiding judge in 2023.