Dear Readers,

It is hard to believe that my time at Tennessee Law and as Editor-in-Chief of Tennessee Law Review has come to an end. As I reflect on this past year, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride in what we’ve accomplished.

Early in my tenure, I sat down with Nick McCall—a visiting professor, contributing author to A Theory and Practice of Justice,[1] and former Editor-in-Chief of Tennessee Law Review—who imparted some wisdom that would soon become my guiding light. He cautioned: do not let the demands of the job interfere with the personal relationships innate to this role. He stressed that personal interactions are just as critical as an attention to detail. He said, “mistakes will undoubtably be made, but it is the trust you build, and the relationships you develop that will allow you to build something great. Have a vision and include others as you endeavor to execute it.”

This theme of collaboration carried us forward in all that we accomplished this year, not only in what we published, but also in the connections we built with each other, the school, and Knoxville and Tennessee at large. When I assumed my position, Tennessee Law Review was on the precipice of change. At that time, we were still reeling from the loss of our beloved Business Manager, Micki Fox, and in the wake of her tenure, it became my distinct honor to both uphold her legacy and propel our Journal into its next era. To me, this meant interrogating how we had always done things and deciding what worked best for us moving forward. Fortunately, I was joined in this effort by our new Business Manager, Annie Weller, who shared my vision for the Journal and jumped on board with refreshed enthusiasm.

To me, the significance of legal scholarship cannot be overstated, and as I reflect on this year and the many headlines that have shifted our focus, the significance of legal scholarship could not be more pressing.  As lawyers and academics, it is our unique responsibility to influence law and policy through the narratives we tell and the solutions we proffer. I do not take this responsibility lightly. When I stepped into my role, I was determined to further our contribution in this space. Even more so, I was determined to make this contribution meaningful. Heeding Professor McCall’s advice, I knew this meant refocusing our attention on our community.

As we focused on community, two specific goals propelled us forward: (1) focus on Tennessee related issues and scholarship, and (2) promote and publish the voices of our student members. As we submitted our last issue to the publishers earlier this week, I can wholeheartedly say that we accomplished what we set out to do. We published a Tennessee themed issue, published over twenty student articles and case notes (both in the Journal and online), established our online presence, and so much more. Most importantly, all that we have created is the product of all our members, and I am forever grateful for each of their contributions. The Journal is better off because of their efforts.

As I embark on my next chapter, I am left with an overwhelming sense of fulfillment having led this Journal. I will miss the Tennessee Law Review, and my time as Editor-in-Chief will always be one of my most cherished memories. However, looking forward, I know there is more to be done, and I can’t wait to follow along!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Virginia Saylor

Editor-in-Chief, 2023–2024

---

[1] Nick McCall et al., A Theory of Practice of Justice: A Selective Review of the Jurisprudence, Outlook, and Significant Cases of Judge Gilbert S. Merritt, 93 Tenn. L. Rev. 537 (Forthcoming Spring 2024).