The University of Georgia School of Law is recognizing the contributions of Professor Mike Wells, who will retire soon after over 45 years at the institution. Dean Peter B. "Bo" Rutledge acknowledged the importance of long-serving faculty members like Wells, stating, "These professors provide the foundation for the learning environment that makes our intellectual community so special."
To honor Wells' legacy, former students have established the Michael L. Wells Faculty Support Fund. This fund aims to aid in recruiting and retaining faculty by supporting their professional development and research.
Christy Hull, a 2000 alumna who initiated the fund with a lead gift, remarked on Wells' influence: “In his nearly 50 years at UGA Law, Professor Wells taught foundational principles of tort law to generations of lawyers. His gentle but probing style challenged us to think harder and sharper.” Hull emphasized her ongoing use of lessons learned from Wells in her practice.
Three other alumni – Alice Snedeker (J.D.’09), Catherine Curlet (J.D.’11), and Ellen Clarke (J.D.’14) – also contributed significantly to reach the endowment threshold. Snedeker highlighted her connection with Wells through co-authoring an article together and stressed the value great faculty add to the school. Curlet expressed gratitude for her experience as a student and assistant under Wells’ mentorship. Clarke noted her desire to ensure future students benefit from educators like him.
Wells is a notable scholar with three books and over 60 articles published in prestigious journals such as Cornell Law Review and Duke Law Journal. He is affiliated with the American Law Institute and has held various academic positions internationally.
Dean Rutledge extended thanks to those contributing to this tribute fund, noting its significance in supporting outstanding faculty members like Wells who play pivotal roles in educating future legal leaders.
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