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University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law received a $25,000 donation from Tiffany Kell, law mediation program coordinator at Bowen, to create a scholarship in memory of her father, Arkansas attorney Boyd “Skip” Tackett.
The Boyd “Skip” Tackett Endowed Scholarship will be used to aid with education-related expenses like tuition, books, fees, room and board for students at Bowen.
A preference will be shown for applicants who demonstrate a clear financial need and those who demonstrate a strong commitment to pursue a career in criminal defense, reflecting the values and career focus of Tackett.
Kell said her father instilled the importance of giving back and helping those in need.
“As a third-generation lawyer, I know he would have loved the idea of this scholarship,” Kell said. “Easing the financial burden for a student so they can focus on making a difference in the world is truly priceless.”
Colin Crawford, dean at Bowen, did not know Tackett personally but spoke to many that did.
“People said Skip Tackett was the model of a servant leader, serving the people of Arkansas as a criminal defense attorney for over 50 years, all the time demonstrating an unwavering commitment to justice and a tireless work ethic,” Crawford said. “To be sure, this scholarship will help students who wish to follow in Skip Tackett’s service to those in need of dedicated legal representation.”
Born in Hot Springs in 1940, Tackett was the son of U.S. Congressman Boyd Tackett, who represented Arkansas’s 4th Congressional District from 1949 to 1953. Tackett gave tours of the White House during this time.
Tackett attended University of Arkansas, where he was a member of the Razorback football team. He earned his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in Houston and practiced law in Texarkana and Houston before settling in Conway.
Tackett dedicated more than 50 years to the practice of criminal defense, representing clients with unmatched dedication and commitment.
Known for his relentless advocacy and thorough approach, Tackett made significant contributions to the legal community in Arkansas. His work ethic and client-focused philosophy have left an indelible mark on the field of criminal defense.
This scholarship embodies his legacy by supporting students who aspire to uphold the same standards of excellence and justice in their legal careers.
Kell said her dad was a very joyful guy.
“He was the best storyteller I ever met, and that made him a great litigator; when you try cases, you tell stories and make people realize you are dealing with people,” Kell said. “He encouraged all his children to stand up for people when we felt someone had been wronged.”
Original story by Angelita Faller on University of Arkansas at Little Rock news website.
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