FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The American College of Bankruptcy has recognized third-year law student Taylor Ellis as its Eighth Circuit Distinguished Law Student for 2020. The college established the program "to identify law students of demonstrated talent and interest in bankruptcy law." Up to one student is chosen from each of 11 federal judicial circuits each year. Ellis is the second University of Arkansas School of Law student to receive the award, and the U of A is the only law school in the Eighth Circuit to have two students receive the award.

"Taylor has a strong interest in bankruptcy, a record of excellence in her bankruptcy related coursework, a willingness to represent indigent debtors in bankruptcy and leadership qualities that make her well suited to be this year's recipient of the Distinguished Students Award," said Timothy Tarvin, professor of law and director of the Bankruptcy Clinic. 

Ellis' interest in bankruptcy law began after taking a class from Richard D. Taylor, United States Bankruptcy Court judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas and part-time faculty at the School of Law. From there, she became a student in Bankruptcy Clinic and a judicial extern in the court of Ben T. Barry, chief judge of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas. 

"I love that bankruptcy law provides a meaningful way to help people," Ellis said. "Debtors are provided a 'fresh start' giving them the chance to better their financial situation. The prospect of joining the bankruptcy bar and having the opportunity to help and make a difference in others' lives has me hopeful and excited for my future. I am honored to be this year's recipient of the Distinguished Students Award."

The Bankruptcy Clinic focuses on helping people in the Northwest Arkansas area file for consumer Chapter 7 bankruptcies. During her two semesters in the clinic, Ellis has represented multiple clients. Her work included conducting interviews, fact investigation, document assembly, client counseling, trust accounting, online filing, preparing clients for creditor meetings, accompanying clients to creditor meetings and negotiating with creditors. She also assists fellow students in the clinic with their representation.

According to its website, the American College of Bankruptcy is dedicated to the enhancement of professionalism, scholarship and service in bankruptcy and insolvency law and practice. It is an honorary public service association of U.S. and international insolvency professionals who are invited to join as fellows based on a proven record of the highest standards of expertise, leadership, integrity, professionalism, scholarship and service to the bankruptcy practice and to their communities.