Jebbie Whiteside '06

How did you decide that the William S. Boyd School of Law was your top pick?

While completing my undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Frank Durand spoke at a Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law meeting. Originally, I planned to apply to law schools in California, Arizona, and Oregon. However, Dean Durand talked about this “new” Nevada law school – Boyd School of Law. As a Nevada native, I considered the benefits of an in-state school v. out of state schools: (1) better networking opportunities; (2) lower tuition; (3) community support; and (4) my thoughts of practicing law in Nevada. However, Boyd Law School was not yet accredited; so, I still had my reservations. 

Frank invited me to visit the law school – giving me directions to some “elementary school.” I thought, “This Frank dude must be crazy to think I am going to some elementary school with short toilets and corkboards to get a law degree.” However, as I walked along the elementary school hallways and observed the law classes, I saw the true friendships of colleagues develop; the quality of education students received; and the administration’s open door and welcoming approach. My fears the school would not earn its full accreditation dissipated. I realized that elementary school shell did not matter – it was the people inside that made the law school great and continue to succeed. So, I applied and was accepted. However, I postponed enrollment for one year due to medical concerns. The delay worked out perfect because, in the Fall 2003, I became part of the inaugural 1L class to initiate the “new building” of the William S. Boyd School of Law. I never experienced attending law school in an elementary school building.       

What community nonprofits are you associated with?

Community involvement has always been important to me. In law school, I participated in almost every student organization available at the time. It was a great way to meet people, to network, and to be a part of the community. After law school, my passion for involvement continues. Currently, I serve as Vice President for the Arizona Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) – Maricopa Chapter; and as a Board Member of the AWLA at the state level. I also am on the National Gay Pilots Association Chapter Leaders Committee and regularly volunteer with the American Red Cross, Ronald McDonald House, and Feed My Starving Children.    

What is a little known fact about you?

I am a compulsive traveler. I have been to 49 of the 50 states; and traveled to 63 countries and counting. Traveling the world provides me a different perspective on life – both personally and professionally. As Anthony Bourdain said, “Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” Traveling is a lot like the legal profession – hopefully, we all leave something good behind.

Are you going to make us guess which state you have yet to visit?

OK, it’s Maine and I am dying to try some Maine lobster and relax in Bangor. I keep telling myself someday.