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Chambliss Recognizes 2025-2026 John C. Stophel Distinguished Students
Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, P.C. congratulates the 2025-2026 John C. Stophel Distinguished Students from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s (UTC) Gary W. Rollins College of Business for their exceptional achievements and dedication to academic excellence.
This year’s recipients include:
- John Dempsey, Management/HR Management
- Kestutis Dubininkas, Data Analytics
- Madison Goble, Accounting
- Chandler Mason, Finance
- Ana Morris, Entrepreneurship
- Paige Proseus, Marketing
- Juliet Romines, Economics
“We are proud to recognize these seven outstanding students for their remarkable academic achievements and service to their communities,” said Chambliss President and Managing Shareholder Steve Barham. “Their accomplishments reflect the integrity, dedication, and leadership that will serve them well as they continue in their professional journeys.”
The John C. Stophel Distinguished Student Award is given annually to recognize high-achieving business students who have made significant and meaningful civic contributions to UTC and the Gary W. Rollins College of Business while maintaining a strong academic record. Award recipients are chosen based on their outstanding leadership, commitment to community, and communication abilities, as well as a high level of self-motivation.
“This is an outstanding group of students,” said Dr. Robert Dooley, Dean of UTC’s Gary W. Rollins College of Business. “The John C. Stophel Distinguished Students are leaders among their peers. They demonstrate a strong commitment to academics and community service. We’re honored by the commitment Chambliss has made to recognize their accomplishments and mentor them as they prepare for their careers.”
Chambliss established an endowment at UTC in 2008 to honor the legacy of John C. Stophel, whose leadership was instrumental in shaping our firm’s culture following the merger that formed Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, P.C. in 1997. Throughout more than 50 years of practicing law, Stophel led numerous civic, charitable, and religious initiatives to benefit the Chattanooga community. Additionally, he served as chairman of the University of Chattanooga Foundation Board of Trustees from 2001 to 2004.
To learn more about the John C. Stophel Distinguished Student Award, visit: https://www.utc.edu/gary-w-rollins-college-of-business/student-resources/john-c-stophel-student-awards
Read the Chattanooga Area Chamber article, “Chambliss Recognizes 2025-2026 John C. Stophel Distinguished Students.”

