Ruby Wharton 2013 Dozier Award Recipient
Attorney Ruby R. Wharton is the 2013 recipient of the Bishop Carroll T. Dozier Award for Peace and Justice.
The Bishop Carroll T. Dozier Award for Peace and Justice was presented to Ruby R. Wharton during the Baccalaureate Ceremony on May 10, by Christian Brothers University in a ceremony at Immaculate Conception Cathedral.
A Boston College Law School graduate, Wharton’s history of advocating for justice as an attorney stretches back to 1960, when she was admitted as the only African-American woman in her class.
From her work in Washington with the Neighborhood Legal Services Program to her work within the Circuit, Chancery and Probate Courts of Shelby County and the federal court system, her practice has been wide reaching.
Her diverse experience includes probate and administration of estates, criminal defense, personal injury, employment discrimination, contract disputes and domestic relations.
Wharton’s perseverance and dedication to combat civic and social injustices through the legal system ignited the beginning of a commitment to defending the rights of others and advocating for equality in education, housing, legal representation and basic human rights.
Whether as a participant at a sit-in, an advocate for the less fortunate and marginalized or a defender of the defenseless, Wharton has served as a role model.
Dedicated to giving back to the community, over the years Wharton has consistently used her talents as an attorney to improve life for minorities and the young.
While actively involved in numerous boards and charities, one, the Boy Scouts of America, has been near and dear to her heart as it mirrors her commitment of helping young men, including her sons, learn the values of community consciousness, hard work and kindness.
This quiet crusader is also the wife of Mayor A C Wharton.
She pursues opportunities to transform the lives of those most in need, always respecting the individual and preserving the dignity of each person.
Specifically, she has championed women in the legal profession and been recognized for her work with the naming of the Ruby R. Wharton Outstanding Women Awards.
She is currently a partner with the firm of Adams and Wharton.
The Dozier Award was bestowed on Wharton for her commitment to justice for all and community activism.
The Dozier Award for Peace and Justice is named for Bishop Carroll T. Dozier, the first Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Memphis and a leader in race relations, peace and justice. Bishop Dozier served as Bishop of Memphis from 1971-1982. Elisa C. Marus is vice president for communications and marketing for Christian Brothers University.