After graduating from Minnesota Law, Brandon Blakely ’18 worked for Minneapolis firms Briggs and Morgan (now Taft) and Stinson. He now lives in Phoenix, Arizona, and practices at Fennemore Craig, specializing in tax, trusts, and estates. Although no longer residing in the Twin Cities, Blakely stays involved with the Law School as an alum and member of Minnesota Law’s Board of Advisors. Before departing for Phoenix, he was active in Twin Cities Diversity in Practice (TCDiP), a nonprofit that strives to attract, recruit, advance, and retain attorneys of color to its members. There he served on the board for emerging leaders. 

In addition to his passion for expanding diversity in the legal profession, Blakely is committed to giving back. 

“Philanthropy is very important, and I want to make sure that Minnesota Law and its students have the resources needed to enhance the overall experience,” Blakely says. “Most importantly, I know that the Law School is competing with others in the region and across the country for the best faculty and students and that competition requires a commitment to philanthropy from alumni.” 

Blakely is driven by a desire to support the potential of today's Minnesota Law students. “I think law students and young professionals have begun to influence change by questioning the status quo and demanding that our classroom and courtrooms reflect society,” Blakely says, adding that future lawyers must leverage their law degree to impact change in a meaningful way. “They need to understand the scope of our profession and show up for those who cannot or need their voices amplified.” 

Blakely’s affinity for the Law School started with an appreciation for his classmates. “I was fortunate to have an amazing section that made law school a blast. I spent my 3L fall semester in Sweden with some of those same classmates — an experience I will never forget.” 

Hometown: Torrance, California. 

Giving Level: William B. Lockhart Club, Lockhart GOLD 

What won't we find on your resume?
I often moonlight as a sportscaster in my living room while watching sports (to my wife’s dismay). I love trivia and hope to be on “Jeopardy” someday. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to first-year law students?
Get to know your professors and take advantage of office hours.