Faulkner alumna Mary Nix-Caffee found a holistic approach to balancing life, a young family and her legal career from the strong foundation she received from Faulkner’s Legal Studies department.
At 34, she achieved her dream of graduating from law school all while balancing a full-time paralegal job, evening classes, being a military spouse, and raising a young child. With the support of her family and friends, and a strong faith foundation, she accomplished her goal in four years. She thanked Faulkner for laying the foundation.
“Faulkner University built upon the solid ethical foundation I had from my parents by playing a pivotal role in shaping me both as a person of faith and as a professional that I carry into my current role,” Nix-Caffee said. “The professors in the Legal Studies program were more than just educators; they were mentors who exemplified the integration of faith and profession in their own lives. They encouraged us to view law not just as a career, but as a calling to serve with integrity and compassion, which continues to guide my decisions and interactions as a reminder to uphold justice and stay true to my values even in challenging situations.”
After graduating from Faulkner with a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, Nix-Caffee’s professional path led her to the Arkansas Municipal League (AML) and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock- William H. Bowen School of Law where she attended law school classes in the evenings and served as the Paralegal to General Counsel.
Upon graduation with her Juris Doctor and passing the Bar exam, she transitioned into an attorney role with the Arkansas Municipal League.
“What I enjoy the most about my work is the intellectual challenge it presents,” Nix-Caffee said. “I enjoy the intellectual challenge of my work, both in learning about the legal program and handling unique litigation cases. I find it rewarding to know that our work has a significant impact in providing justice to our clients.”
She returned to Faulkner’s campus for the annual Marketplace Faith Friday Forums in 2024 where she shared her appreciation to her professors. She was honored as the College of Arts and Sciences’ Legal Studies Accomplished Alumna.
“Faulkner University enriched me beyond academics. The Legal Studies department fostered personal growth, spiritual development, and intellectual curiosity. Small classes allowed for personalized attention and meaningful relationships. This holistic experience helped me maintain balance in my career,” she said. “Faulkner provided me with foundational legal knowledge and critical thinking skills crucial to my professional journey. After graduating from Faulkner, I started law school seven years later at the age of 30. Thanks to the foundational skills I learned during my time at Faulkner, I have been able to use them throughout my law school education and as a paralegal. My Faulkner education has taught me to work with purpose and responsibility, and to strive not just for success, but also to make a positive impact.”
