The Southeast Tennessee Council of the Tennessee Society of Health Care Social Workers has named Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel elder law and special needs care manager William “Dub” Ellis as its 2026 Social Worker of the Year, recognizing his longstanding commitment to advocacy and client support.
Ellis received the honor during the council’s March 25 meeting, held in conjunction with National Social Workers Month. The award was presented by acting TSHCSW president Mary Andrews. Recipients are nominated by their peers and selected through a vote of active members.
The recognition marks the second time Ellis has received the award. Another Chambliss care manager, Amy Boulware, has also earned the distinction twice during her career.
“I’m grateful for this honor and for the support of the organization,” Ellis says. “TSHCSW plays a supporting role in the work I do every day. The connections and resources shared among its members are invaluable, and I’m grateful to be part of a group so dedicated to serving others.”
Ellis is a Tennessee Licensed Master Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience. In his role at Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, he works alongside the firm’s estate planning team, assisting individuals and families as they navigate complex health and life challenges. His work includes care planning, insurance navigation, and connecting clients with medical and community resources.
Ellis also collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to address both immediate needs and long-term care considerations, helping clients and their families plan for future well-being.
Chambliss adds corporate attorney
Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel has announced the addition of attorney Alfonso Cuen, who will support the firm’s business and mergers and acquisitions practice areas.
Cuen advises businesses on a wide range of corporate and transactional matters, including mergers and acquisitions, commercial contracts and general business operations. His work encompasses entity formation, buy-sell agreements, due diligence and purchase agreements, as well as day-to-day corporate governance.
He also provides counsel in areas such as bankruptcy, corporate restructuring and asset sale transactions. Drawing on a background in litigation, Cuen focuses on identifying and addressing potential risks early in the deal-making process.
Cuen represents clients across multiple industries, including communications, technology and utilities, construction, education, health care and manufacturing. His experience spans businesses at various stages, from startups to established companies, offering guidance on growth, operational challenges and organizational change.
He earned his bachelor’s degree, cum laude, from Lee University and his Juris Doctor from Belmont University College of Law. He’s licensed to practice law in Tennessee.
Mullins joins veterinary board
Dr. John Mullins has been appointed member-at-large for East Tennessee on the executive board of the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association for the 2026–2027 term.
In this role, Mullins will represent the interests of veterinarians across East Tennessee, serving as a regional voice on the statewide board and contributing to initiatives that support animal health and the veterinary profession.
The Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association is a professional organization focused on advancing veterinary medicine through advocacy, education and community engagement. The group works to support veterinarians in delivering high-quality care for animals while also promoting public health.