Tristan Gardner’s journey through Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law has been defined by purpose, service and an unmistakable drive to uplift others. That combination of leadership and advocacy has earned recognition from The National Jurist, which named him as an Honorable Mention on its 2026 Law Students of the Year list—a distinction reflecting his accomplishments and impact on the community.
From the moment Gardner arrived at Cumberland, he stepped into roles that required both responsibility and vision. As the current president of the Student Bar Association, following earlier service as treasurer and as the first-year representative for his class, he has become a central voice for the student body. His influence extends beyond governance as well. As Cumberland’s co-lead admission ambassador, Gardner plays a pivotal role in recruiting and mentoring prospective students, often being the first person to show them about life in law school.
Gardner’s involvement on campus extends even beyond those roles. He has served as the vice chair and co-chair of the school’s chapter of the Black Law Students Association (BLSA), and co-chair and chair of BLSA’s Thurgood Marshall Symposium. Under his leadership, the event has continued its tradition of elevating critical conversations about civil rights, legal history and the ongoing pursuit of justice by bringing impressive national speakers to campus. He also served as a student scholar with Cumberland’s Center for Children, Law & Ethics.
“It’s a blessing to be recognized by The National Jurist as one of the 2026 Law Students of the Year,” Gardner said. “It’s an even greater blessing to serve the student body of Cumberland School of Law every day. Since 1L year, my goal has never been to pursue awards or accolades, but rather to steward well the gifts and opportunities that the Good Lord has entrusted to me. This recognition would not be possible without the support of the remarkable students and faculty that make up the Cumberland community.”
While Gardner’s leadership is impressive, his advocacy skills are just as striking. As a member of Cumberland’s nationally recognized National Trial Team, currently ranked No. 4 in the country by U.S. News & World Report, he has excelled in high-level trial competitions, earning an Honorable Mention Best Advocate at a major tournament in Austin, Texas, and representing the school at the American Association of Justice National Trial Competition in Chicago.
Gardner is among a few law students in the nation to have been selected as a Marshall Motley Scholar, one of the most prestigious national scholarships available to aspiring civil rights attorneys. He has completed highly selective internships with the Legal Defense Fund and the Equal Justice Initiative, two of the nation’s most respected civil rights organizations. He served as an extern with Volunteer Lawyers Birmingham, working directly with clients facing housing instability, financial hardship and urgent legal needs. Across each role, he contributed to critical civil rights litigation and criminal justice reform efforts.
Gardner’s trajectory has him preparing for a career defined by advocacy, leadership and service. His recognition by The National Jurist is a testament to his achievements and the values that guide him—integrity, empathy and a steadfast commitment to justice.
“Tristan represents the very best of Cumberland School of Law, and his work reflects both exceptional talent and deep moral conviction,” said Dean Blake Hudson. “He is already a leader among his peers, and I have no doubt he will become a transformative advocate in our profession. We are thrilled to see him honored on a national stage.”
