Parks’ willingness to work hard, push the envelope and be uncomfortable propelled her to where she is today.
Phaedra Parks (JD ’98) comes from a proud, four-generation Bulldog family — her grandmother, both of her parents, herself, and her family’s fourth generation, who graduated just a few years ago. Growing up in Athens, her parents were deeply connected to the University of Georgia community, exposing her to everything from National Pan-Hellenic Council step shows to football games. This connection to UGA played a significant role in shaping her decision to attend the UGA School of Law.
“The relationship between my family and Georgia is one of lifelong learners. Being four generations deep has made us love the university and gave us a connection to academic excellence,” said Parks. “It’s part of our heritage at this point, and we want to keep the tradition going, because we love Georgia and it’s in our blood.”
Phaedra Parks and her sons at Stanford Stadium.
In 1995, Phaedra began her studies at the School of Law. As a first-generation law student, Parks worked hard to navigate her new environment and built strong, lasting relationships during her time in law school.
“It was an experience that groomed me for greatness,” said Parks. “Sometimes, being groomed for greatness comes with difficulties and moments of discomfort. However, if you can play the long game, success will follow.”
She recalls the support of Gregory Roseboro (AB ’84, JD ’87), former assistant dean and current adjunct professor at the UGA School of Law. His guidance made her journey possible and provided valuable insight she might not have received as a first-generation attorney. Most recently, Phaedra has provided support for law students and initiatives in honor of Roseboro’s impact.
Photo of Phaedra Parks and Gregory Roseboro, former assistant dean and current adjunct professor at the UGA School of Law.
She also remembers having direct access to Justice Robert Benham (JD ’70), former chief justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia, whose mentorship was a unique opportunity that may not have been available at another law school.
“As an alum, if anyone calls me and makes it known to me that they are a UGA graduate, I will take the call,” said Parks. “That’s the beauty of coming out of Georgia — the relationships you build. Being able to say you are a graduate opens door and create undeniable bonds.”
Phaedra is passionate about giving back and staying connected to UGA. As the immediate past president of UGA’s Law School Alumni Association, she has dedicated nearly 18 years of service and is currently the longest serving member on the Law School Alumni Council.
During her presidency, Phaedra worked to address challenges that resonated with her personally. She established the Safe Place Scholarship to address student homelessness and housing disparities. Additionally, she created the Phaedra C. Parks Scholarship to provide financial support to law students in need. The inaugural Phaedra C. Parks Scholarship recipient, Amber Greenaway (JD ’20), is now an adjunct professor of law at UGA.
“When you are trying to learn, the last thing you need to be concerned about is affording your education,” said Parks. “You can be a brilliant student, but if you have the added pressure of not being able to afford to be there then you can’t be laser-focused on learning, which may lead you to not being as successful as your colleagues who don’t have that distraction.”
Photo of Phaedra Parks and Justice Robert Benham, former chief justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia.
Phaedra has built an impressive career and is known as a multifaceted personality. In 2000, she founded The Parks Group, an Atlanta-based law firm specializing in intellectual property and entertainment law, where she currently serves as the managing partner. Over the years, she has represented high-profile clients and gained widespread recognition through her appearances on major platforms, including Fox News, The Real Housewives of Atlanta, and most recently, season 33 of Dancing with the Stars. Parks is also the author of the bestselling Secrets of the Southern Belle: How to Be Nice, Work Hard, Look Pretty, Have Fun, and Never Have an Off Moment.
Despite her success, Phaedra remains deeply committed to paying it forward and supporting the next generation. She continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of current students by giving to scholarship funds, providing mentorship and hosting annual events. Her journey shows that success is about more than personal achievement — it’s about making a difference and giving back.
