Former UT Martin graduate, doctor, and attorney Dr. Paul Blaylock has filed a $15.7 million lawsuit against UT Martin.
The lawsuit alleges a breach of contract, infliction of emotional distress, violation of intellectual property, violation of Tennessee Charitable Donor Statute, and defamation libel.
Dr. Blaylock, former South Fulton native, gifted the University $2.5 million in order to build the Blaylock Inspiration Oracle, which was dedicated in 2023 and features the open air Parthenon on campus.
The lawsuit states that the structure was supposed to feature plaques with inspirational quotes which were removed.
In 2023 UTM Administrator Petra McPhearson informed Dr. Blaylock that the quotes lacked diversity and would be covered up from view.
Dr. Blaylock is seeking $10 million in economic damages, $750,000 in non-economic damages, $5 million in punitive damages, and that the plaques are re-installed.
UTM has no comment on the situation at this time. The University has filed a motion for dismissal; the hearing is scheduled for October 28th.
