2024 Trailblazer: Frank M. McClellan (1945-2023)

The Philadelphia Bar Foundation proudly honors Frank M. McClellan (1945–2023) as the recipient of the 2024 Trailblazer for Justice Award for his lifelong dedication to advancing justice, equity, and the rule of law. A distinguished attorney, law professor, and author, McClellan's career was defined by his unwavering commitment to civil rights, health law, and ensuring equitable access to justice for underserved communities in Philadelphia and beyond.
McClellan spent more than 35 years as a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, where he shaped the careers of countless attorneys, instilling in them a passion for public service and ethical advocacy. His scholarship in health law and medical malpractice was instrumental in shaping policies that protect patients’ rights and promote equitable healthcare access. His book, Medical Malpractice: Law, Tactics, and Ethics, remains a critical resource for legal professionals.

Beyond academia, McClellan was a fierce advocate for justice in Philadelphia’s legal community. As a managing partner at Eaton & McClellan, a law business he founded with his longtime friend Allen Eaton, he fought tirelessly for victims of medical malpractice, institutional negligence, and racial discrimination (Jackson). His major casework included landmark medical malpractice suits that helped secure greater accountability for healthcare providers, ensuring that underserved communities received fair treatment under the law. He also played a pivotal role in civil rights litigation, challenging discriminatory practices in housing, education, and public accommodations.

McClellan’s impact extended beyond the courtroom. He was a mentor, advocate, and community leader, frequently collaborating with local civil rights organizations to expand legal protections for marginalized populations. His work leaves a lasting imprint on Philadelphia’s legal and social justice communities, inspiring a new generation of attorneys committed to the fight for equality.

A true trailblazer for justice, McClellan passed away in December 2023, leaving behind a profound legacy of legal excellence and advocacy. The Philadelphia Bar Foundation is honored to celebrate his extraordinary contributions and lasting impact on justice in Philadelphia and beyond.

Reference
Jackson, James. “Frank M. McClellan, Lawyer, Law Professor and Author, Dies at 78.” The Philadelphia Tribune, 18 Dec. 2023, www.phillytrib.com/obituaries/frank-m-mcclellan-lawyer-law-professor-and-author-dies-at-78/article_f9e05406-dcaf-52f7-a2c2-0614604bcfe9.html.