Tennessee Society of Health Care Social Workers (TSHCSW) Southeast Tennessee Council named Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, P.C. elder law and special needs care manager William “Dub” Ellis, LMSW, the 2026 Social Worker of the Year. Ellis was honored for his unwavering commitment to providing advocacy and support to the clients and families he serves.
“We are proud to see Dub receive this well-deserved recognition,” said Estate Planning Chair Greg Willett. “The honor reflects what we at Chambliss and across the community have long recognized: his strong work ethic, compassion, and the dedication he brings to helping his clients each day. He exemplifies the values we strive to uphold as a firm.”
While TSHCSW members celebrated National Social Workers Month at their March 25 Southeast Chapter meeting, Ellis was presented with the award by Mary Andrews, TSHCSW acting president. Recipients are nominated by their peers and selected by a vote of active members. This marks Ellis’s second time receiving the award, following Chambliss care manager Amy Boulware, who has also been recognized twice during her career.
“I’m very grateful for this honor and for the support of the organization,” said Ellis. “TSHCSW plays a supporting role in the work I do every day, and I couldn’t do it without this community. 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. He supports the Chambliss estate planning team by assisting individuals and families through complex health and life challenges, providing guidance and advocacy on care planning, insurance navigation, and access to medical and community resources. Ellis works closely with clients and interdisciplinary teams to address immediate needs while also planning for long-term care and well-being.
About TSHCSW
TSHCSW provides monthly continuing education opportunities and fosters connections among health care social workers and professionals in related fields in the greater Chattanooga area. As an affiliate of the Tennessee Hospital Association, the organization is committed to ongoing learning, professional development, and supporting its members as they navigate the challenges of patient care.
About Chambliss
Chambliss, founded in 1886, is a Chattanooga-based law firm serving local, regional, and national clients. With over 135 employees, the firm offers a wide range of legal services, including business, cybersecurity and data privacy, construction and real estate, estate planning, finance, health care, intellectual property, labor and employment, litigation, and mergers and acquisitions. The firm serves as counsel for businesses, financial institutions, local governments, families, individuals, and nonprofit organizations. For more information about the firm, please visit www.chamblisslaw.com.
