Kent Weeks

Kent McCuskey Weeks, 82, of Nashville, died peacefully on July 30. Kent was an attorney, professor, visionary, and leader of the family frolics.

Kent practiced law in Nashville where he focused on legal issues affecting higher education. His writing was informed by his students. He wrote several books, published many articles, and edited Lex Collegii, a quarterly newsletter for independent colleges. He consulted with colleges throughout the United States and served as general counsel to Africa University in Zimbabwe for more than 20 years. Africa University engages the central and southern regions of Africa, training future leaders for their home countries. His work with Africa University was his greatest professional passion.

For 25 years, he also taught students in public policy, school law and higher education law at Peabody College, Vanderbilt University, where he was awarded the Peabody College Roundtable Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Involved in many community activities, he chaired the first elected School Board for Nashville Davidson County. He was later honored for his work in obtaining a settlement of the twenty-eight-year desegregation litigation. His three children attended public schools during this time of desegregation.

A Fulbright scholar, Kent earned a law degree from Duke University where he met his wife, Karen.  He also earned a PhD in political science from Case Western Reserve, MA from the University of New Zealand and a BA from the College of Wooster in Ohio. His professional association named Kent as a Fellow in recognition of exceptional scholarship and service.

He loved to travel—especially by bicycle—and handed down the enjoyment of exploring to his children and grandchildren.

Kent Weeks is survived by his wife, Karen H. Weeks, and children, Kevin M. Weeks (Cyndy Burns Weeks), Barton Weeks, and Kristen Weeks Neal (Gregory E. Neal) and six grandchildren: Ahna Weeks, Elle Weeks, Gillian Weeks, Austin Weeks, Kate Neal, and Sydney Neal.

A celebration of his life to honor him will be virtual in the coming week.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Nashville Public Education Foundation: 1207 18th Ave, S, #202, Nashville, TN 37212 (nashvillepef.org); Africa University Development Office, PO Box 34007 University Development Office, Nashville, TN 37203 (support-africauniversity.org) or the charity of your choice.