Juan Jose Perez Inducted Into TICUA Hall of Fame
The Lee University graduate was honored for his professional contributions and work with the Vista Village microhome project.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in People
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The Tennessee Independent Colleges and Universities Association inducted Juan Jose Perez into its 2026 Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes alumni from member institutions who have made significant impacts in Tennessee and across the globe.
Why it matters
The award highlights the diverse career of Perez, a founding partner of the law firm Perez Morris and a community advocate. His career spans legal practice, health system leadership, and the development of housing initiatives aimed at fostering economic independence.
The 2026 induction class included 25 total alumni chosen from the 34 colleges and universities within the TICUA network. Perez remains active in various sectors, including a law firm that maintains offices across six different states.
The players
Juan Jose Perez
He is a founding partner of the law firm Perez Morris and a graduate of Lee University.
Tennessee Independent Colleges and Universities Association
This organization represents 34 private, nonprofit colleges and universities throughout Tennessee.
Mike DeWine
He is the Governor of Ohio who appointed Perez to The Ohio State University Board of Trustees in 2022.
The details
Juan Jose Perez is a graduate of Lee University who later co-founded the Vista Village microhome community, which features 41 units designed to provide wraparound social services. His past leadership experience includes serving as the board chair for the Mount Carmel Health System from 2013 to 2016.
Timeline
Juan Jose Perez served as board chair of Mount Carmel Health System from 2013 to 2016.
The Joan E. Perez Endowed Scholarship Fund was established at Lee University in 2019.
Governor Mike DeWine appointed Perez to The Ohio State University Board of Trustees in 2022.
Perez was inducted into the TICUA Hall of Fame in 2026.
Market Landscape
This induction reflects the ongoing trend of private universities leveraging the career successes of alumni to bolster institutional reputation and philanthropic engagement. It positions these institutions within a competitive environment where donor and student retention are tied to long-term professional accomplishments.
The recognition of Perez may influence philanthropic trends at Lee University and other member institutions. Future students and alumni could see increased focus on the scholarship funds and social service programs similar to those established by the honoree.
The takeaway
The Hall of Fame induction highlights the intersection of private higher education and community-focused entrepreneurship. Readers can see how alumni networks often serve as the foundation for broader public service and corporate leadership roles.
Further reading
Explore more leadership profiles on the Tennessee People section of our site.
More information
For more information on the award, visit the Tennessee Independent Colleges and Universities Association website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chattanoogan.
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