The 2024 Rev. John J. Cavanaugh, C.S.C., Award: J. Martin Regan Jr. '76
In recognition of his commitment to philanthropy and compassionate public service in his hometown of Memphis, the Notre Dame Alumni Association honors J. Martin Regan Jr. ’76 with this award.
Perhaps better known as Marty, Regan received his foundational education from Dominican nuns in grade school before attending Christian Brothers High School in Memphis. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1976 with a bachelor's degree in philosophy and earned his law degree from the University of Tennessee College of Law in 1978.
A dedicated advocate for public service, Regan has devoted much of his career and personal life to his hometown, where he is a fifth-generation descendant of Irish heritage dating back to 1840. Though he practices law privately, he has served as Senior Staff Attorney to the City of Memphis since 1990.
In addition to his role with the City of Memphis, Regan has held positions such as General Counsel for Southern College of Optometry and the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis. As the Planned Giving Director for the Community Foundation since 1985, he has been instrumental in growing its fund balance from $14 million to over $1.3 billion. His leadership extends to his roles on the boards of the Memphis Grizzlies Foundation, Memphis Land Bank, and Alpha Omega Veterans Services, among others. Regan also supports various nonprofits throughout the Greater Memphis community.
Notably, he was honored as Sportsman of the Year by the Memphis Commercial Appeal for his pivotal role in relocating the Memphis Grizzlies NBA franchise from Vancouver. Regan has received accolades from organizations including the Jewish Foundation of Memphis, the Tennessee Association of Mental Health Organizations, and the National Conference for Justice, among others.
Regan has been a trusted advisor to mayors, bishops, and numerous nonprofits, often providing pro bono legal services. He played a key role in the revival of the Jubilee Schools, an initiative focused on reopening inner-city Catholic schools, and he continues to engage with organizations serving underprivileged communities.
Inspired by Paul’s letter to the Colossians, Regan strives to incorporate the values of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and above all, love, into his daily life.
“I am humbled to be nominated by my five Class of 1976 roommates, Mike Apfeld, Jim Keegan, Mike Laird, Bob McDonnell, and Tim Scully to receive an award celebrating service. Each of these lifelong friends since college is equally if not more deserving than I am.”