Recognizing the WDTN’s First Female AUSA, Devon L. Gosnell, during Women’s History Month

Memphis, TN– As we recognize and celebrate Women’s History Month in March, the U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to share and highlight the accomplishments of Ms. Devon L. Gosnell, the first female Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) to serve in the Western District of Tennessee. Ms. Gosnell was first appointed to serve as an AUSA in 1975 by United States Attorney Thomas F. Turley, Jr. In 1987, she was promoted to the position of Criminal Chief AUSA by United States Attorney W. Hickman Ewing, which was also the first time a woman held this management position in the office. As an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Ms. Gosnell handled both civil and criminal matters. She tried in excess of 100 jury cases, and handled over 40 appeals before the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. Ms. Gosnell served for nineteen years as an advocate for the people of the Western District of Tennessee, as a mentor, and as a leader. Because of her many firsts within the Department of Justice, Ms. Gosnell paved the way for so many women in our office. Today the U.S. Attorney’s office consists of 17 women Assistant United States Attorneys, including the current Criminal Chief and OCDETF Chief, thanks to Ms. Gosnell’s willingness to be the first.

Devon L. Gosnell graduated magna cum laude from West Virginia University in 1972 with a bachelor’s in political science. She earned her juris doctorate from West Virginia University in 1975 where she served on law review, the moot court board, and the moot court team. In 1982, she earned her MBA from the University of Memphis, and in 1995, she graduated from Harding University School of Theology with honors. Not only are Ms. Gosnell’s academic accomplishments worthy of recognition, but perhaps most notable are her achievements as a woman.

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