Spotlight on Cham Trotter: A Legal Luminary and Theatre Star Honored by UM Law School
Two retired judges are among recent inductees into the University of Mississippi’s Alumni Hall of Fame. They are Cham Trotter of Belzoni, left, and Betty Sanders of Greenwood.
The Greenwood Little Theatre community is beaming with pride as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of one of our own—William C. “Cham” Trotter—recently inducted into the University of Mississippi School of Law’s Alumni Hall of Fame. While his legal legacy spans over five decades, Greenwood audiences know him best for his dazzling performances on our stage, where he’s brought laughter, heart, and artistry to countless productions.
Cham Trotter: Mississippi’s Longest-Serving Judge—and a Theatre Icon
Cham Trotter’s name is synonymous with dedication. After graduating from UM’s law school in 1972, he embarked on a groundbreaking 52-year career as a municipal judge in Belzoni and Louise, retiring just this February as the longest-serving municipal judge in Mississippi’s history. His legal accolades are staggering: Mississippi Bar Association President (2001–02), recipient of the Bar’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and UM Law School’s 2015 Alumnus of the Year.
But here in Greenwood, Trotter is equally celebrated for his magnetic stage presence. A stalwart of Delta community theater, he’s starred in Greenwood Little Theatre musicals and comedies, captivating audiences with his wit and charm. Whether arguing a case in court or belting out a show tune, Trotter’s passion for serving his community shines through—proving that justice and artistry can thrive in harmony.
A Legacy Beyond the Bench
Trotter’s career is a masterclass in balancing gravitas and gusto. Beyond the courtroom, he’s been a tireless advocate for the arts, using theater to unite and uplift Delta communities. His performances in Indianola, Greenville, Belzoni, and Greenwood have made him a regional treasure, reminding us all that creativity is a vital thread in the fabric of civic life.
Honoring a Local Legend
While we cheer Trotter’s Hall of Fame induction, we’re equally proud to call him a Greenwood Little Theatre family member. His journey—from the courtroom to the spotlight—embodies the spirit of our mission: to celebrate stories that inspire, challenge, and connect us.
Want to dive deeper into Cham Trotter’s extraordinary career?
Read the full article in the Greenwood Commonwealth for more on his trailblazing legal work, theatrical triumphs, and the inspiring legacy he shares with fellow honoree Judge Betty W. Sanders. Click here to explore the story.