Renaissance Bear
Jeff Dorrill, B.B.A. ’83, J.D. ’85, is a testament to boundless curiosity and dedication. While his primary professional focus is as a partner in the Real Estate Practice Group at Haynes Boone’s Dallas office, where he structures complex agreements for real estate, technology and energy businesses, his life outside the courtroom embodies the spirit of a true Baylor Renaissance man.
Dorrill’s intellectual curiosity is evident in his deep commitment to scholarship. He has authored more than 35 scholarly works in prestigious journals, including the SMU Law Review and the Baylor Law Review. Demonstrating that learning is a lifelong pursuit, he recently added a third master’s degree, studying criminal justice at the University of Southern California.
This same dedication fuels his passion for children’s literature. Inspired by the caregivers who shaped his upbringing and a desire to celebrate the magic of chosen family, Dorrill created the celebrated and award-winning children’s book, Brunt and Eggbert.
Brunt is a kind and intelligent monster who loves gardening, while Eggbert is an orphaned boy who is resourceful and longs for a family. After a chance encounter in the woods, the two form an unlikely, familial bond, overcoming their initial fears and the challenges of living in both the human and monster worlds. Readers will come to appreciate the importance of chosen family, acceptance and not judging others based on appearances.
The book has garnered national attention, earning major accolades including the International Impact Book Awards’ 2024 winner for Best Children’s Picture Book and 2025 finalist for Author of the Year, as well as the 2025 San Francisco Book Festival Award for Best Children’s Book.
Beyond his writing desk, Dorrill is a decorated athlete. He is a
multiple national titleholder in triathlon, including a three-time designation as the Ultra-Distance Triathlon National Champion in his age group, as well as an Ironman athlete.
Whether he is guiding multi-million dollar transactions, winning national athletic championships or writing stories that inspire children about the importance of family, Dorrill always brings the same passion and perseverance.