Jones Foster's Travis J. Foels Talks 40 Gators Under 40 Recognition, UF Law, and Giving Back
Jones Foster litigation shareholder Travis J. Foels recently returned to his alma mater, the University of Florida, for its inaugural Alumni Weekend, where he was recognized as a 2026 40 Gators Under 40 honoree alongside an accomplished group of young alumni who have made a lasting impact in their professions and communities.
Travis is one of just two graduates of the UF Levin College of Law honored in this year's class and one of nine honorees representing the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His recognition builds on Jones Foster's longstanding relationship with the University of Florida Levin College of Law, a connection that spans more than a century, beginning with the firm's founders. Today, nearly half of the firm's attorneys have earned J.D. or LL.M. degrees from UF Law.
We sat down with Travis to learn more about his lifelong connection to the University of Florida, what this recognition means to him, and the mentors who have helped shape him into the attorney he is today.
Q&A with Travis J. Foels, University of Florida 40 Gators Under 40 Honoree
What does being named a 40 Gators Under 40 Honoree mean to you?
Being named a 40 Gators Under 40 Honoree is incredibly meaningful to me. Both my parents graduated from UF. All three of my siblings went to school there. I met my wife there. Some of my earliest memories are going to football games in the Swamp. The university has played such an important role in my life and will forever hold a special place in my heart. I am truly proud to be recognized by my alma mater and included among so many accomplished alumni.
Looking back, how did your time at UF Law help shape the attorney you are today?
UF Law had a huge impact on my professional development. Academically, it taught me how to work hard, think critically, and communicate effectively. It also provided opportunities to develop practical skills and the confidence necessary to succeed in the practice of law. But just as important, I believe, were the relationships I formed at UF Law. The professors, classmates, and alumni I met helped shape my professional path and taught me valuable lessons that I still rely on today. Many of my former classmates remain some of my closest friends. The first-rate education, combined with a supportive community and alumni network that is genuinely invested in helping students succeed, make UF Law a truly special place.
Since graduating, you've remained actively involved with UF Law and now serve on the Law Alumni Council Board of Directors. Why has staying engaged with the university been important to you?
Staying engaged with UF Law has always felt like a natural way to give back to an institution that has contributed so much to my life and career. I benefited from the guidance and generosity of those who came before me, and I believe it is important to pay that forward by supporting the next generation of students and young alumni.
Your commitment to UF extends beyond alumni involvement, as you also play a key role in identifying talent for Jones Foster as Recruiting Shareholder. How has your Gator experience influenced the way you help build the firm's future?
My time at UF has naturally shaped the way I approach recruiting. As Florida's flagship university, UF has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and developing leaders who make meaningful contributions in their professions and communities. Throughout my time there, I was surrounded by a culture that valued hard work, intellectual curiosity, and leadership. When recruiting, I look for individuals who embody those same qualities—people who are committed to excellence, eager to learn, motivated to grow, and driven to make a meaningful impact on those around them.
About Jones Foster
Jones Foster is a full-service commercial and private client law firm headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, with offices in Palm Beach and Jupiter. Tracing its roots back to 1924, the firm has served as an integral part of South Florida’s growth and prosperity. Through a relentless pursuit of excellence, Jones Foster delivers original legal solutions that help clients, colleagues, and the community to move forward. A significant number of attorneys have received the designation of Board-Certified Specialist by The Florida Bar in their specific practice area. The firm’s practice groups include Complex Litigation & Dispute Resolution; Corporate & Tax; Land Use & Governmental; Private Wealth, Wills, Trusts & Estates; Real Estate; and Trust & Estate Litigation. For more information, please visit www.jonesfoster.com.