February 2025 Advisory Board Agenda and Minutes
Webcast Documents


UT Knoxville has one of the best nuclear engineering programs in the country and some of the world’s top experts in the field. This confluence of partnership and resources is why no region is better positioned to be a national leader in nuclear innovation than East Tennessee—and why no institution is better prepared to help lead us there than UT.

In his remarks, Alexander reminded us all that while public service has its challenges, it is a fulfilling and impactful way to make a difference in our communities and our country. He encouraged students across disciplines to step up as leaders in their communities.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this success this year, both on campus and in our community. Congratulations to our fall graduates. I look forward to the new year and all the opportunities ahead.
UT Knoxville has been on the rise. As we continue to meet the goals that we have set for ourselves, it is time to think about what comes next. What will it take to bring UT to the next level?


Chancellor Donde Plowman sat down with UT Head Baseball Coach Tony Vitello to talk about his approach to leadership on and off the field.

This fall, we celebrated our highest retention and graduation rates ever at nearly 92 percent and 74 percent, respectively. The gains we’ve seen since launching the Division of Student Success five years ago—with retention up 5 percentage points and graduation up 3 percentage points—have bolstered our national reputation as a leader in supporting students and improving outcomes.

Chancellor Donde Plowman and Vice Provost for Student Success Amber Williams discussed the university’s innovative work around student well-being and belonging with Inside Higher Ed this month, ahead of the university co-hosting the Student Success US conference.

Volunteers across the university have been part of Hurricane Helene relief efforts by providing assistance and resources to communities in need.