A Vision for the Future: A Message from the Dean

At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, we stand at the intersection of tradition and transformation. The College of Arts and Sciences is an integral part of Tennessee’s premier public university. As leaders in research, education, and public service, we are uniquely positioned to serve as a vibrant hub for this modern land-grant university.
We are not only the intellectual heart of UT, but we are also a driving force for innovation, discovery, and outreach across the university and beyond. From cutting-edge research in STEM fields to thought-provoking explorations in the humanities and social sciences, we provide the foundational knowledge, skills, and personalized experiences that empower students to lead, serve, and shape the future.
Our new chemistry building is one major step we are taking for future innovation at UT. This facility will enable us to meet the increasing demand for our Department of Chemistry to provide high-quality chemistry education and training for the next generation of leaders in this field. Learn more about opportunities to advocate and invest with us at the department’s website.
Our vision for the future is built on accessibility, collaboration, and real-world application. We are committed to:
BRIDGING CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY – Partnering with businesses, policymakers, educators, and civic leaders to ensure that our research, teaching, and engagement address today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.
EXPANDING RESEARCH AND DISCOVERY – Investing in interdisciplinary collaboration that allows scholars to tackle complex problems in areas such as sustainability, social justice, and technological advancement.
REIMAGINING LEARNING SPACES – Creating immersive, hands-on experiences that extend far beyond the classroom, ensuring students graduate with the skills, adaptability, and confidence to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
STRENGTHENING THE WORKFORCE OF TOMORROW – Through experiential learning, global engagement, and research-driven education, we prepare students for careers that span industries, disciplines, and borders.
Our students, faculty, programs, and facilities all benefit from the investment by those who want to make our world a better place through the study and application of the arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. We ask you to help us shape the next generation of leaders by making a gift to the college.
We hope you enjoy learning about the activities and achievements we have shared in this issue of Higher Ground, and we thank you for being a part of our community as a college on the rise.