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Connecting Women
The Alliance is a network of alumnae who recognize the powerful tradition of women who make positive change in the university community.
Inspiring Participation
Any Tennessee alumna who gives $25,000, at once or over time, becomes part of this powerful group of motivated and engaged women.
Improving Lives
Through grants and initiatives funded by the Giving Circle, the Alliance identifies needs and brings positive change to the University of Tennessee community.

The Alliance was created in 1998 to raise awareness of the integral role women play in philanthropy at the University of Tennessee.

Today the group has more than 4,800 members nationwide and is recognized as one of the UT System’s most active and well-respected volunteer groups. In fact, universities across the nation have modeled their women’s philanthropy groups after the Alliance, fostering a sense of unity and pride among their female donors.

$703,246

76 UT programs have received more than since the creation of the Giving Circle in 2007

Who can join?

Membership is open to all women who have made a financial commitment of $25,000 or more, independently or with their spouse, to any UT campus or institute. Members may reach this level through many years of giving, a pledge or outright contribution or an estate gift.

Why should I participate?

In a word: connection. You will become part of a network of women from all walks of life who share a passion for UT. Alliance members meet UT leadership, faculty and some of the university’s best and brightest students at events that take place throughout the year. These events, such as the Alliance’s annual symposium and regional membership gatherings, are unparalleled opportunities to learn more about the university’s initiatives and to form relationships with other UT women.

How does the Alliance impact UT?

The Alliance’s major initiative is its Giving Circle grants program. These funds support UT as the driving force for Tennessee’s future — an institution with the vision and talent to produce the graduates and discoveries needed to solve challenges that affect the people of Tennessee.

“In helping others, we shall help ourselves, for whatever good we give our completes the circle and comes back to us.”

—Flora Edwards

Alliance initiatives are impactful.

Some of the ways Alliance initiatives have impacted people and programs across the University of Tennessee.

Contact Alliance

Program Director

Melissa Smith
Director of Alumni Marketing
and Special Events [email protected]
(865) 974-7544

Get in Touch

(865) 974-2115 or send us an email at [email protected].

Physical Address

Alliance for Women Philanthropists
1525 University Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37921

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