KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee Foundation Board of Directors held its annual meeting on June 13, 2025, in Knoxville, celebrating fundraising success and welcoming new leadership.

The UT Foundation has continued its upward trajectory, raising $450 million as of June 1, 2025. UTFI President Kerry Witcher noted that this is ahead of fundraising totals from the same time last year.

“With the innovation and impact happening throughout the campuses, the commitment of alumni, friends and donors is stronger than ever,” said Witcher. “In addition, our statewide team remains dedicated to the mission and their ingenuity in all facets of our work continues to push us forward.”

UT Foundation Chief Financial Officer Adam Heller presented the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget, which was unanimously approved by the Board. The budget anticipates $5.6 million in overall revenue growth, attributed to factors including increased endowment market value, investment earnings and additional campus support to fund the FY 2026 salary pool.

Nominating and Governance Chair Emily Capadalis Love presented the slate for director nominations. The Board approved the re-election of four current directors: Jeannie Beauchamp, Karen Bowling, Doug Haney and Alan Wilson. Currently serving as the UT Alumni Association past president representative, Brian Winbigler, a graduate of both UT Knoxville and the UT Health Science Center, was elected to a three-year term beginning July 1, 2025.

The meeting closed by recognizing retiring Directors Yancy Freeman, Linda Martin and Debbie Ingram and thanking them for their service.

The UT Foundation Board of Directors will meet again on November 7, 2025.

Contact:
Jackie Wise
Phone: 865-974-2575
Email: [email protected]