Second only to God, I owe my life to veterans. I believe that is true for every person in America, but for me, personally, it’s literally true. Both my mom and dad are Army veterans, and my wife, Jenny, was adopted by an Army veteran and his wife in Germany, so I have a real awareness and appreciation for all that our military veterans and their families sacrifice in their service to our nation.
Our campuses and institutes across the state go above and beyond to support and honor those who have selflessly served (and continue to serve) our country. Throughout this edition of Our Tennessee, you’ll learn about some extraordinary faculty, staff and alumni across our campuses and institutes who are making a profound impact, which has been influenced by their service to our country. From veteran faculty members who are making significant advancements in research fighting suicide and depression that exists among some of our veterans to alumni who are on the front lines, they all have one thing in common: They are all selfless servant leaders.
“Thank you” will never be enough for our veterans and current military service members. We are committed to helping ensure our UT campuses and institutes are among the best places in the country for veterans, or those who aspire to begin a life of military service, to acquire or enhance the skills that will make a lasting impact on our communities, our state and our world.
Randy Boyd, Knoxville ’79
