University of Tennessee System President Randy Boyd concluded the 2024 “Find Your UT” tour, traveling more than 1,300 miles to 14 high schools across 10 counties. Meeting over 1,500 students and educators, Boyd shared the opportunities available through the UT System’s five campuses. Since 2019, these outreach efforts have reached approximately 7,400 students and educators. Boyd emphasized UT’s commitment to access and affordability, highlighting that nearly half of UT students graduate debt free, supported by the UT Promise program. “We’re making education attainable and ensuring every Tennessee student knows they have a place in the UT family,” Boyd said.
UT System Enrollment on Pace to Exceed Target
Despite declining national college enrollment trends, the University of Tennessee System has experienced five consecutive years of record growth, with a current enrollment of 62,208 students, marking a 18.4 percent increase since 2020. This growth trajectory positions the UT System to exceed its 2030 goal of 71,000 students across all campuses.
All UT undergraduate campuses experienced enrollment gains, with the flagship UT Knoxville recording a 26.7 percent increase in enrollment from 2020. The UT System’s newest campus, UT Southern, posted a 28.8 percent increase from 2020. UT Martin had a 5.4 percent increase, and UT Chattanooga showed a 1.2 percent increase from 2020. Enrollment gains from 2023-24 include increases of 8 percent at UT Martin, 7 percent at UT Southern, 6.7 percent at UT Knoxville and 4 percent at UT Chattanooga. First-year retention rates across the UT System increased 2 percent since 2020, while four-year graduation rates increased 4.9 percent since 2020. UT System President Randy Boyd stated that the growth highlights the system’s success in expanding access, improving recruitment and supporting students.
University of Tennessee President’s Council Honors Leaders
The University of Tennessee President’s Council held its 10th annual showcase and awards dinner where UT honored four award recipients for their dedication and service. Dr. Brian Winbigler, a 2003 UT Knoxville and 2014 UT Health Science Center alumnus, was inducted into the UT Alumni Association Past Presidents Council. Ron Frieson, a 1981 UT Knoxville graduate, received the President’s Council Service Award. The Kennedy Foundation was honored with the Philanthropist of the Year Award. Sara Croley and her husband, Ross, received the Jim and Natalie Haslam Presidential Medal. UT System President Randy Boyd praised the award winners for their leadership and service, highlighting their role in shaping future leaders, strengthening communities and contributing to a lasting legacy for Tennessee.
