The 2025 UT Health Science Center Family Campaign exceeded its goal of 800 donors. The monthlong campaign in September encouraged the UT Health Science Center family—faculty, staff, students and trainees—across the statewide campuses to give any amount to a college, department, program, scholarship or existing fund of their choice. The Family Campaign aims to foster a culture of philanthropy within the university to support the UTHSC mission and vision for a healthier Tennessee. The 2025 campaign surpassed 2024’s total of 765 donors.
Harkrider Named Dean of College of Health Professions
After 16 years as chair of the Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology in the UT Health Science Center College of Health Professions, Ashley Harkrider began her new role as dean Oct. 1.
Harkrider (Knoxville ’95) served since March 2025 as the interim dean of the College of Health Professions, which includes audiology and speech pathology, based in Knoxville, and physical therapy, occupational therapy, and diagnostic and health sciences, based in Memphis.
An alumna of the Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, Harkrider has led the department’s growth in enrollment, clinical care, research and community outreach since 2009. She also presided over the $20 million renovation of the department’s home in the UT Conference Center in Knoxville, which opened in 2024. As dean, Harkrider will continue to be based in Knoxville, yet serve across the state.
Second Vols Football Watch Party a Victory
UT Health Science Center, in partnership with the Memphis Medical District Collaborative, hosted its second Vols Football Watch Party on Oct. 25. Inclement weather prompted a venue change from Medical District Park to a nearby restaurant, but the Tennessee spirit remained strong. Dozens of students, faculty, staff and friends gathered to cheer the Vols to victory over Kentucky while enjoying food, games, music and camaraderie.
New Statewide Effort to Tackle State’s Cancer Crisis
UT Health Science Center hosted the inaugural Tennessee Statewide Cancer Collaborative Oct. 29-30 in Nashville. The conference united researchers, clinicians and policymakers to chart a path toward a stronger, more coordinated statewide cancer strategy.
Organized by Vice Chancellor for Research Jessica Snowden, the event highlighted ways to strengthen collaboration, expand research infrastructure and attract state and federal support for cancer research and care. It included a keynote address; plenary sessions focused on clinical research, population health, translational research and drug discovery; and networking events for attendees to form partnerships across institutions and disciplines.
Tennessee ranks sixth in cancer deaths nationwide, with only three of its 95 counties reporting mortality rates below the national average.