Our Administration
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is part of the UT system, a statewide institution governed by a twenty-six-member Board of Trustees, all of whom are appointed by the governor of Tennessee.
Chancellor Jimmy G. Cheek is our chief operating officer and is responsible for the administration and management of the flagship campus in Knoxville. The chancellor also sits on the UT-Battelle Board of Governors. As an officer of the University of Tennessee system, he reports to the president and is elected annually by the Board of Trustees upon the recommendation of the president.
Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Susan Martin oversees the academic activities of the campus and reports directly to the chancellor. The chancellor’s senior staff oversees other aspects of the university in divisions that include finance and administration, communications, student life, athletics, research and engagement, development and alumni affairs, and human resources.
UT System Administration
President Joe DiPietro is the chief executive officer of the University of Tennessee system, which comprises campuses in Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Martin; the Health Science Center in Memphis; and the statewide Institute of Agriculture and Institute of Public Service.
The University of Tennessee system co-manages Oak Ridge National Laboratory with Battelle, one of the world’s largest private independent research and development organizations. The president sits on the UT-Battelle Board of Governors. The president is appointed by and is an ex-officio member of the Board of Trustees.