Episode 12

The Volunteer Spirit: Chancellor Donde Plowman’s Vision for UT Knoxville

March 26th, 2026

21 mins 34 secs

Season 1

Your Host

About this Episode

What does it mean to truly "be a volunteer" at one of the country's most iconic universities?

Chancellor Donde Plowman shares how she is shifting the University of Tennessee Knoxville from a reactive to a proactive institution, focusing on inclusivity and strategic community engagement.

In her first few months as Chancellor, Dr. Plowman has prioritised listening to the campus community through open office hours and state-wide engagement. She discusses the university's 225-year legacy, the importance of its land-grant mission, and the unique competitive advantage offered by its proximity to Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Great Smoky Mountains.

Listen to the full episode to discover how UT Knoxville is shaping the next decade of higher education in Tennessee.