Tennessee Volunteers contributed to a milestone of more than $428 million in donor support to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, during the 2024-25 fiscal year—leading to UT’s largest fundraising total in history. This achievement comes just one year after UT surpassed $300 million in philanthropic support for the first time and is more than double the support the university received in fiscal year 2020-21.
Included in this milestone, donors contributed a record $92 million toward the university’s endowment, strengthening UT’s ability to adapt to changing needs and enhancing the Volunteer experience for generations to come.
More than 70,000 donors—ranging from first-time supporters to those making transformational gifts—made this level of generosity possible, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing UT’s mission as Tennessee’s flagship, land-grant university.
$428+
million received
70,000+
donors
12,000+
student scholarships
“This milestone reflects the incredible support of our alumni and friends, their deep love for UT, and their belief in the importance of the work we do,” said Chancellor Donde Plowman. “Each contribution helps us make a difference in the lives of Tennesseans through education, research, economic development, and community service.”
Generosity from the Volunteer community continues to elevate every part of the university—from student scholarships to cutting-edge research to championship athletics.
Creating Pathways to Success
Donors funded more than 12,000 student scholarships totaling more than $30 million, providing a solid foundation for academic success. This contributed to the university’s record 91.9% first-year retention rate, and enabled 96% of first-year students the opportunity to receive scholarships or financial aid.
A UT Torchbearer and beneficiary of multiple scholarships and privately supported programs, Tyler Myers (’25) has a deep understanding of donors’ importance to the student experience.
As UT’s first recipient of the highly selective Churchill Scholarship, Myers will pursue a master’s degree at the University of Cambridge to further his goal of leading a medical research lab focused on the gut microbiome and new interventions for neurological diseases like Parkinson’s.
“It’s not just opportunities donors enable, it’s knowing there are people invested in my success—that’s the intangible value garnered from alumni and donor support to students,” said Myers. “It gives me a sense of responsibility—I’ve been charged to be my best self and take advantage of every opportunity. It’s an invitation to put myself outside my comfort zone, to try new things. Having that moral support through scholarships and activities that donors give to UT has been priceless.”
From expanded facilities across campus to new academic programs, donor generosity means students like Myers have more opportunities and tools to lead in their chosen fields, filling workforce needs in Tennessee and excelling wherever their professional lives take them.
It’s not just opportunities donors enable, it’s knowing there are people invested in my success—that’s the intangible value garnered from alumni and donor support to students.”
Tyler Myers (’25)
Transformational Gifts Leave a Lasting Legacy
This year’s transformational gifts made a powerful impact across campus, reflecting our donors’ deep commitment to advancing UT’s mission and building lasting opportunity for all Volunteers.
The 2024-25 fiscal year was marked by several notable moments:
Winston College of Law: In May, UT named its College of Law in recognition of a transformative gift from the Bill Gatton Foundation honoring law alumnus Frank Winston. This gift positions the college—the university’s fifth named college—to competitively recruit top students who will lead in the classroom, the community, and the legal profession. It also marks the second named college at UT Knoxville in less than one year, after the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music was named in June of 2024.
Alan and Wendy Wilson Communication and Leadership Academy: Supported by a gift from Alan and Wendy Wilson, this new initiative—housed in the College of Communication and Information in partnership with the Haslam College of Business—equips students with essential communication and leadership skills to thrive in today’s competitive professional landscape.
Baker Scholars Program: The Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs launched an endowed scholarship initiative in October 2024, preparing the next generation of leaders for impactful careers in government, public service, and civic engagement.
Support for student veterans: Thanks to the generosity of John and Debbie Grubb, UT will enhance scholarships, research and instructional support, and services for student veterans, reinforcing the university’s commitment to supporting its veteran community.
Every Gift Makes a Difference
While transformational gifts fuel the student experience in a major way, more than 9,800 donors from UT’s annual day of giving, Big Orange Give, raised $2.5 million—with most gifts at $100 or less. Any level of gift can make a difference to Tennessee lives, even in unexpected ways—like the care of a premature foal at the UT College of Veterinary Medicine.
The Equine Rehabilitation Research Fund received 548 gifts during Big Orange Give, many in honor of Baby Seven, making it the campaign’s most popular fund and helping the college train the next generation of veterinarians.
A Vision Fueled by Belief in UT’s Mission
Whether UT donors chose to support life-changing research, student access to education, or championship-level athletics, every gift means UT can advance its vision for a stronger future for all Vols—and for all Tennesseans.
“This year’s success is the result of a Volunteer community that believes in this university and what it stands for,” said Brian Broyles, senior vice chancellor for advancement. “UT is a profound investment—one that is changing lives and shaping the future. We are truly grateful for the generosity of our donors and what they make possible.”
UT Knoxville’s record-setting year also helped drive a broader milestone across the UT System, with the UT Foundation receiving more than $492 million from donors across all five campuses statewide.
