Joe Scogin has been named assistant provost, director of the Thornton Athletics Student Life Center, and senior associate athletic director. He will begin in May.
Scogin is currently the associate athletic director at the University of Missouri.
The Thornton Center helps student-athletes balance the difficult demands of their academic and athletic schedules by providing academic support services. NCAA rules require colleges and universities to provide these services for student-athletes. At UT, these services fall within the academic structure of the university.
“Over the last two years, we’ve made some important changes at the Thornton Center to strengthen the bridge between academics and athletics,” said Susan Martin, provost and senior vice chancellor for academic affairs. “Joe has a strong background in both academics and athletics; he will be an effective liaison between the two and provide a positive influence on the lives of our student-athletes.”
Dave Hart, vice chancellor and director of athletics, agreed: “Joe Scogin brings an exceptional skill set to a critical leadership position as director of the Thornton Center. Academics and athletics have good reason to share a collective excitement about the positive strides we will experience under his direction.”
Scogin has been at the University of Missouri since 2001, most recently serving as associate athletic director for academic services. During his leadership tenure, the University of Missouri has seen record performances in graduation success rates, academic progress rates, and grade point averages. Missouri regularly performed at the top of the Big 12 Conference in all academic categories and recently has seen similar performances in the Southeastern Conference.
“I’m energized about the program and becoming part of the Volunteer family,” Scogin said. “I look forward to working with administrators, faculty, and coaches to create a program that’s nationally respected for its excellence.”
Scogin has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in health and human performance and sports administration from Fort Hays State University. He has a doctorate in education, school, and counseling psychology from the University of Missouri.
He serves on the board of directors for the National Association of Academic Advisors for Athletics (N4A). Scogin recently provided leadership as the chair of the University of Missouri United Way campaign. He is also a member of the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association and has served on the Big 12 Legislative Services Committee and Academic Committee.
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C O N T A C T :
Amy Blakely (865-974-5034, ablakely@utk.edu)