Marieke Van Puymbroeck has been appointed vice provost and dean of the Graduate School of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Van Puymbroeck comes to UT from Clemson University, where she currently serves as associate dean of the graduate school and professor of recreational therapy. Her appointment will begin July 1.
“Dr. Van Puymbroeck brings extensive experience to graduate education, with a clear focus on mentorship, career development and industry engagement,” said Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor John Zomchick. “Her leadership will help provide our graduate and professional students with support to be academically successful and well prepared for meaningful careers across a range of fields.”
Commitment to Mentorship and Career Development
As associate dean of Clemson’s graduate school, Van Puymbroeck has been a dedicated advocate for the health and well-being of graduate and professional students, leading initiatives to improve mental health access, reduce health care costs and expand wellness resources.
Van Puymbroeck launched Clemson’s Graduate Center for Transformational Mentorship, which focuses on fostering a more supportive academic environment through training for faculty, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. She implemented Clemson’s Accelerate to Industry program, providing experiential opportunities for graduate students interested in exploring careers in industry.
Renowned Graduate Programs
UT’s Graduate School has consistently been ranked among the best in the nation. Earlier this year, U.S. News & World Report recognized the university’s programs in engineering, business, law, nursing, communication and education in its 2025 Best Graduate Schools rankings. The accolades reflect the university’s ongoing commitment to excellence in graduate education across colleges and disciplines.
“I am excited and honored to join the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and to serve as vice provost and dean of the Graduate School,” Van Puymbroeck said. “UT’s strong commitment to student success, innovation and community engagement deeply resonates with my own values. I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff and students to enhance mentorship, expand professional development opportunities, and prepare our graduate and professional students for meaningful and impactful careers.”
Amy Cathey, associate dean for graduate and executive education and Distinguished Lecturer in UT’s Haslam College of Business, has served as interim vice provost and dean of the Graduate School since January.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Tyra Haag (865-974-5460, tyra.haag@tennessee.edu)
Sean Hendricks (865-974-7521, shendrick@utk.edu)