For the eighth consecutive year, the Fulbright Program has recognized the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, as one of the colleges and universities with the highest number of students and recent alumni selected for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. The distinction was announced on Feb. 3.
Each year, the program honors Fulbright Top Producing Institutions for valuing global connection and supporting members of their campus communities who pursue international opportunities. Ten UT students and recent alumni were selected for Fulbright U.S. student grants for the 2025-26 academic year.
“University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s recognition as a Fulbright Top Producing Institution reflects the exceptional global engagement of our students and faculty,” said Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor John Zomchick. “This distinction underscores our commitment to academic excellence and to preparing Vols to lead and serve in a connected world.”
The Fulbright Program, established in 1946, is the U.S. government’s premier international academic exchange program. Each year, it provides opportunities for exceptional Americans and participants from 160 countries and locations to study, teach and conduct research abroad, advancing knowledge, science and industry through international exchange and collaboration.
“Consistent Fulbright recognition reflects the extraordinary caliber of our scholars and the deep culture of mentorship that defines our commitment to student success,” said Amber Williams, vice provost for student success. “At UT, we don’t only prepare students for careers; we prepare them for global influence. These Volunteers are advancing research and strengthening communities — proving that the impact of a UT degree knows no borders.”
Demonstrating its ongoing commitment to global engagement, UT has supported 175 student Fulbright recipients since 1959, helping to empower future leaders and advance innovation around the world. At UT, Undergraduate Research and Fellowships helps guide undergraduate students, graduate students and alumni through the application process through advising, application essay writing workshops and interview preparation. The university submitted 38 candidates for the 2026-27 competition, and 21 of them have been named national semifinalists by Fulbright screening committees. Final award selections will be made in late spring.
“What a profound honor it is to be named a Fulbright U.S. Student Program Top Producer for the eighth year in a row,” said Meredith Malburne-Wade, director of URF. “At the heart of each Fulbright application from UT is a Volunteer who is looking to apply and share what they have learned here on campus with the global community. We couldn’t be more excited for our recipients who are impacting communities around the globe through study, research and teaching abroad via Fulbright.”
About the Fulbright Program
Fulbright is a program of the U.S. Department of State, with funding provided by the U.S. government. Participating governments and partner institutions, corporations and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support to the program.
Fulbright alumni work to make a positive impact on their communities, sectors and the world and have included 44 heads of state or government, 63 Nobel laureates, 93 Pulitzer Prize recipients, 83 MacArthur Fellows and countless leaders in all sectors and industries across the United States and around the world.
Visit the Fulbright website to learn more about the program.
To learn more about the campus application process, visit UT’s Fulbright web page.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Stacy Estep (865-974-8304, sestep3@utk.edu)