The Knoxville Chamber has recognized University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Chancellor Donde Plowman with its 2026 James A. Haslam II Leadership Award, noting the momentum the university has experienced under her leadership.
The award, sponsored by Stowers CAT, is given to a long-standing business leader in East Tennessee who demonstrates exceptional character, community commitment and regional success.
“This award honors the deep relationships the university shares with our community and the positive change we can create together,” said Plowman. “No one achieves success without others, and I am fortunate to lead and work with talented individuals across our campus and the UT System. This recognition is a testament to our collective efforts and all those who support UT’s mission.”
Plowman was presented the award at the annual Pinnacle Business Awards Gala on March 5. Presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners, the gala celebrates regional business excellence, honoring outstanding professionals in nine categories for their contributions to the greater Knoxville economy. Recipients are selected by the Knoxville Chamber Board of Directors.
In an interview about the award, UT System President Randy Boyd credited recent success in enrollment, research and athletics to Plowman’s bold leadership and business acumen.
“Donde could be a great leader in any type of organization. She’s obviously succeeding in higher education, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see her as a leader in a Fortune 500 company or as a governor,” Boyd said. “She has the talents to lead in any organization, and we’re fortunate that she chose to apply her talents here at the University of Tennessee.”
Under Plowman’s tenure, the university has set new records in student retention and graduation, research, partnerships and state support. As UT’s success and national profile rise, Plowman has continued to center its land-grant mission and commitment to serving the people of Tennessee.
During her time as chancellor, the university has formed strategic partnerships that are advancing research innovation and strengthening the state’s workforce in crucial fields like education, nursing and nuclear engineering.
In the fall, the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities honored UT with its Innovation and Economic Prosperity Economic Engagement Connections Award for promoting innovation and regional development. Through her collaborative leadership approach, Plowman is helping the city of Knoxville thrive alongside the university.
About the Knoxville Chamber
The Knoxville Chamber is a nonprofit organization focused on the economic development of the City of Knoxville and Knox County. Founded in 1869, the chamber drives business growth by supporting local expansion and attracting new investment to the region. The organization has more than 2200 member businesses and fulfills its mission of driving regional economic prosperity by leveraging innovation to foster a cutting-edge economy that prepares the entire Knoxville region for the future and moves toward economic opportunity for all.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Tyra Haag (865-974-5460, [email protected])