Aug. 22, 2007
Contact: Rita Mitchell , University Relations
University at juncture to strengthen assets, pursue opportunities
MARTIN, Tenn. – “We are a comprehensive, regional, public university that is perceived by our stakeholders as a place with a spirit for personal attention and passion for quality undergraduate education and rigorous graduate programs. Our graduates do well when they leave us. Our alumni are overwhelmingly staunch supporters which is shared by the UT (System) that continues to display a sincere, supportive loyalty to UT Martin.” –– Dr. Thomas Rakes, University of Tennessee at Martin chancellor.
Rakes recently opened his first fall faculty meeting since becoming the ninth UT Martin chancellor by answering the question: Who are we? His remarks, titled “Capacity-Building: A Spirit, A Vision, A Plan,” also answered the questions: Where are we headed? How do we get there?
“I believe it is in the best interests of those we serve, as well as ourselves, to remain true to who we are now, but expand upon our tradition of purpose by becoming even better, being very strategic in how we change,” he said. “We need to look ahead and envision ourselves as being among the best regional, public universities in the nation. There are things we can do over the coming years to move our programs and services to another level – not necessarily becoming that much larger in enrollment, but becoming stronger academically as we increase in overall stature among those we serve, locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.
Rakes spoke about several distinguishing programs, features and assets at UT Martin – campus safety, strength of academic majors and facilities. All were ranked as important in a recent survey by Stamats, a marketing communications company that provides strategic and creative services to colleges and universities.
“We are at a juncture in the life of the university. We can open avenues for faculty and staff to engage in partnerships and opportunities in agriculture, the arts, business, education, applied sciences and social sciences.”
The chancellor cited six core values that will continue to serve as the foundation: Excellence in teaching/learning, integrity, leadership, community, inclusiveness and creativity/innovation.
Moving forward, he added, begins by “recognizing our strengths and exploring ways to improve our performance and the value of our services.” Rakes said he supports increasing academic rigor; renewing and strengthening efforts to ensure diversity; reviewing and enhancing security initiatives; reviewing support for operations such as development and alumni relations, online studies and extended campuses. Additional priorities will include evaluating and adjusting resources to enhance academic and student services to expand research, leadership and internship opportunities; increasing research and economic development activities; completing $76 million in facilities projects and ensuring all ancillary facilities and services are well maintained or enhanced
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“This morning, I speak of plans, priorities and initiatives, most of which depend on your support, your buy-in, and gathering and aligning resources to move forward. Capacity-building is a continuous avenue to travel, and I realize our actions will speak louder than our words.
“I pledge to each of you that I have the very best interests of this campus at heart. Our employees, students, alumni and stakeholders deserve that. I expect us to enjoy many, many positive and uplifting times in the coming years. UT Martin is a special place to work and serve. We are the economic and social engine within our region. We need to plan and act accordingly to continue our successful ways.”
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