Episode 2: UT President Randy Boyd on Inclusivity and Innovation

What happens when the leader of a multi-campus university system decides that success should be measured by who you let in, not who you keep out? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, Cathy Ackerman sits down with Randy Boyd, president of the University of Tennessee, to explore the bold strategic vision currently transforming the UT system. Listeners will learn about the "UT Promise"—a groundbreaking initiative offering free tuition to qualifying Tennessee students—and how the University is leveraging its partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory to become a global leader in artificial intelligence and quantum communications. Randy shares the personal "why" behind his transition from the gubernatorial trail to the president's office, driven by a desire to give back to his alma mater. The conversation dives into the "Students First" culture, the power of the "Transparent UT" initiative, and the surprising ways the university impacts all 95 counties of Tennessee. Click play to hear how the University of Tennessee is honoring its land-grant roots while building a world-class future for every Tennessean.