Latest News
News & Notices
With more than 600 team members, 10 units, and countless ideas for innovation and improvement, there’s always something to share from Facilities Services. Whether we’re sharing a behind-the-scenes look at upcoming construction or campus closures as a result of infrastructure improvements, you’ll find all of our news and notices here.
EVERY PERSON & PROJECT HAS A STORY
As the flagship campus for the University of Tennessee, our campus is more than just a collection of buildings and pathways – it’s a vibrant landscape that tells a story rich in history, tradition, and innovation. From the iconic, time-honored halls that have witnessed countless milestones, to the green spaces where students and staff gather, every corner of our campus is steeped in meaning. Our Facilities Services team plays a vital role in maintaining this environment, ensuring that every aspect of the campus runs smoothly and efficiently.
The dedication and hard work of our Facilities Services staff often go unnoticed by those outside their departments, yet they are the unsung heroes who keep the heart of the campus beating. These employees work behind the scenes to create safe, welcoming, and functional spaces for learning, collaboration, and community. Whether it’s responding to an urgent request, performing routine maintenance, or enhancing the campus environment with innovative solutions, the Facilities Services team approaches each task with dedication and a deep sense of pride.
It’s a privilege to share the stories of how these talented individuals work together every day to serve our campus community. Through their efforts, they exemplify the Volunteer Spirit that defines the University of Tennessee. Their work is not just about physical spaces; it’s about creating an environment where history continues to be made, and where each person who steps onto our campus can feel inspired, supported, and valued.
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Innovative Stormwater Solutions: Improving Campus Life at UT Knoxville
Story by: Ella Kelley, FS Communications Student Assistant Proactive Stewardship & Sustainable Solutions The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has experienced significant growth and change over the past 25 years. With more students comes a need for more parking and more academic buildings, but new construction can have an incredible impact on stormwater management and the…
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Facilities Services Completes Another Successful Steam Outage
Story by Ella Kelley, FS Communications Student Assistant Every year, Facilities Services conducts a campus-wide steam outage to allow for repairs and maintenance to steam lines, vaults, and various facilities. This year, the outage took place from May 31st to June 6th. The outage is generally around a week long, though this year’s outage is…
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11th Street Pedestrian Bridge Closure
The pedestrian bridge at the 11th Street Garage has been temporarily closed out of an abundance of caution due to structural concerns identified during ongoing repair work. The university is actively working with the general contractor and design firm to assess the situation. A comprehensive structural analysis is scheduled for the week of June 9…
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In-House Summer Construction 2025
This summer, the In-House Construction team will be undertaking a wide range of renovation and improvement projects across campus. These efforts are part of an ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing the functionality, safety, and appearance of university facilities. From classroom updates and office renovations to major interior painting and specialized lab modifications, the team…
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Work Order Management Team Adds Layer of Customer Support
First Line of Defense When campus customers need to report a facilities issue, their first line of defense is the Facilities Services One Call number where they’re greeted by a friendly and helpful member of the Work Order Management team. This customer service team has not always been a function of Facilities Services, but it’s…
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Michael Howze Earns Doctorate, Brings New Vision to Facilities Services
On Saturday, April 26, Michael Howze, our very own Director of Administration and Finance for Facilities Services, crossed the stage at Point Park University to receive his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership and Administration. This milestone represents far more than the completion of a degree—it’s the culmination of a powerful and deeply personal journey.…
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ANRB Receives American Institute of Architecture Award
AIA Honor for ANRB BarberMcMurry and Lord Aeck Sargent recently notified UT Facilities Services that the Agriculture and Natural Resources Building (ANRB) on the UT Institute of Agriculture campus has received a design award from the Georgia chapter of the American Institute of Architecture. Features of the Facility The ANRB is a four-story living research…
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Facilities Services Partners with VolShop on “We Rock” Collaboration
The Concept When you think of UT merchandise, most garments are inspired by our university’s proud athletic traditions. But we’re about more than just sports — we’re an everything school! That’s why we created new options for those who want to show their Volunteer pride in a way that celebrates the full spirit, history, and…
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In-House Construction Prepares for Summer 2025 Classroom Upgrades
Beginning May 16, our team of skilled professionals will start laying the ground work for improvements in 25 classrooms across campus. These classrooms, spread across Art + Architecture, Bailey Education, the Baker School, Brehm Animal Science, Dougherty Engineering, Food Science, Humanities & Social Sciences, Taylor Law, and Veterinary Medical Center. Below is a description of…
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UT Takes Second Place in ISSA Spotless Spaces Contest
As part of International Cleaning Week, the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) recently held a contest to determine the best of Spotless Spaces across the country. The Student Union Building Services crew made it to the final round of nominees, and thanks to the help of our campus and community partners, we’re thrilled to announce that we…
It Takes a Volunteer
More than 600 individuals make up Facilities Services, working tirelessly to keep the campus running 365 days a year.”