UT Southern Welcomes Dr. Melinda S. Arnold as Chancellor
University of Tennessee Board of Trustees Confirms Appointment Following Nationwide Search
PULASKI, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee Southern officially welcomes Dr. Melinda S. Arnold as Chancellor following the confirmation of her appointment by the University of Tennessee Board of Trustees during its meeting Friday.
Dr. Arnold, a seasoned higher education leader and passionate advocate for student success, was selected after a comprehensive national search and will begin her service as Chancellor on July 1, 2025. She most recently serving as Special Assistant to the President at Texas A&M University–Texarkana. There, Dr. Arnold she led strategic initiatives focused on institutional growth, academic innovation, and access for underserved student populations.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Arnold to UT Southern,” said UT System President Randy Boyd. “Her commitment to inclusive excellence, strategic vision, and demonstrated ability to lead transformational change make her the right leader to build on UT Southern’s momentum and expand its impact across the region.”
Dr. Arnold brings more than two decades of experience to the role. She has served in senior leadership positions at regional, comprehensive universities with a strong focus on supporting first-generation, rural, transfer, and adult learners. Her work has secured over $11 million in grants and $4.5 million in fundraising and partnership support to advance mission-driven outcomes.
“I look forward to Dr. Arnold becoming the Chancellor at UT Southern,” said UT Knoxville Chancellor Donde Plowman, who chaired the search committee. “Her academic training and considerable administrative experience make her just the right person for this role. I look forward to working alongside of her.”
Dr. Arnold succeeds Chancellor Linda C. Martin, who has led the institution since 2022 and will return to her leadership role within the UT System. Under Chancellor Martin’s leadership, UT Southern launched a new strategic plan, developed the ten-year master plan, enhanced student success initiatives, and strengthened regional partnerships.
The UT Southern community extends its deepest appreciation to Dr. Martin for her tireless commitment to the campus and congratulates Dr. Arnold as she prepares to lead the next chapter of UT Southern’s story.