Pulaski, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee Southern proudly celebrates Lydia Ball, Assistant Director of Stewardship & Donor Relations, as a 2025 recipient of the UT Foundation President’s Award—one of the highest honors bestowed upon advancement professionals across the University of Tennessee System.
Announced during a live presentation yesterday, the award recognizes excellence in advancement, innovation, and leadership. Ball was selected for her outstanding commitment to stewardship and her visionary approach to donor engagement and cross-campus collaboration.
“Lydia brings heart, strategy, and a spirit of service to everything she does,” said Dr. Melinda Arnold, Chancellor of UT Southern. “Her leadership has deepened relationships with alumni and donors, fostered alignment across departments, and elevated our institutional advancement efforts. She embodies the best of UT Southern and the UT Foundation.”
Ball has played a transformative role at UT Southern, most notably through the launch of the university’s first Gratitude Day, the implementation of a comprehensive stewardship plan, and her work to streamline processes by partnering with UT Foundation Central Services and other campuses. Widely respected for her ability to bridge advancement, academics, and athletics, Ball has become a trusted resource and an invaluable colleague.
Presented annually, the UT Foundation President’s Award honors up to six advancement professionals systemwide who exemplify the Foundation’s core values and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to excellence, collaboration, and personal and professional growth.
The full list of 2025 honorees and a video of the live announcement is available at utfi.org/2025presidentsaward.