Dr. Lee Williams Weldon
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has named Lee Williams Weldon, Ed.D., as its next vice chancellor for advancement and executive director of the UC Foundation, effective July 16, 2026. Weldon brings more than 15 years of advancement leadership experience in higher education, campaign strategy and foundation governance, most recently serving as senior associate vice president of development for Miami University and chief development officer for the Miami University Foundation.
In her new role, Weldon will lead UTC’s Division of Advancement and oversee the UC Foundation, guiding fundraising strategy, alumni engagement and philanthropic partnerships that support the university’s strategic priorities and continued momentum.
“Lee Williams Weldon is a thoughtful, accomplished and collaborative advancement leader whose experience aligns exceptionally well with UTC’s vision,” said UTC Chancellor Lori Mann Bruce. “She understands how philanthropy can expand opportunity for students, strengthen academic excellence and deepen a university’s connection to its community. Her leadership experience in comprehensive campaigns, constituent-based fundraising and foundation governance will be instrumental as UTC continues to build on its extraordinary momentum and shape the future of our university.”
Weldon currently oversees core development functions at Miami University, including annual giving, planned giving, foundation relations and constituent and central gift officers. She leads a team of nearly 50 advancement professionals responsible for achieving annual fundraising goals between $80 million and $100 million and serves in a leadership role for Miami University’s $1 billion comprehensive campaign.
Prior to Miami University, Weldon held advancement leadership roles at the University of Alabama, where she helped lead development strategy for colleges and units responsible for approximately $200 million within the university’s $1.5 billion campaign. Her experience also includes leadership positions at the University of South Alabama and St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile, Ala.
“Lee brings the strategic mindset, campaign experience and relationship-centered leadership that will serve UTC and the UC Foundation exceptionally well in the years ahead,” said Ashlee Patten, chair of the UC Foundation Board of Trustees. “She has a strong understanding of the partnership between a university and its foundation, and she recognizes the transformative role philanthropy plays in supporting students, faculty and the broader community. We are excited to welcome her to Chattanooga.”
Weldon earned a Doctor of Education in higher education administration from the University of Alabama, a Master of Arts in history from the University of South Alabama and a Bachelor of Arts in international relations and Spanish from Samford University.
When applying for the position, Weldon described UTC as “exactly the kind of institution I have dedicated my career to supporting,” citing the university’s commitment to enriching and sustaining the community.
“The opportunity to join UTC at this moment is incredibly meaningful to me,” Weldon said. “UTC’s commitment to student success, community engagement and regional impact deeply resonates with both my professional experience and personal values. I am honored to join Chancellor Bruce, the UC Foundation Board and the talented advancement team to help strengthen philanthropic partnerships and support the university’s bold vision for the future.”
As executive director of the UC Foundation, Weldon will work closely with the foundation’s board of trustees and university leadership to support UTC’s fundraising priorities, strategic initiatives and long-term growth.
Weldon joins UTC following three record-breaking fundraising years. She will lead an advancement team that has built strong momentum through philanthropic support, alumni engagement and community partnership.
