Clockwise from top left: Dr. Christina Policastro, Lindsey Felix, Dr. Max Jordon, Lucy White, Michelle Prince, Julia Bursch, Dr. Jordan King, Brett Fuchs, Brittney (Holder) Burks, Dr. Brooke Epperson, Dr. Victoria Bryan
Eleven faculty and staff members from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga have been selected to participate in the UT System’s 2027 Leadership Institute, a prestigious professional development program designed to strengthen leadership skills and foster collaboration across the UT System.
The weeklong institute will take place in Chattanooga in March 2027, bringing together participants from across the UT System for collaborative learning, leadership development and opportunities to build connections with colleagues from other campuses and institutes.
The program features facilitated sessions and small- and large-group activities focused on decision-making, ethical leadership, team engagement and cross-campus collaboration.
UTC’s 11 participants represent a broad cross-section of the University, including academic affairs, research, athletics, advancement, public safety, student services and campus operations:
- Dr. Victoria Bryan, director, Walker Center for Teaching and Learning
- Brittney (Holder) Burks, senior director of advancement, College of Nursing and Honors College
- Julia Bursch, chief operating officer, UTC Research Institute
- Dr. Brooke Epperson, associate dean and UC Foundation associate professor, College of Nursing
- Lindsey Felix, assistant athletic director for academic enhancement, Athletics
- Brett Fuchs, director of emergency management, threat assessment, emergency communications and safety; public information officer, Department of Public Safety
- Dr. Max Jordon, associate professor, Department of Physical Therapy
- Dr. Jordan King, director of Innovations in Honors and professor of practice, Honors College
- Dr. Christina Policastro, assistant dean of the Graduate School and UC Foundation professor, Department of Criminal Justice
- Michelle Prince, executive director, Auxiliary Services
- Lucy White, director, Center for Wellbeing
Established in 1981, the Leadership Institute has a long history of preparing university employees for expanded leadership responsibilities. Participants are selected based on their demonstrated excellence in their current positions, commitment to professional growth and willingness to lead with purpose.
Learn more about the 2027 UT System Leadership Institute cohort.
