The Center for Student Advocacy is dedicated to providing holistic student support that empowers all students at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Through dedicated guidance and advocacy, we aim to cultivate a welcoming and thriving campus community where every student feels seen and heard. By empowering Student Government leaders to be strong peer advocates, equipping families to be strong supporters of students, and offering unwavering institutional support, we believe that students will find success and fulfillment in their overall college experience.

Our core values are the foundation of our work and guide our efforts to support and advocate for students.

Empowerment: We believe in empowering students to take charge of their college experience. By providing the tools, resources, and support they need, we help students become strong self-advocates and leaders within the campus community.

Inclusivity: We strive to create an inclusive environment where all students, regardless of background or identity, feel welcome and supported. We are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work.

Collaboration: We recognize that collaboration is essential to achieving our mission. We work closely with students, families, university departments, and community partners to address concerns and provide comprehensive support.

Advocacy: We are dedicated to advocating for students’ needs and ensuring their voices are heard. We actively engage with university leadership and other stakeholders to address issues and create positive change.

Support: We provide unwavering support to students, offering guidance and resources to help them navigate the challenges of college life. Our programs and services are designed to support students’ overall well-being and success.

The purpose of the Center for Student Advocacy is to connect with students, address their concerns, and provide the resources they need to navigate college life successfully. We aim to ensure that student voices are heard, and their needs are met, both within the university community and beyond. Our key programs and initiatives include:

Tennessee Family Experience

The Tennessee Family Experience equips families with the knowledge and resources they need to support their students throughout their college journey. We provide information, workshops, and events to help families stay engaged and connected.

Student Governance Advising

We work closely with student governance organizations, primarily the Student Government Association, to empower student leaders to be strong advocates for their peers. Through mentorship and guidance, we help student government leaders develop the skills they need to represent and support their fellow students effectively.

Advocacy and Support

The Center for Student Advocacy provides comprehensive support to students and their families, along with educational programs and community-building initiatives. By fostering a culture of advocacy and support, we empower all members of the campus community to become strong student advocates. Our efforts include workshops, training sessions, and outreach programs designed to educate and engage students, families, and staff in advocacy practices that promote student well-being and success.

Rocky Top Roundtable

This initiative brings together student leaders, university administrators, and other stakeholders to discuss important issues and collaborate on solutions. The roundtable provides a platform for open dialogue and fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.

In all our efforts, the Center for Student Advocacy is committed to helping students find success and fulfillment in their overall college experience. We believe that by empowering students, supporting families, and advocating for student needs, we can create a vibrant and supportive campus community where every student can thrive.