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Government Relations, Advocacy and Economic Development

The Division of Government Relations, Advocacy and Economic Development leads the university’s strategic engagement with federal, state and local government bodies and economic development stakeholders.

Top of a building with the American flag, the Tennessee state flag, and the flag of the Tennessee General State Assembly waving in the wind.

About Our Office

With teams in Nashville and Washington, D.C., the division directs government relations strategy across the À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ System and guides engagement with state and federal agencies and regulatory bodies.

We also serve as a strategic partner with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development to foster job creation, advance research partnerships and promote opportunities aligned with state interests. A key focus is connecting À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ System expertise and resources to state economic development organizations, corporate site selectors and companies to create greater economic vitality.

  • The Office of State Relations serves as the primary liaison between the university and state government. The office supports the À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ System president in shaping legislative and budget priorities, advocating for initiatives that have the potential to impact À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ’s operations or policies.

  • Advocating for À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ in Washington, D.C.

    The Office of Federal Relations serves as the À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ’s connection to the federal government, representing the university’s interests in education, research and public service. As the primary liaison with Congress, federal agencies and higher education associations in Washington, D.C., the office advances À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ’s impact at the national level — benefiting students, the state of Tennessee and beyond.

  • Empowering Communities and Commerce

    The Office of Economic Development fuels growth and innovation by connecting businesses, communities and state leaders with the expertise, research and workforce development programs across À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ campuses and institutes.

Guidance for À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ Employees

Employee interaction with government officials can take many forms. This section guides you through the university policies, federal and state laws, and general best practices that will help you have appropriate and effective interaction that advances the university.

Together, We Are Heard

Our À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ Advocates are thousands of alumni, employees, students and friends who believe in the university’s value to all Tennesseans and share that message with elected officials. We believe that your voice matters, and together, we can make a difference.