About CECS
The College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies (CECS) is a first-of-it’s-kind college revolutionizing the future of higher education by serving as a hub for campus collaboration to develop cross-cutting, innovating curriculum and provide ALL learners at the University of Tennessee with access to emerging technologies.
Founded in July 2023, CECS is dedicated to equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in career of the future while revolutionizing the landscape of higher education.
Campus Leadership
CECS works closely with campus leadership, including University of Tennessee System President Randy Boyd, University of Tennessee Chancellor Donde Plowman, and Provost John Zomchick to ensure CECS supports the strategic goals and vision of both the university and the state of Tennessee. We are grateful for their partnership and unwavering support, and for their time spent joining us at events such as our annual Campus Catalyst and Career Catalyst events.
Cross-Campus Collaboration
CECS serves every college on campus, along with every faculty member and student, acting as a hub for collaboration. CECS welcomes new, innovative ideas, and is proud to have more than 100 faculty members representing every UTK college serving on curriculum committees.
Career Catalyst
Career Catalyst is a dynamic annual event that connects leaders from corporations, small businesses, start-ups, government agencies, and higher education to envision collaborative initiatives to create a high performing and talented workforce for emerging and future careers.
CECS Board of Visitors
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Ramon Padilla, Jr.
Vice Chancellor for Information Technology and Digital Innovation, University of Tennessee System
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The College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies will be the home of an innovation lab featuring AR/VR headsets, quadrupeds and more. Renovations are underway. The lab is expected to open to students in Spring 2025.
Our People
CECS Staff and Faculty are dedicated to being on the forefront of changing higher education and helping students prepare for the workforce of the future.
Careers
The CECS team is dynamic, innovative, and forward-thinking. If you’re interested in joining our team, please see our latest job postings.