Academics

Campaign For Academic Excellence

The Thornton Athletics Student Life Center is dedicated in honor of John "Thunder" Thornton, his wife, Eileen, and their family, in recognition of the commitment they made to the establishment of this building.

Their family's generous gift has funded construction of one of the most significant buildings in the University of Tennessee athletic complex.

His gift to the Thornton Athletics Student Life Center project, an academic home for University of Tennessee student-athletes, reflects his belief that success starts with academics.

"The University of Tennessee has to do its best to provide the atmosphere and academic assistance to the young men and women who come to school here and participate in athletics," he has said.

A Blount County native, Thornton has built an impressive resume of business success and community service.

A member of UT's Board of Trustees, Thornton and his family have served the University well over the years and his legacy will be reflected in the lives of each of the young student-athletes served within these walls.

Dr. Ruth Darling
Associate Provost and Director of the Thornton Center

How We Reach Our Goal

Thornton Center Photo Gallery

Campaign For Academic Excellence

The CHAMPS/ Lifeskills Program

"As loud as we cheer for Big Orange touchdowns and three-point baskets, we need to have a constant chant for academic ncouragement .. Few of our student-athletes will benefit from large professional contract; all of them will benefit from the educational opportunites offered by the new Athletic Student Life Center."

-- John Thornton
Principal Benefactor/Building Namesake

Our Mission:

The University of Tennessee and its Athletics Departments are fully committed to the academic success of each student-athlete. The mission of the Thornton Center and its staff is to provide the academic support, the educational programs and the learning environment in which all student-athletes have the opportunity to achieve their academic and personal goals and to encourage the student-athletes' participation in the many enriching opportunities available at the University and in the surrounding community.

University of Tennessee Athletics

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