Adam White

As Assistant Vice Provost for Transitions & Success, Adam White leads efforts that shape how students begin and navigate their UT experience. He oversees the Veterans Success Center, First-Year Experience & Transitions, Rocky Top Gateway, and Rocky Top Scholars, guiding programs that support successful transitions into college, strengthen belonging and engagement, and connect students to the resources and opportunities that help them thrive from their first semester through graduation. His work is grounded in the belief that a strong start creates the foundation for long-term student success.

Adam’s career in higher education has centered on helping students navigate transition points and build meaningful connections to campus. He began his professional journey at Northern Illinois University in orientation and transition programs before serving in an academic advising role in central Illinois, where he worked directly with students as they explored academic pathways and long-term goals. He later joined the University of Tennessee in New Student Orientation, helping welcome and prepare incoming Volunteers before transitioning into leadership within the First-Year Experience space.

Known for his collaborative and student-centered approach, Adam works closely with partners across the Division of Student Success and the university to create connected, high-impact experiences for students. Colleagues value his ability to bring people together around shared goals, build systems that support student transition and retention, and keep the student experience at the center of strategic decision-making.

Education: BA in communications, Northern Illinois University; MS in student affairs in higher education, Miami University (Ohio).

CliftonStrengths: Relator, Individualization, Competition, Significance, Futuristic.