Amy Cathey, associate dean for graduate and executive education and distinguished lecturer in the Haslam College of Business, has agreed to serve as interim vice provost and dean of the Graduate School. 

In her current role, Cathey oversees the strategic direction and implementation of the college’s growing portfolio of graduate and executive education programs, including MBA and executive MBA programs, specialty master’s programs, and non-degree executive education courses. As a distinguished lecturer, Cathey teaches marketing in several executive degree and non-degree programs. She has served as an advisor for over 100 executive MBA organizational action projects and is the recipient of several outstanding teaching awards.

With a background in higher education administration and a passion for talent development, Cathey has been instrumental in expanding the reach and impact of Haslam College of Business graduate and executive education initiatives. Under her leadership, the college has introduced new programs tailored to the demands of today’s business environment, including specialized master’s degrees and executive education courses that blend academic rigor with practical application.

Cathey is also actively involved in her community. She has served as a past board chair for the McNabb Center, McNabb Foundation, Leadership Knoxville, and the East Tennessee Foundation. She is a graduate of Leadership Knoxville and Leadership Tennessee.

She holds a doctorate in marketing, a master of business administration in marketing, and a bachelor’s degree in political science and economics, all from UT.

Cathey will be working with Vice Provost and Dean Dixie Thompson on the transition prior to Thompson’s last day in the office on January 10. Her interim role will begin on January 13 and continue through June as the national search for the position continues.