116,000-square-foot building reaches construction milestone ahead of planned fall 2027 opening.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Information Center) — The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, will name its new student success building the Compton Center for Student Success in recognition of a commitment from John and Cindy Compton.

The UT Board of Trustees approved the naming Friday, Oct. 16, as university leaders celebrated a major construction milestone known as dry-in, marking the completion of the building’s exterior shell.

The 116,000-square-foot center is scheduled to open in fall 2027. Located in the heart of campus, it will bring together academic resources, career services and targeted student support to help students succeed.

“The university is experiencing extraordinary momentum, and this new building will create important opportunities for all students across campus to thrive,” John Compton said. “Cindy and I are honored to be a part of shaping the future of the university through this building and have no doubt it will help Volunteers succeed for years to come.”

Compton added that the family’s commitment to the university will continue for generations.

“Our gift today is not one-time. We intend to be generational givers as our family name will be on the building,” he said.

John Compton graduated from UT Knoxville in 1983 and has served as chair of the UT Board of Trustees since 2018. He also serves as an executive-in-residence lecturer and a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council at the university’s Haslam College of Business.

The Comptons have supported the university for decades, contributing to academic programs, faculty, athletics and student support initiatives.

“John and Cindy Compton have been steadfast champions of the university and its students,” Chancellor Donde Plowman said. “Their leadership and insights make us better.”

Plowman said the couple’s commitment will help ensure students have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed academically and personally.

“We appreciate their investment, and their continued engagement,” she said.

The center is expected to serve as a central hub for student resources, bringing services together in one location to support Volunteers throughout their college experience.