University of Tennessee Honored Matt Borden
The University of Tennessee Foundation recognized the UT Martin director for excellence in fundraising.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Philanthropy
Matt Borden, the director of annual giving at UT Martin, has been named a recipient of the 2026 President's Award. The honor recognizes his contributions to system support, alumni engagement, and fundraising.
Why it matters
The award highlights individuals who drive institutional success through innovation in philanthropy. Borden is credited with transforming annual giving strategies with a specific focus on student success.
The University of Tennessee Foundation selected 6 total recipients for the 2026 President's Award. This award is determined annually by a committee comprised of previous honorees who review nominations submitted by supervisors.
The players
Matt Borden
He serves as the director of annual giving at the University of Tennessee at Martin.
University of Tennessee Foundation
This organization manages and coordinates philanthropic support for the University of Tennessee System.
The details
Borden received the recognition for his efforts to increase philanthropic participation and alumni engagement across the UT Martin campus. He was one of six individuals chosen to receive the honor for 2026.
Timeline
Matt Borden received the University of Tennessee President's Award in 2026.
Market Landscape
This recognition follows the established tradition of the University of Tennessee President's Award, which reinforces institutional goals for staff excellence. It highlights the competitive efforts across campuses to improve philanthropic outcomes and alumni relations.
The award acknowledges the internal leadership driving initiatives that support student success through increased funding. For donors and alumni, this reflects the university's ongoing focus on institutional growth and engagement.
The takeaway
Institutional awards recognize the staff members who directly influence the success of fundraising and development programs. Recognizing these achievements helps maintain the standard of excellence for university engagement.
Further reading
For more on charitable efforts across the state, visit the Tennessee Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Thunderbolt Radio.
