Dr. Paul Meek was a leader at UT Martin in multiple roles from 1934 to 1967. As Executive Officer and then Chancellor, Dr. Meek led our campus through many difficult challenges and transitions, including a World War that nearly caused the institution to close permanently. However, through Dr. Meek’s leadership, the institution survived and soon began to thrive, leading to the university we know today. Our campus library is named after Dr. Meek to honor his contributions to the university.

First awarded in 1970, the Paul and Martha Meek Leadership Award was established to recognize graduating seniors that have demonstrated outstanding qualities of leadership while pursuing their education at the University of Tennessee at Martin.  The award was originally established and funded by the three Meek children to honor their parents and to honor students that embodied the same spirit of leadership shared by Dr. Meek.

Students are nominated for the award by the professional staff in Student Affairs.

Award Winners

Spring 2023

Gracie Barber

Tia Moore

Fall 2023

Daariq Burton

Emma Copley

Spring 2024

Iman Ahmed

Colby Maclin

Faith Pilkington

Fall 2024

Bionca Barnes

Lauryn Davis