Dr. Robert Dooley has been appointed interim chancellor of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Dooley, who will assume the role Jan. 1, is a longtime leader at UTC and an alumnus of the university.
Dooley earned a Bachelor of Arts in religion and philosophy and an MBA in finance from UTC. He holds a doctoral degree in business administration from UT Knoxville.
Dooley has served as dean of the UTC College of Business since 2011, following his tenure as associate dean for graduate programs and research at Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business.
“Dr. Dooley’s exceptional leadership and his deep understanding of UTC’s culture make him an outstanding choice to guide the university during this transition,” University of Tennessee System President Randy Boyd says. “His proven success in developing a nationally recognized college of business and strong relationships within the community will help maintain momentum as we look toward the future.”
The UT board of trustees plans to launch a national search for the next permanent chancellor in January. UT Martin Chancellor Yancy Freeman will lead the search committee.
The university expects to select a search firm by the end of the year, with finalist interviews planned on campus in spring 2025.
Dooey says he’s honored to serve during this transition period for the campus.
“It’s been a privilege to work with Chancellor (Steve) Angle and I’m proud to have been a part of what he accomplished during his time at UTC. I look forward to the opportunity to continue that great work and build on the momentum we’ve gained.”