Development News
Tennessee Tech University Foundation Board named recipient of 2025 John W. Nason Award for Board Leadership by the Association of Governing Boards
The Tennessee Tech University Foundation Board has been selected to receive the John W. Nason Award for Board Leadership by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB). AGB and its mission partner, the Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of
America (TIAA), present the Nason Award, established in 1992, to higher education governing boards
that demonstrate exceptional leadership and initiative.
“The Tennessee Tech Foundation Board has engaged in a ten-year evolution through board development, a renewed institution-foundation partnership and an unwavering commitment to the university, its students and the broader community,” said Kevin Braswell, vice president of University Advancement and executive director and secretary of the Foundation Board of Directors. “We are honored to be recognized by the Association of Governing Boards. This award is a testament to our board members whose thoughtful leadership and meaningful engagement advance the university’s mission to deliver an enduring education.”
The Foundation acts as a not-for-profit corporation helping to secure and oversee gift support for the university and provides advice and assistance to the university president on strategic issues impacting Tech’s future, among other tasks. Board directors are some of Tech’s most distinguished supporters and alumni.
Throughout the last decade, the Board has prioritized donor engagement, revamped bylaws, professionalized operations and increased diversity, including student representation. Their leadership drove record-breaking fundraising and boosted privately-funded scholarships by 83%. Community partnerships, such as the gift of Oakley Farm and investments in athletics and facilities, have enhanced the student experience and supported regional growth. Anchored by a “Students First” philosophy, the Board continues to elevate Tech as a nationally-competitive, student-centered research university.
AGB chose this year’s honorees from a diverse array of nominations illustrating the essential work of boards from four-year public and private colleges and universities, two-year institutions and institutionally related foundations. Tech’s Foundation Board is one of five institutions receiving this year’s Nason Award. Other recipients include the Metropolitan State University of Denver Board of Trustees, Northern Arizona University Foundation Board, Notre Dame of Maryland University Board of Trustees and the University of Tulsa Board of Trustees.
“Governing boards play an instrumental role in shaping the future of higher education through their vision, dedication and innovative leadership,” said Fram Virjee, AGB president and chief executive officer. “This year’s Nason Award recipients exemplify the transformative impact that boards can have, not only on their institutions but also on their broader communities. Their commitment to excellence and strategic governance inspires us all, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.”
The Nason Award is named for higher education leader John W. Nason, who served as the chair of the National Japanese American Student Relocation Council and helped more than 4,000 interned students continue their college studies across the nation during World War II. AGB is the premier organization advocating strategic board governance in higher education. TIAA is a Fortune 100 financial services organization dedicated to helping its clients pursue financial well-being.
Tennessee Tech is ranked as a “Best National University” by U.S. News & World Report. The university offers more than 225 programs of study, and Tech grads leave with the least debt of all public universities in the state. Based on total cost and alumni earnings, Tech provides students with the highest return on investment for any public university in Tennessee, according to PayScale. Find out more at www.tntech.edu.
