State of Tennessee facilities management initiative

The University of Tennessee system has been invited to participate in a process to identify possible opportunities to reduce costs for the operation of all state facilities including higher education. A Request for Information (RFI) issued by the State of Tennessee is an early step in this process.

While the University is participating in this review process, I understand we also have the option not to adopt particular measures identified if we determine they are not workable or don’t achieve long-term savings. As you know, more than a year ago the University initiated a review of its business model and continues to identify more effective and efficient ways of using our resources to address future funding gaps.

Our participation in the State of Tennessee’s facilities management initiative is based on representations that each of our entities has the option to use a state contract for services if doing so makes business sense. The diversity of our campuses – in their mission, geography, organization and cost structure – calls for careful consideration of their individual circumstances and any suggested alternatives.

If the RFI results in a decision by the state to issue a Request For Proposals (RFP), we will continue to offer input so that our entities are best able to evaluate potential benefits, or lack thereof, in participation. Our participation in any resulting RFP process will be open and transparent.

I’m proud of the work we began within the University more than a year ago to achieve greater effectiveness and efficiency with our resources, and we will continue these efforts toward our own long-term sustainability. We will consider potential measures of a State of Tennessee facilities management initiative on a case-by-case basis in determining whether such measures are advantageous to our campuses and their missions and goals.