Amanda Shugarts Gibson finds joy in her daily connections with people. Whether interacting with alumni of the Haslam College of Business or collaborating with colleagues, Gibson uses her well-honed skills in communication to create deeper networks and positive outcomes.

“I have a passion for building relationships,” says Gibson, who serves as director of advancement at Haslam’s Office of Advancement. “I feel fortunate that my job allows me to do that every day.”

Through handwritten notes or a chat over a cup of coffee, Gibson discovers the goals and interests of Haslam alumni and donors. By building these relationships, she learns the needs of others and how they would like to be involved in the college.

“I get to play a small part helping alumni connect to the college in a way that’s meaningful to them,” Gibson says. ““It’s an honor to work with our passionate, dedicated alumni.”

Involvement can include philanthropic efforts, guest speaking opportunities, mentoring students and other forms of engagement. One of Gibson’s favorite occasions for connection is hosting lunches between scholarship benefactors and students who received the scholarship.

“Bringing the scholarship recipient and donor together is an incredible experience,” says Gibson. “The donor and student often find a common ground and form a network. I’m fortunate to see that connection.”

Prior to joining Haslam in 2021, Gibson moved from her home state of Alabama in 2014 to work with University of Tennessee Athletics, overseeing the ticket sales team. Moving from Alabama took her away from her comfort zone, but she fell in love with Knoxville and UT. Through her work in athletics, she saw first-hand the passion of the Tennessee Vols and knew she wanted to continue to use her skills to support the university.

She continues to build meaningful connections with the college’s alumni and friends, with an eye toward the future.

“I’m excited to engage with our alumni and connect them with the college’s incredible growth and future plans,” Gibson says. “There are so many opportunities to be involved.”

Away from the office, Gibson enjoys spending time with her newlywed husband, Zack, exploring Knoxville or visiting their niece and nephew.