Mark Griffin (HCB, ’89; UT M.S., ’92; ProMBA, ’03) has always been a loyal Vol. The Union City, Tennessee, native played on the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, men’s basketball team from 1985 to 1989 and earned three degrees from the university, including two from the Haslam College of Business. Griffin ranks as one of UT’s best three-point shooters, but when he learned ways he could contribute to Haslam’s Department of Marketing, he jumped at the chance to give an assist to his alma mater.

Opportunity to Serve

After discussing ways he could support UT with the university’s advancement team, Griffin was introduced to Alex Zablah, the marketing department head, Gerber/Taylor Distinguished Professor and Kinney Family Faculty Research Fellow, and Christine White, assistant professor of practice and the department’s director of partnerships and growth initiatives. Zablah and White told the alum about Haslam’s Master of Science in Marketing Program. Griffin was immediately open to helping where he could.

“I was so impressed with what I heard about Haslam and the next generation of UT graduates,” Griffin explains. “I’m from Tennessee, and seeing the progress that’s been made at this state school made me want to get involved and pay it forward.”

Griffin currently serves on the Marketing and Sales Innovation Alliance Advisory Council and collaborates with Zablah and White on ways to grow the department and the marketing master’s program, as well as ways to serve the local community.

Establishing a Lasting Legacy

The former basketball Vol was so inspired by Haslam’s marketing department that he established the first endowment for the Master of Science in Marketing program.

“I truly believe in the Haslam College of Business and particularly the marketing department, so I wanted to help make it a success,” Griffin explains. “The program’s three pillars — professional sales, digital marketing and consumer insights/brand management — help students meet specific goals and prepares them for future careers.”

Mentorship and Impact

Griffin is quick to point out that giving back extends beyond monetary donations, noting that while money helps, one can also donate time and resources. It is a philosophy he personifies. Griffin has participated in the department’s Distinguished Speaker Series, Reverse Career Fair and Rocky Top Golf Tournament.

He also dedicates time to mentoring M.S. in Marketing students. He shares lessons learned from his 25 years in pharmaceutical and medical sales leadership, as well as his time as an athlete, focusing on handling adversity, working on a team and learning continuously.

“As an athlete, you learn how to bounce back when things don’t go your way, and you learn the importance of being a team player,” Griffin explains. “Through sports and the professional world, I’ve also learned it’s crucial to continually learn from people who aren’t like me, to be open-minded and appreciate people that will open a door or provide an opportunity.”

Though he is giving back, Griffin also derives gratification through mentoring. He relishes watching his mentees grow.

“Seeing their eyes light up during that ‘aha moment’ when they take ownership and understand there is a chance to overcome an obstacle, push through or see the positive side of something is my favorite part of mentoring,” he says.

Griffin’s involvement with Haslam’s students and its Department of Marketing is deeply felt, and White expresses appreciation for his contributions.

“Mark is an incredible friend of our department,” she says. “There are many layers to his continued involvement at UT and his unwavering commitment to giving back.”

Exemplifying the Volunteer Spirit

The Volunteer Creed emphasizes subordinating oneself in service to others. Griffin agrees. For him, being a Volunteer means showing up for others and making a meaningful impact.

“You can make a difference just by spending a day with someone who’s struggling, sharing a cause you care about or bringing passion to your work,” he says.

Reflecting on his time at UT — as a student, athlete and mentor — Griffin emphasizes that true legacy is measured by how we help others, not by personal achievements.

“Some may remember me for shooting three-pointers back in the ’80s,” he says. “That’s what I did, but it’s not who I am. I want to be known as someone who cares for others, helps people find their passions and makes a difference.”

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Contact:

Leah McAmis, senior editor, leah@utk.edu