Stevie Shumate’s tenure in the Haslam College of Business developed hand in hand with the degree she received from the University of Tennessee and her lifelong love of hospitality.

“My desire to serve others dates back to many childhood family get-togethers, birthday parties and other functions,” Shumate says. “I was always eager to contribute to the behind-the-scenes shuffle that helped bring an event to life.”

Shumate’s first role at the university began in 2009 while she was still a student pursuing her degree in hospitality management at UT. She started as a customer assistant in the then Center for Executive Education, which quickly progressed to program coordinator intern. After graduating in 2013, Shumate joined Haslam full time as the coordinator for operations excellence programs. Today she coordinates the Aerospace and Defense MBA and its corresponding short business courses, both on and off-site, internationally and domestically.

“I truly enjoy working for this program because I have opportunities to show students from all over the world what southern hospitality and the Volunteer spirit is all about,” Shumate says. “I strive to make our students feel like Knoxville is a ‘home away from home.’”

Shumate’s attitude and desire to help has served the college and its students well during her six years at Haslam. “I’ve experienced a tremendous journey working in this dynamic, academic environment,” she says.

Outside of work, Shumate continues to indulge her curiosity in the hospitality and tourism industries, exploring new restaurants and businesses of downtown Knoxville and cooking for her family and friends. She also enjoys hiking and signing and keeping up with her her four-year-old cat, Gramps.