Kristi J. Nelms, Ed.D., Special Assistant to the Vice Chancellor
Email: knelms@utk.edu
Dr. Kristi J. Nelms is currently serving as the Special Assistant to the Vice Chancellor in the Office of Minority Student Affairs and the Black Cultural Center, having recently joined the staff in the office. Originally from Oklahoma, Dr. Nelms received her Bachelor’s degree in Math from Oklahoma State University. She received a Master’s degree in College Student Personnel and a Doctorate of Education degree in Educational Administration and Policy Studies from here at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Dr. Nelms has served in numerous professional roles at the University of Tennessee prior to her arrival at Minority Student Affairs (MSA). She is assisting with many of the administrative functions for MSA and the Black Cultural Center and is happy to be a part of the Center’s warm and welcoming environment to all students!
Throughout her many roles and various responsibilities, Dr. Nelms has always focused on students first and foremost. She believes strongly that every student has the potential to succeed at the university and that her priority should be to find ways to help each and every one. Students know that they can look to Dr. Nelms for a listening ear, a smile, support in their personal and academic worlds, and to be challenged to strive to their fullest potential. She is committed to assisting all students to be ready for the world and to celebrate the differences in all people and cultures.