Tony Poteet

“To see Tony’s impact on the University of Memphis, one only has to take a quick look around campus — the results of his work are visible at almost every turn,” said University of Memphis President Shirley Raines.

Poteet was a guiding force behind construction of a building that has quickly become the hub of student life on campus, the new University Center. The UC has a 24-hour computer lab, technology hub, ballroom, restaurants and conference and lounge areas for students.

Poteet also has played an important role in the construction of West Hall, a new dormitory that will open in the fall. The building has garnered national attention for its sustainable design and “neighborhood” living-learning concept. It features office space, classrooms and living areas, along with the latest in technology.

His influence also stretches into downtown, where the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law opened to rave reviews in January. The U of M has one of the top law school facilities in the nation in the refurbished former U.S. Postal Service Customs House on the bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places. Poteet went to great lengths to ensure that the building retained its past historical significance while constructing a law school that is unsurpassed in learning and technological features.

Other projects Poteet has been involved in include the U of M’s new baseball stadium, FedExPark and the Frank Flautt Golf Center.

Poteet earned two degrees from the U of M: a bachelor of science in engineering technology in 1983 and a master’s degree in city and regional planning in 1995. In 1997, he became a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. Poteet began his professional career in 1984 as the assistant to the director of Physical Plant and Planning.

The Hammond Award (named in honor of Allen J. Hammond) is reserved for recognition of people who have rendered significant service to the University.