For Professor Thura Mack (’86), the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is more than a workplace; it is the foundation of a 45-year journey defined by growth, service, and a deep commitment to students.
An alumna of the School of Information Sciences, Mack’s path to UT began with a simple recommendation that would shape the course of her life.
“My high school counselor suggested that I attend undergraduate school in Tennessee,” Mack said. “I was especially excited to have friends attending as well, which made the transition easier as a first-generation college student.”
Her interest in libraries began even earlier, sparked by an influential experience during high school.
“I worked at a public library and had the most remarkable mentor,” she said. “She introduced me to the library and information science discipline and inspired me to pursue a career as a librarian.”
Mack credits her time in the School of Information Sciences with providing her with the academic foundation and professional direction that guided her career.
“The program solidified my passion for librarianship,” she said. “The specialized courses helped me understand different types of libraries and how community engagement varies across them.”
That perspective proved instrumental as she began to envision a future in academic librarianship—one that would ultimately unfold at UT.
A Career That Grew with the Field
Over four and a half decades, Mack’s career has mirrored the evolution of libraries themselves.
She began as a student worker before transitioning into a staff role, later earning her master’s degree and becoming a reference librarian. From there, she advanced into leadership positions, including library training coordinator, head of community learning and engagement, and most recently, assistant dean.
“My career progression has closely followed changes and emerging trends in the field,” Mack said. “Each role reflects broader shifts in library services and the evolving expectations of our campus community.”
Alongside her administrative work, Mack also built a distinguished academic career, progressing from assistant instructor to full professor.
Throughout her time at UT, Mack has reached numerous milestones, each reflecting her impact on the university community.
Among the most notable was being named the first librarian to serve as Macebearer for the university, which is UT’s highest faculty honor and is awarded annually to a senior faculty member for distinguished service, teaching, and research.
More recently she served as keynote speaker for the 2026 Teaching and Learning Innovation (TLI) Faculty Appreciation Week, which was an opportunity to reflect on her journey and long-standing connection to the School of Information Sciences, including her service on the alumni advisory board.
Yet for Mack, some of the most meaningful moments have come in the classroom.
“Teaching First-Year Studies was foundational for me,” she said. “Those one-on-one interactions allowed me to help students develop critical thinking and curiosity.”
Her contributions have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Excellence in Academic Outreach Award (2025), the Hardy Liston Jr. Symbol of Hope Award (2024), and the Advisor of the Year Award from the National Society of Black Engineers (2023), among others.
A Commitment to Students and Mentorship
As assistant dean of community learning and engagement, Mack’s impact is perhaps most visible in her work with students.
“I am most proud of the mentorship I provide our library student workers,” she said. “It is incredibly rewarding to introduce them to the field and watch their projects come to life.”
She is especially passionate about creating opportunities for students from diverse academic backgrounds and encouraging them to see their own potential.
“I want to show them that they can dream big and take pride in their achievements,” Mack said. “You should never apologize for the rewards of your hard work or the scale of your ambitions.”
Her work with student organizations, particularly the National Society of Black Engineers, has further strengthened her commitment to mentorship and community building.
“They are well organized and incredibly successful,” she said. “What stands out most is how alumni continue to support current students through mentorship and career connections.”
Over the years, Mack has witnessed significant changes in the student experience that continue to inspire her.
“Today’s students are using emerging technology to solve world-scale problems,” she said. “They are more career-ready, more confident, and more intentional about their goals.”
She notes that students today bring higher expectations and a willingness to advocate for themselves, pushing faculty and staff to continually adapt.
“Their needs are different, and that challenges me to be more creative in designing meaningful educational experiences,” she said.
Mack’s dedication to her work has been fueled by a commitment to scholarship and professional engagement.
“The opportunity to publish, present, and connect with colleagues across the country has kept me motivated,” she said. “I truly enjoy representing the University Libraries in these academic spaces.”
These experiences have allowed her to contribute to the broader field while continuing to grow as a scholar and educator.
Looking Ahead and Leaving a Legacy
As she reflects on 45 years at UT, Mack hopes her legacy will be defined not just by her accomplishments, but by the impact she has had on others.
“I want my legacy to be more than just projects,” she said. “I hope it reflects contributions to the community, to the university, and to the libraries, while inspiring innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity.”
For current students and young professionals, her advice is rooted in adaptability and lifelong learning.
“Be prepared for change and keep an open mind,” she said. “The world is always evolving, and those changes will shape your career.”
A Milestone Rooted in Gratitude
For Mack, this 45-year milestone is not just a personal achievement; it reflects the community that supported her along the way.
“My journey has been shaped by people who believed in me and saw my potential,” she said. “Journeys that sustain us are not the work of one, but the work of many.”
Grounded in her faith, her family, and the relationships she has built over decades, Mack’s career stands as a testament to the power of mentorship, perseverance, and purpose.
And after 45 years, her impact continues to be felt across UT and beyond.