Tennessee Senate Bill SJR0113

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/25
• Engrossed: 3/13/25
• Enrolled: 4/23/25
• Passed: 4/30/25

Caption

A RESOLUTION to confirm the appointment of Rick Spell to the advisory board for the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.

Impact

The appointment of Rick Spell to this board is significant given his background and experience. As the president of the Memphis Athletic Foundation and a member of a committee focused on raising funds for the University of Memphis, Spell brings valuable insights into both university governance and financial strategy. Such appointments are crucial for enhancing the effectiveness and oversight of the health science programs offered by the University of Tennessee.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 113 (SJR0113) serves to confirm the appointment of Rick Spell to the advisory board for the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. This resolution is a procedural necessity as the Tennessee Code Annotated mandates that the General Assembly must approve appointments made by the Governor to this advisory board. The resolution reflects the state's commitment to having qualified individuals serve on advisory committees that influence health education and research.

Contention

While SJR0113 appears straightforward, appointments to advisory boards can sometimes be met with scrutiny. Stakeholders may question the qualifications of appointees or express concerns about potential conflicts of interest. In this instance, discussions might focus on how Spell's professional experiences and affiliations align with the mission of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and whether they add value to its strategic goals.