A Legacy of Generosity and Leadership
In 2006, Mrs. Haslam, alongside her husband Jim Haslam and the Haslam Family Foundation, made a transformative $32.5 million gift to the University of Tennessee. Of this, $10 million was designated specifically for the School of Music. This generous contribution facilitated the construction of the state-of-the-art Natalie L. Haslam Music Center, which opened its doors in 2013. The center serves as a hub for musical excellence, housing rehearsal spaces, performance venues, and educational facilities that support a diverse range of musical disciplines.
In recognition of her enduring commitment to the university and the arts, the University of Tennessee Board of Trustees approved the naming of the College of Music in her honor in June 2024. This designation acknowledges Mrs. Haslam’s pivotal role in elevating the institution’s prominence in the arts and her vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking music community.
I am not a musician, but music has always meant a lot to me. If we are lucky, music is a part of our lives at almost every turn – from the church services and weddings we attend, to football, basketball and other sports functions, and even to the parties, movies, plays and social activities in our lives. There’s always music. At the University of Tennessee, we are blessed to have an amazing music program, and Jim and I appreciate that very much. I’m honored to have my name associated with it.
Natalie L. Haslam
Namesake of College
A Champion of the Arts and Community
Beyond her contributions to the university, Mrs. Haslam has been an active leader in numerous cultural and civic organizations. She served as the first female president of the Knoxville Symphony Society and held presidencies with the East Tennessee Foundation, the East Tennessee Historical Society, the Knoxville Garden Club, and the Arts Council for Greater Knoxville. Her involvement extended to founding the nonprofit Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and serving on various boards, including the Tennessee Arts Commission and Zoo Knoxville.
Continuing Impact and Vision
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music stands as a testament to Mrs. Haslam’s vision, offering students a comprehensive education that bridges tradition and innovation. With a varied curriculum encompassing performance, education, composition, and music technology, the college prepares its graduates to thrive in the evolving landscape of the music industry.
Through initiatives like the Natalie L. Haslam Distinguished Artist/Lecturer Residency Series, the college brings world-class artists and scholars to campus, fostering collaboration and enriching the academic experience.
Mrs. Haslam’s enduring support ensures that the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music remains a beacon of excellence, creativity, and community engagement, continuing to shape the future of music education in Tennessee and beyond.
