Faculty and Staff Members Named to Knox News ‘40 Under 40’

One faculty member and two staff members from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, have been named to the Knox News 40 Under 40 class of 2024.

Gilbert

Dustin Gilbert is an associate professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the Tickle College of Engineering. His research focuses on nanotechnology, with an emphasis on magnetism and spin phenomena. Currently Gilbert and his students are researching nanoscale magnetic whirls, which have the potential to impact computing technologies and energy applications. His lab is also working on ultra-low density materials for defense and national security applications. The lab is able to excel by leveraging the unique capabilities of neutron scattering and synchrotron X-rays.

"This is a huge honor. In academics, research and teaching excellence are at the top of our list, but outside of our specific research field and our students, very few people have the ability to observe these efforts or their successes. This is particularly true for young and early career faculty," Gilbert said. "On top of this, Knoxville has had such significant growth in recent years, and there are more people under 40 doing amazing things locally than ever before. It makes this award even more flattering and encourages me to do the best that I can for my students, community and family."

Hilliard

Marcus Hilliard serves as senior associate athletics director and chief of staff for Tennessee Athletics. He oversees human resources and name, image and likeness licensing efforts, working closely with Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Danny White on strategic planning and other special projects. Hilliard is the sport administrator for UT's track and field and cross country/distance programs and serves on the Tennessee Athletics executive leadership team.

"I'm truly honored to be named to the Knox News 40 Under 40 list. This acknowledgment is not about me, as I work with an incredible team and community of people here at UT who inspire me every day. We are truly blessed to receive this honor alongside 39 other fantastic honorees and look forward to celebrating with everyone," Hilliard said.

Lane

Reggie Lane is director of player engagement for football, overseeing day-to-day programming to prepare student-athletes for personal, academic and athletic success. In addition, he organizes the team's community engagement efforts. Lane launched and spearheaded the eVOLve initiative, through which student-athletes perform acts of community service and learn key life skills such as financial literacy.

"Being named to the Knox News 40 Under 40 is both humbling and inspiring. This recognition reflects the important work being done in our community, East Tennessee and the University of Tennessee. Thank you to those who have supported and inspired me along the way. I'm excited to join this amazing group of innovators and changemakers who are shaping a brighter future," Lane said.

The annual Knox News 40 Under 40 list honors the career accomplishments and community service efforts of outstanding young professionals living and working across East Tennessee.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Stacy Estep (865-974-8304, [email protected])

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