Meet the Assistant Vice Chancellor of Facilities

In this role, Jeffres provides executive leadership for all full-time, part-time, and temporary employees within the department, overseeing the day-to-day planning, organization, and direction of the various crafts and operational areas across facilities administration. He reports directly to Raaj Kurapati, Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer.

“I am honored to serve the university in this expanded capacity,” Jeffres said. “Facilities operations are central to supporting UTHSC’s mission, and I am committed to ensuring we continue to build and maintain state-of-the-art infrastructure that provides the best environment for our students, faculty, staff, and community partners. I look forward to fostering deeper collaboration across campus as we work together to maximize resources and advance the university’s vision.”

Jeffres’ responsibilities include developing policies and procedures, establishing operational schedules, setting departmental priorities, and providing direct leadership to staff. He also manages budget planning and resource allocation, oversees the maintenance, repair, and modernization of campus buildings and grounds, and ensures the optimal performance of personnel and systems across the institution. In addition, he plays a pivotal role in leading capital improvements across the campus, actively engaging stakeholders and working closely with the UT System Office in Knoxville to help shape and guide the narrative for future facility enhancements and infrastructure growth.

“With more than 25 years of industry and leadership experience, Edwin brings a forward-thinking approach and proven operational expertise to this role,” campus leadership said. “His ability to strategically guide facilities operations will play a vital part in advancing UTHSC’s growth and supporting its long-term success.”

A native of Franklin, Virginia, Jeffres joined UTHSC in 2015 as superintendent of Custodial Services and was later promoted to interim director of operations in 2019. Before joining UTHSC, he served for 18 years as owner and CEO of Jeffres Building Systems, a commercial construction firm specializing in structural steel and pre-fabricated building systems for government, corporate, and private clients.

Jeffres holds an associate degree in business management from Southwest Tennessee Community College and a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a concentration in construction management, from the University of Memphis. In 2019, he graduated from the Institute for Facilities Management. He is also a member of APPA: Leadership in Educational Facilities and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.