MMDC NEWS
Anchor Institution Highights: University of Tennesse Health Science Center
August 3, 2026

True anchor leadership is about far more than basic institutional support—it’s about taking shared ownership in the spaces we all call home. For the next story in our countdown, we are proud to feature the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) and its Chancellor, Dr. Peter Buckley.

When asked about UTHSC's deep-rooted commitment to the Medical District, Dr. Buckley framed the decision with clarity: supporting MMDC is simply the right thing to do for Memphis, for their mission, and for their students, faculty, and staff.

"Supporting MMDC is simply the right thing to do for Memphis, for our mission, and for our students, faculty, and staff."— Dr. Peter Buckley, Chancellor, UTHSC

Check out the video to hear Dr. Buckley’s full reflections on why investing in the Medical District elevates everyone who lives, works, and learns here:

A Shared Commitment to the Community

For UTHSC, that commitment is both institutional and deeply personal.

If you ever spend time out in the neighborhood, you might just spot Dr. Buckley enjoying Medical District Park. A genuine fan of the space, he views it as what it truly is—a vital green space where the campus community, healthcare workers, and local neighbors can come together.

When institutions invest in public spaces and neighborhood vitality, the impact ripple effect goes far beyond campus borders.

Stay tuned as we continue counting down 10 years of impact with 10 stories from the heart of the Medical District. Follow along with #CountToTen on our social channels!

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