Rutherford Named Director of Academic Success

Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) welcomes Executive Director of Academic Success Chesney Rutherford. In her new role, Rutherford will oversee various academic success initiatives including the Cornerstone Program, the TRIO Program, and all Tagge Center functions.

Rutherford, from LaFollette, Tennessee, brings a decade of experience. For the past ten years, she has served as the school counselor at Jacksboro Middle School, providing guidance to a student body of 540. Additionally, she directed the after-school choir program, showcasing her commitment to student development and extracurricular activities.

“I am pleased to announce Ms. Chesney Rutherford in this role,” said Assistant Vice President for Student Success Chris Stotts, EdD. “As a product of LMU, Ms. Rutherford brings with her a deep love for the University and a passion for the students it serves. This passion, combined with her experience in mental health counseling and pursued degree in higher education administration will prove to expand the level of service provided by our Office of Academic Support and assist students in reaching their highest level of academic success.” 

Rutherford's educational journey is deeply connected to LMU. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Education in both school and mental health counseling from the university. During her graduate studies, she served as the graduate assistant for the Carter and Moyers School of Education. Rutherford is currently pursuing a doctorate in education with an emphasis in higher education administration and is in the dissertation phase of her doctoral studies.

"LMU has always felt like home since my days here as an undergraduate,” Rutherford said. “The institution has greatly shaped who I am as a person and my career path. I consider it an honor to serve in this role and to be a resource to provide students at LMU a successful college experience."

Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.