The University of Tennessee has been a place of learning, tradition and growth for generations.
For Superintendent Austin Atchley and Assistant Superintendent Brayam Cabrera, it represents something even greater, a foundation for their careers and the place where their professional achievements first took shape.
What began in the classroom as lectures and assignments came full circle. Today, these alumni have returned to the University of Tennessee not as students, but as builders, shaping the future of the campus that shaped them and leaving a lasting mark on the community.
Both Austin and Brayam have contributed significantly to the Neyland Stadium renovation, a project that blends tradition with progress.
For them, this project is more than construction. It’s a point of pride and a chance to give back to the institution that launched their journeys and a newfound connection to the students.
“I feel the biggest sense of pride that just a few short years ago we were in their shoes and now here we are getting to work on this awesome project,” Austin said.
Brayam agrees, reflecting on the significance of applying classroom lessons where they were taught.
“We’re putting all of the stuff we learned through the books into real world practices right where it all began back on campus,” he says. “It’s a full circle moment.”
Neyland Stadium is more than just a football venue. It’s a gathering space and symbol of tradition for thousands of fans. Austin finds meaning in sharing that progress with loved ones who, like most in the community, are lifelong Volunteers fans.
“My family, we are all UT fans. I got the opportunity to walk some of my family through and share that with them, and they really enjoyed that,” he says. “It is a space that everyone recognizes and loves to talk about.”
For Brayam, seeing the transformation in the stadium has been especially rewarding. Sitting in the stands during the 2025 football season as a fan and seeing the improvements in action serves as a reminder of how far he has come.
What were once tight corridors and bottleneck areas are now expanded, more open and functional for everyone.
“Just to think about the amount of work that’s been done over the past couple of years. It’s a unique place to be,” he says.
Austin and Brayam’s journeys embody the pride that comes with returning to their alma mater, honoring their roots and contributing to the future of the University of Tennessee.
These two alumni had the opportunity to bring their skills back to where their story began, and what they have built at their alma mater will be felt for years to come with an elevated football experience, inspired students, and a campus prepared for the future.
As Neyland Stadium welcomes the seasons ahead, their work will live on every game day.
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