George A. Ewart (‘88) and his wife, Cindy, have made their largest gift to date to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s College of Architecture and Design—naming the first space in the college’s newly renovated CoAD Exchange and setting a precedent for philanthropic leadership within the transformative project.

Their gift to the Dean’s Excellence Endowment establishes the George and Cindy Ewart Office of the Dean, the first named space within the Exchange, a designed central hub that will serve students, faculty, staff, and visitors. As the college grows enrollment and expands academic initiatives, the Exchange represents a critical investment in spaces that foster connection, mentorship, and innovation.

“George and Cindy’s generosity strengthens the foundation and future of our college,” said Dean Jason Young. “Their support allows us to strategically support students and faculty, directly enhancing the student experience and taking a vivid design education to the next level.”

The family chose specifically to give to the Dean’s Excellence Endowment as a way to empower Young to invest in design education, support faculty and staff, and provide innovative design resources for students in ways that can make an immediate impact.

For Ewart, giving back to the college that shaped his professional life is both intentional and personal.

“The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, gave me the opportunity to become a professional, and I am grateful for that,” he said. “So whatever I can do to repay them for what my career has become—that’s what I do.”

Ewart came to the UT from West Virginia in 1986 to pursue his second bachelor’s degree in the School of Architecture. His focus, however, was different from his classmates. Balancing coursework with a young family and professional responsibilities, he approached his education with purpose.

After planting roots in the city, Ewart founded George Armour Ewart, Architect, an award-winning architectural firm with projects spanning retail, health care, hospitality, office spaces, and more. He later expanded his businesses co-founding Dead End BBQ, a local restaurant with Tickle College of Engineering alumnus Robert Nutt (’87).

Throughout his career, Ewart has remained closely connected to the university by hiring alumni, offering internships to current students, and supporting future designers through scholarships and philanthropic leadership.

Beginning as a donor and eventually serving on multiple boards—including chair emeritus for the college’s Dean’s Advocacy Board, chair of the Chancellor’s Associates, and the national Alumni Board of Directors—Ewart has consistently invested in the next generation.

“I give back because I believe that’s what you’re supposed to do,” he said.

Young announced Ewarts’ gift and the George and Cindy Ewart Office of the Dean during the college’s 60th anniversary tailgate last fall, when tours of the construction site took place. As the first named space within the Exchange, the Ewarts set a precedent for leadership support and philanthropic investment in the college’s shared spaces.

“It was an honor to be extended an offer from the dean to name a space in the new Exchange,” said Ewart. “Cindy and I are grateful to be able to help students, create connections and opportunities, and support them towards graduation.”

The CoAD Exchange is anticipated to open in the upcoming summer. Individuals interested in learning more about investing in future designers through support of the Exchange are encouraged to email the college’s advancement team.