Hillary Tune

Hillary Tune is a distinguished scholar at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, where she is deeply engaged in the fields of librarianship, geography, and conservation. Her academic journey is marked by a profound commitment to bridging the gaps in resource understanding and access, a theme that resonates with the diverse student body at the School of Information Sciences. Inspired by the varied paths of her peers, Hillary's research interests align closely with those of students like Charlie Mix, who utilizes his geography background to focus on conservation through innovative mapping techniques. Her work is also reminiscent of Melinda Sandkam's dedication to using librarianship as a tool to support underserved populations, reflecting a shared commitment to social equity and community service. Hillary's academic pursuits are further enriched by the dynamic environment at the university, where students like Matthew Cowan transition from geology to information sciences, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of the field. This diversity of thought and experience is a hallmark of the program, fostering a rich tapestry of ideas and approaches. Her engagement with the MSIS program is driven by a desire to explore new career paths, much like Karen Beal, who is fulfilling a long-held goal through her studies. This spirit of exploration and innovation is a defining characteristic of the student body, encouraging Hillary to push the boundaries of traditional librarianship and conservation practices. In her research, Hillary draws inspiration from the pioneering efforts of students like Stephanie Walker, one of the first undergraduates in the new SIS major. Stephanie's journey reflects the evolving landscape of information sciences, where emerging technologies and methodologies are reshaping the way knowledge is accessed and utilized. Hillary's work is also informed by the diverse backgrounds and interests of her peers, such as Jesse Morris, Joshua Melendez, Holland Parkins, Adam Hembree, and Jessica Giles. Their collective focus on areas ranging from environmental science to public librarianship and data visualization underscores the multifaceted nature of information sciences, providing a rich context for Hillary's own research endeavors.