KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – University of Tennessee President Joe DiPietro has hired former Volunteers football coach Phillip Fulmer as his special adviser for community, athletics and university relations.

DiPietro announced the hiring Tuesday.

Fulmer had been a candidate for the athletic director job given to John Currie in March . As special adviser, Fulmer will be an ambassador for the Tennessee system statewide, support athletic programs at campuses in Knoxville, Chattanooga and Martin, and lobby for the university system with both elected officials and alumni.

"Phillip has been a tremendous asset to the University of Tennessee both on and off the field for more than 40 years," DiPietro said in a statement. "I have enjoyed the opportunity to work with him on the UT President's Council, and I look forward to working with him in a broader sense to advocate for the University with our key stakeholders."

A 1972 graduate, Fulmer returned to Knoxville as an assistant football coach in 1980. He was promoted to head coach in 1992 and led the Vols to the 1998 national title and two Southeastern Conference titles. He has worked with the UT President's Council as a volunteer since 2015, and Fulmer called this a special opportunity.

"I was excited when he approached me with this position," Fulmer said. "I look forward to serving UT campuses statewide, our communities, and UT athletics for the greater good for our great state and the university."

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