Fred Smith’s Enduring Legacy of Driving Innovation at the University of Memphis

A true giant of innovation, his visionary leadership and commitment helped position Memphis as a national leader in technology and growth

Fred Smith, founder of FedEx and a pioneer in logistics innovation, transformed the world of commerce by leveraging cutting-edge technology to revolutionize global shipping. His forward-thinking approach to innovation didn’t stop at FedEx—it also laid the foundation for transformative research and technological advancement at the University of Memphis.

More than two decades ago, Smith’s vision helped establish the FedEx Institute of Technology (FIT), a powerful partnership between FedEx and the University of Memphis designed to keep Memphis at the forefront of innovation. The institute was created as a hub for advanced research that pushes boundaries and drives impact across industries.

Today, the FedEx Institute of Technology continues to honor Smith’s legacy by supporting groundbreaking research in fields such as AI, data science, robotics, cybersecurity, autonomous vehicles, drones, biologistics, agriculture and food technologies, smart biomaterials, electric vehicles, additive manufacturing, and precision medicine.

Through this enduring partnership, Fred Smith’s commitment to innovation lives on—positioning Memphis and the University of Memphis as leaders in shaping the future of technology and innovation.

Read the full press release on Fred Smith’s impact as remembered by the University of Memphis.