July 30, 2025 — Tennessee Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton has appointed prominent Memphis businessman Billy Orgel to a newly added seat on the University of Memphis Board of Trustees (BOT). Orgel, a native Memphian, expressed his appreciation to Speaker Sexton and his excitement for the work ahead.
“I’m honored to be a part of the Board of Trustees at the University of Memphis,” he said. “As a longtime supporter of the University, I look forward to working with my fellow trustees and President Hardgrave to continue to help grow the University to greater heights.”
A graduate of the University of Texas, Orgel has spent the last 40 years transforming the region’s communications landscape through his company Tower Ventures — formerly Majestic Communications — which owns more than 400 cell towers and serves major clients including AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile.
In addition to his professional work, Orgel brings years of leadership experience, having served on the boards of the National Civil Rights Museum, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare and St. Mary’s Episcopal School. He’s currently the chairman of the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council and previously served as chairman of the Shelby County School Board and president of the board of trustees for Temple Israel.
“Billy’s appointment was music to my ears,” said UofM Board of Trustees Chairman Cato Johnson. “I’ve served with him on another board and consider him a friend. This man has dedicated his career to building, preserving and modernizing the city of Memphis, and I know he’ll bring that same energy and insight to the University. Many thanks to Speaker Sexton for this addition.”
Speaker Sexton also reappointed Doug Edwards to a new term. Both he and Johnson are original board members, established by Governor Bill Haslam in 2016, and Johnson said he’s glad to see the “steady and strategic voice” of Edwards remain on the board.
The next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 3.
Media Contact:
Parker King, Assistant Director
University Media and Public Relations
University of Memphis
(O) 901.678.4822
