A day of partnerships between UTC, Chattanooga State, and Volkswagen gave 24 students a rare opportunity to drive or ride the 2009 CC sedan. Following a media event to celebrate the new vehicle, students and faculty from both campuses joined Volkswagen officials and local leaders for lunch.
Steve Keyes, Director of Press and Public Relations for Volkswagen Group of America, addressed the group on the educational partnership and the company’s future plans for Chattanooga.
During the re-enactment of a press conference for the students, Keyes said the CC sedan is a cut above the VW Passat, with a price range of $26,790 -$42,000. “It looks more upscale than it costs,” he said.
Several students were asked by Volkswagen to submit a written review of the CC sedan. VW officials plan to select the best entries for publication by a professional media outlet.
The night before the ride and drive event, Volkswagen representatives spoke to Business and Communication students from UTC and Chattanooga State. VW marketing and public relations professionals discussed the company’s approach to branding, business philosophy, marketing strategies and more.
“A well-educated workforce is a benefit to the entire community, not just Volkswagen, and so events like the one we held are a win-win-win,” said Jill Bratina, Director, Corporate Communications for Volkswagen Group of America. “We are invested in the communities we call home, and will be a reliable partner with the state of Tennessee and the city of Chattanooga. Long term commitment is the hallmark of our success and we look forward to a long and productive relationship.”
