The inaugural Business Empowerment Academy in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, took place June 25-29 on UTC’s campus.
The BEA gives participants the opportunity to experience college life for a week while learning about business careers from faculty, local business leaders, and trips to local companies. Additionally, students learn life skills such as business etiquette, leadership, financial literacy, and networking skills to prepare them for the business world.
When asked why the BEA was developed, Program Director Catherine Middleton answered: “We felt there were a lot of talented students at under-represented high schools who weren’t being reached by our other programming. We wanted to reach out to students who may face additional challenges in attending college, such as being a first-generation college student or having a financial hardship, and connect them with the Rollins College of Business and Chattanooga business community.”
“We hope that students learn more about the college experience, the opportunities that a college education can provide, and how to navigate the first-year college process,” said Middleton. “Our goal is for the participants to attend college after high school better prepared to meet these challenges.”
To find out more about the UTC Business Empowerment Academy, click here.
To view and download high resolution photos from this year’s program, click here.
Visit the Rollins College of Business Facebook page to view additional coverage from this year’s program.
The Business Empowerment Academy was made possible by the generous support of the First Tennessee Foundation.
