March 10-16, 2026

Updates and news for the week of March 10-16, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates  |  In the Media

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

NEW FEDERAL ADA DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS TAKE EFFECT IN APRIL 2026

Beginning Friday, April 24, all government entities—including public universities—must comply with new ADA Title II requirements for digital accessibility. This update from the U.S. Department of Justice impacts websites, documents, videos, learning systems, mobile apps and other digital tools.

UTC is updating its IT0006 Accessibility policy to align with these federal standards. The UT System is taking a coordinated, systemwide approach involving the Office of General Counsel, Audit and Compliance, Technology Solutions, and campus subject matter experts to guide implementation and ensure compliance.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to begin identifying high-priority, public-facing digital content and review it for accessibility. A Central Hub page has been created with resources, guidance and ongoing updates as we prepare for the 2026 deadline.

Click here to learn more about ADA Title II compliance. Additional information and next steps will be shared by campus leadership as work progresses.

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Outstanding People of UTC

xxx Mina Sartipi (pictured) …

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business’ online Master of Science in Data Analytics program has been ranked No. 21 in TechGuide’s 2026 list of Best Online Master’s in Data Analytics Programs, recognizing the program’s strength in preparing students for careers in data analytics.

The rankings are based on official data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which U.S. colleges and universities report annually to the U.S. Department of Education. The evaluation considers factors including admissions selectivity, class size, faculty support, financial aid availability, graduation outcomes and total enrollment. Click here to view the full 2026 rankings.

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Haley Robert Slifko, a 2014 UTC graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, was honored with the Gen. Robert Neyland Young Engineer of the Year award during the Engineering Week Social Event at the Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall.

Slifko also holds a master’s degree in civil engineering and currently works as a senior transportation project manager at Arcadis in Chattanooga. She also serves as a local officer for the American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE).

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • UC Foundation Associate Professor Saeid Golkar joined Jed & JR Mornings and spoke to NewsChannel 9 about the U.S. conflict with Iran. He also wrote a piece for the publication, Persuasion.
  • Nurse Practitioner Program Director Amber Roaché and project manager for UTC’s Clinical Academic Partnerships Farron Kilburn spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about UTC’s Inclusive Care Conference.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: Ray Soldano/GoMocs.com

Upcoming Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Tuesday, March 10: Men’s Tennis vs. Jacksonville State, UTC Tennis Center, 1 p.m.
  • Friday, March 13: Women’s Tennis vs. Tennessee Wesleyan, UTC Tennis Center, 3 p.m.
  • PEYTON—CHECK WITH JAY FOR THIS WEEK! Monday, March 16: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.
  • Tuesday, March 17: Softball vs. Kennesaw State, Frost Stadium, 5 p.m.
  • Saturday, March 21: Women’s Tennis vs. Wofford, UTC Tennis Center, noon
  • Saturday, March 21: Softball vs. Wofford (doubleheader), Frost Stadium, 1 p.m.
  • Sunday, March 22: Softball vs. Wofford, Frost Stadium, 2 p.m.
  • PEYTON—CHECK WITH JAY FOR THIS WEEK! Monday, March 23: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

MAcc Information Sessions

MSM Information Sessions

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Dr. Haocun Yu, assistant professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at UT Knoxville, will present “Quantum Sensing with Gaussian and Non-Gaussian Light: From Fundamentals to Applications” from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, in UTC Library Room 435 as part of the Quantum Colloquium Series.

Yu will discuss how advanced quantum optical techniques are transforming quantum sensing and enabling unprecedented precision in observing the universe. Her talk will explore how squeezed light enhances the sensitivity of gravitational-wave detectors like LIGO and how photon interferometry using two-photon states can detect phenomena such as Earth’s rotation with extraordinary precision. These approaches open new possibilities for precision measurement, dark matter detection and the future of quantum information processing. See all speakers and details on the Quantum Center – QCS Events page.

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“The End: Books and Conversations on Death and Dying” is a monthly book club dedicated to thoughtfully exploring themes of death and dying. Through shared reading and discussion, participants aim to demystify death and open space for conversation about a topic often considered culturally taboo.

The next meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, in the UTC Library Room 209. The featured book is “The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully” by Frank Ostaseski, described by Macmillan as “an exhilarating meditation on the meaning of life and how maintaining an ever-present consciousness of death can bring us closer to our truest selves.”

Whether you’ve finished the book, just started or are simply curious, all are welcome to join the conversation. For questions, contact Jill Tyson.

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Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to register for the UT Innovative Technologies Symposium, taking place Tuesday through Thursday, March 24-26, at the Knoxville Convention Center. Hosted by UT’s Office of Innovative Technologies, the three-day event will focus on everyday IT challenges, shared interests and emerging solutions while fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among higher education IT professionals across Tennessee.

The symposium will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions and networking opportunities with peers, industry experts and technology companies serving higher education. The event is open to all Tennessee higher education institutions; a $150 registration fee applies to non-UT attendees. Learn more and register here.

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“Take Five 2026: Americans Abroad” invites the UTC campus and broader community to take part in a shared reading experience exploring what happens when Americans travel abroad—for both high and low adventure.

Upcoming selections and presenters include:

  • Tuesday, March 24: Verbie Prevost presents “Daisy Miller” by Henry James
  • Tuesday, April 7: Bryan Hampton presents “The English Experience” by Julie Schumacher

All sessions take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evenings in the University Center Tennessee Room. A light dinner will be served. Books may be ordered through any online retailer or at the UTC Bookstore. Questions can be directed to Aaron Shaheen.

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Dr. Xiunan Wang is organizing a Mathematical Biology Webinar Series as part of her NSF LEAPS-MPS program, supporting learning and engagement with mathematical modeling in biological systems. Hosted online, the series is open to undergraduate and graduate students, educators and others interested in the intersection of mathematics and biology, and features speakers from a range of institutions and career stages.

The upcoming webinar from 2-3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, will feature Dr. Sebastian Stockmaier, assistant professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UT Knoxville. He will present “Merging Behavioral and Disease Ecology: Insights from Vampire Bats,” exploring how animal behavior and infectious disease interact to shape pathogen transmission. Using vampire bats as a model system, Stockmaier examines infection-induced behavioral changes, rabies-driven aggression and cross-species transmission dynamics linking bats and livestock.

Upcoming webinar date:

  • Wednesday, March 25, 3-4 p.m.: Dr. Veronica Ciocanel, Duke University

Click here for Zoom links, passwords and additional details.

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Join the UTC Grad School from 4-5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, in the University Center Admissions Tour Room for a campus tour and learn more about advanced degree opportunities at UTC–plus an added bonus for engineering students.

This guided tour will introduce you to UTC’s historic campus, modern facilities and graduate student experience, while providing an overview of available graduate programs and campus resources. Attendees interested in engineering will also have the opportunity to preview UTC’s engineering labs and facilities firsthand. Click here to learn more and reserve your spot.

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UTC will host the 2026 meeting of the Tennessee Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers (TAAPT) on March 27-28, bringing high school teachers, university faculty and students to campus for a statewide conference. 

Organized by the UTC Department of Physics and Astronomy in collaboration with the UTC Quantum Center, the statewide meeting is designed to support physics educators through professional development, research exchange and networking opportunities. For more information and to register, visit the TAAPT website.

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Interested in graduate school? The UTC Virtual Grad Fair will take place from noon-2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, via Zoom.

Participants can explore more than 30 UTC graduate programs, connect with faculty and program representatives, and learn about admissions, funding and career pathways. Application fee waivers will be available for completed domestic applications submitted March 31-April 12.

The event is open to anyone interested in pursuing a graduate degree at UTC. Click here to learn more and register.

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The UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference will be held from 9 a.m.-5:15 p.m.on Wednesday, April 15, in McKenzie Arena. The conference will showcase research and creative works by UTC undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff. Presentations by MOCS Innovate! awardees, local high school students and community members will also be on display. Presentations, which run concurrently throughout the day, include posters, arts displays and a limited number of oral presentations.

The event is free and open to the public, and attendees can join one session or stay all day. Click here for more information. 

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Lace up your running shoes and join us for the Adventure Awaits 5K and Fun Run on Saturday, April 18, at the UTC Sports Complex. This family-friendly event invites runners, walkers and adventurers of all ages to come together for a meaningful cause.

All proceeds from the race benefit the Mocs Adventure Camp Scholarship Fund, helping provide kids with the opportunity to attend summer camp, where they can adventure, build confidence, make lifelong friendships and create unforgettable memories.

Choose between a fun 5K through campus or a kid-friendly fun run at the sports complex. Enjoy local food trucks, games and other outdoor activities on the field while you wait for your 5K finisher. Click here for more information and to register.

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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following students will be presenting their final works of research as advanced degree candidates. Everyone is invited to attend.

Welcome to UTC

Campus Updates

After careful consideration, the University will transition to Microsoft 365 as our primary university-wide platform for collaboration and productivity tools. Moving to a single platform will provide a more reliable and consistent user experience across campuses, reinforce the University’s commitment to security and privacy, and address the rising costs associated with maintaining multiple systems.

Students admitted for Fall 2026 will be the first class fully onboarded to Microsoft 365 for email, file storage and collaboration tools. As we prepare for this upcoming transition, we have put together several guides to assist with questions you may have about the project. Stay tuned for future updates.

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Dr. Liz Hathaway, 2025 UTAA Outstanding Teacher Award recipient

Each year, the University of Tennessee Alumni Association honors outstanding UTC faculty and staff through two prestigious awards: Outstanding Teacher and Public Service. Awardees will receive a $1,000 honorarium and an invitation to the UTAA Board of Governors reception and dinner. Click here to nominate deserving faculty and staff by Friday, March 27.

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The Boyd Venture Challenge is an annual seed-funding competition open to undergraduate and graduate students across the UT System. Each spring, the challenge awards a total of $50,000 in non-dilutive startup capital, with individual grants of up to $25,000 to help student entrepreneurs move their businesses forward.

Eligible businesses must be legally established and structured as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC or corporation with a federal tax ID, and the student applicant must hold majority ownership. Applicants selected to pitch must demonstrate traction, such as revenue, customer or mentor recommendations, purchase orders, MOUs or participation in programs like iCore. Previous awardees may reapply but must show how prior funding advanced their business.

Applications close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 3. Selected applicants will be invited to pitch their business plans in person. Click here to learn more about the 2025 winners and application details.

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For the past 12 years, Keep Music Alive—a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote the value of music—has sponsored the worldwide event known as Teach Music Week each March. Music teachers, schools, music and movement groups and music stores are invited to participate in this annual celebration.

Throughout March, Janet Sump, adjunct instructor of piano, will offer a complimentary music lesson to any pre-college student interested in studying piano, violin or participating in Piano Klass Kidz (class piano for children ages 6-8). Faculty and staff whose children have expressed interest in studying music are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.

To schedule a lesson, contact Janet Sump or 423-316-0398.

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UTC’s Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science (CAGDS) has been selected as a finalist in the 2025 ArcGIS StoryMaps Competition, earning international recognition for an interactive mapping project that uses geospatial data science and artificial intelligence to guide where trees are planted across the city.

“Mapping Chattanooga’s Urban Forests,” a StoryMap created by GIS Director Charlie Mix, documents how UTC researchers, city leaders and nonprofit partners are using data to address urban heat and tree canopy loss. The public is invited to cast a vote for the Community Choice Award through Tuesday, March 10.

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UTC is gearing up for a summer full of camps for local K-12 students, with options ranging from quantum computing to sports clinics. Designed to keep students active and engaged, camps are led by UTC faculty, staff and athletics programs and offer opportunities for elementary, middle and high school students to explore new interests and sharpen skills. Click here to learn more.

  • Mocs Adventure Camp (K-8): Weekly sessions June 1-July 31; activities include climbing, swimming, sports and games; $320 per week.
  • Challenger Exploration Camp (rising 3rd-6th graders): July 6-31; space missions, coding, robotics, rocket launches and local excursions; $290.50 per week.
  • Quantum Summer Camp (rising 10th-12th graders): June 15-18; hands-on exploration of quantum computing and real-world problem-solving; $200.
  • Chattanooga Volleyball Camps (various ages): June and July sessions; costs vary.
  • Men’s Basketball Camps (ages 7-17): June 22-25 and July 20-23; $310.

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Safe@UTC, the new campus safety smartphone app, provides students, faculty and staff with direct access to safety resources. The app allows users to directly connect with the UTC Police via one-touch panic button functionality, anonymously report suspicious activity, initiate a remotely monitored Safe Walk, request a Safe Ride and quickly access other campus resources. The new app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.

Click here for video directions to the Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center, located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.

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The Humanities Program invites all UTC undergraduates to participate in the North Callahan Essay Prize competition. The prize is awarded annually to an undergraduate whose exceptionally fine essay addresses a subject related to the humanities, including art, music, philosophy, religion, rhetoric and literature, history, theater or interdisciplinary studies that combine these disciplines. Essays will be evaluated by an interdisciplinary committee of professors, and the winner will receive a $1,000 award. All essays must be submitted electronically to Dr. José-Luis Gastañaga by 5 p.m. on Monday, March 23. Learn more by clicking here.

Funding for the prize is provided by an endowment established by the late Dr. North Callahan, distinguished professor emeritus of history at New York University, author of 17 books and alumnus of the University of Chattanooga.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center is accepting proposals for the REACH Fund, a new seed-funding program supporting applied research that turns data into action for healthier communities. Selected projects may receive up to $25,000 to explore how social determinants of health influence outcomes in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, with applications due Monday, March 30. Applications are available here.

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The Environmental Studies program is partnering with the SGA Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials to turn old glass into the new lobby floor of Oak Street Residence Hall.

UTC students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring empty, clean glass jars—such as teriyaki sauce, strawberry jam and pickle jars—to the bright yellow collection bins located at Stacy Town Center and the University Center Roundabout, directly across from the Esports Complex.

 All glass colors are accepted, with dark blue glass especially encouraged. Collection bins will be available from now through the start of spring break.

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UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement. Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions, and additional information will be shared with those who express interest.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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UTC is excited to host Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies to celebrate graduates’ achievements. The ceremony dates and times for each college are listed below.

  • Friday, May 8, College of Health, Education and Professional Studies…College of Nursing, 2:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 9, College of Arts and Sciences, 9 a.m.
  • Saturday, May 9,College of Engineering and Computer Science…Gary W. Rollins College of Business, 2 p.m.

All ceremonies will be combined undergraduate and graduate ceremonies.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

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The Chattanooga Mocs will host the Mercer Bears on Saturday, Nov. 7, for Homecoming 2026 at Finley Stadium—a date students and alumni will want to circle in blue and gold.

Homecoming week will feature campus events and competitions leading up to kickoff, making it one of the most anticipated traditions of the year. The Mocs hold a 61-31-4 all-time record in Homecoming games and are 3-2-1 against Mercer in past Homecoming matchups.

Season tickets are on sale now, with season pass renewals open through Friday, May 29. For assistance, contact the UTC Ticket Office by email or by phone 423-266-6627.

UTC Newsroom

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

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WUTC

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IN Memoriam

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xxx. A full obituary is available here.

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This section is reserved for memorial announcements of current and former UTC employees as the Office of Communications and Marketing becomes aware. To publish an announcement, a publicly available obituary must be provided. Please send any announcements to Vice Chancellor JAy Blackman at jay-blackman@utc.edu.
 

March 3-9, 2026

Updates and news for the week of March 3-9, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates  |  In the Media

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

Strategic Plan 2025-2030

The UT System Board of Trustees has officially approved the UTC 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, establishing a bold, metric-driven roadmap to guide UTC’s continued growth and impact through the end of the decade.

The plan reflects nearly two years of campus collaboration, data analysis and community engagement. Initiated in spring 2024 under Chancellor Emeritus Steven Angle and advanced by Interim Chancellor Robert Dooley, the effort included more than 2,000 data points and campus-wide roadshows and surveys to ensure broad input and measurable outcomes.

Anchored by UTC’s vision to be “a model metropolitan university that unites learner success, innovative research, and community partnerships to spark transformative growth and prosperity,” the plan outlines clear aspirations for 2030, including achieving Carnegie R2 status as a high research activity institution and strategically expanding enrollment to 15,000 students.

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Measles vs. the Mocs: What You Need to Know

Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.

UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.

Take action today:

  • Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
  • Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
  • Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.

Click here for more information.

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Mocs Women’s Basketball are SoCon Regular Season Champions

Your Mocs women’s basketball program has clinched a share of the 2025-26 Southern Conference Regular Season Title. The title marks the program’s 24th regular-season championship, a conference record.

They will head to Asheville next week as the No. 1 seed, looking to add a 21st SoCon Tournament Title to the trophy case. The tournament starts next Thursday, March 5. The Mocs will begin play at 11 a.m.

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Women’s History Month events

The Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies department invites students, faculty and staff to celebrate Women’s History Month with the following events:

  • Today (March 3): STEM panel, Metropolitan Building Room 231 (518 Oak St.), 12:30 p.m.
  • Friday, March 6: Glimmer and Shine art exhibit opening, Wavelength Gallery (854 McCallie Ave.), 5-8 p.m.
  • Wednesday, March 11: Keynote speaker Lisa Hendy, Guerry Center Reading Room, 6 p.m.
  • Friday, March 27: UTC Book Club discussion of “Lessons in Chemistry,” Library Room 440, 3 p.m.
  • Tuesday, March 31: UTC History Club Movie Night featuring “Hidden Figures,” Derthick Hall Room 101, 7 p.m.

Outstanding People of UTC

Hattie Martinek

Hattie Martinek, a UTC senior majoring in political science and public service and a member of the Innovations in Honors program in the Honors College, has been selected for the highly competitive Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Junior Summer Institute (JSI) at the University of Michigan’s Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.

The PPIA JSI program is designed to prepare undergraduates for graduate study and careers in public service. Participation requires a commitment to pursuing a master’s degree in public policy or international affairs at a PPIA consortium graduate school.

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Hannah Stone (left) and Catherine Meeks Quinlan

Students and staff at UTC are helping shape the upcoming Oak Street Residence Hall in a unique way by incorporating recycled glass into the building’s lobby floor.

UTC’s campus is participating in a glass drive through Friday, March 13, where students, faculty and community members can donate used glass for the project. The glass drive is a partnership between UTC’s Environmental Studies program, the Student Environmental Action and Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects, and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials.

Hannah Stone, a senior majoring in integrated studies with concentrations in environmental science, environmental studies and creative writing, has been leading the initiative along with Associate Lecturer of English and Co-Director of Environmental Studies Catherine Meeks Quinlan.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • UTC Special Collections’ completed grant-funded project to preserve Dr. Tommie Brown’s papers was featured in the Chattanoogan and the Chattanooga Pulse. Special Collections Director Carolyn Runyan spoke to the Hamilton County Herald about the project.
  • An MSN article about conflict in Iran featured UC Foundation Associate Professor Saeid Golkar.
  • Robert L. Wilson Professor of Geology Amy Brock-Hon wrote an article about the Raccoon Mountain Caverns for the Tennessee Conservationist.
  • Library Dean Tim Gritten joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss the importance of the UTC Library and its resources.
  • Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and UC Foundation Professor Elizabeth O’Brien talked about longevity fixation syndrome on Jed & JR Mornings.
  • West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs Brandon Bouchillon joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss his research on the benefits of group texting.
  • UTC student and country music artist Bella Lam discussed her new single “Take it Out on my Guitar” with News 12 Now.
  • Dr. Dawn Ford spoke to NewsChannel 9 about the impacts of lead on children and adults.
  • Assistant Professor Emma McDonnell discussed bills about food and nutrition for a Times Free Press article.
  • Literacy Director for the Center for Excellence and Innovation in Education Yvette Stewart spoke to NewsChannel 9 about UTC’s new literacy pilot program.
  • A Hamilton County Herald article discussed junior elementary education student Abby Clark’s Medal of Honor Teacher Fellowship, assistant professor Hemangi Mavadiya’s Outstanding Dietetic Educator of the Year award and UTC’s new safety app, Safe@UTC.
  • The Hamilton County Herald recognized Gary W. Rollins College of Business students and John C. Stophel Distinguished Student awardees John Dempsey, Kestutis Dubininkas, Madison Goble, Chandler Mason, Ana Morris, Paige Proseus and Juliet Romines.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: Ray Soldano/GoMocs.com

Upcoming Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Saturday, March 7: Men’s Tennis vs. The Citadel, UTC Tennis Center, noon
  • Monday, March 9: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.
  • Tuesday, March 10: Men’s Tennis vs. Jacksonville State, UTC Tennis Center, 1 p.m.
  • Friday, March 13: Women’s Tennis vs. Tennessee Wesleyan, UTC Tennis Center, 3 p.m.

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In honor of Women’s History Month, the Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies department will host a STEM Panel from 12:30-1:45 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, in Metropolitan Building Room 231 (518 Oak St.).

Women professionals will discuss their careers and research in STEM fields. All students, faculty and staff are invited to attend.

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“Take Five 2026: Americans Abroad” invites the UTC campus and broader community to take part in a shared reading experience exploring what happens when Americans travel abroad—for both high and low adventure.

Upcoming selections and presenters include:

  • Today (March 3): Will Kuby presents “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
  • Tuesday, March 24: Verbie Prevost presents “Daisy Miller” by Henry James
  • Tuesday, April 7: Bryan Hampton presents “The English Experience” by Julie Schumacher

All sessions take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evenings in the University Center Tennessee Room. A light dinner will be served. Books may be ordered through any online retailer or at the UTC Bookstore. Questions can be directed to Aaron Shaheen.

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What began as a grant-supported effort to address gaps in care for medically underserved communities has grown into one of the area’s most consistent forums for sharing practical, evidence-based approaches to inclusive care.

On Wednesday, March 4, the UTC College of Nursing will bring together health professionals, community partners and caregivers from across the region for the 10th annual Inclusive Care Conference—a daylong virtual conference focused on one of health care’s fastest-growing needs: caring for older adults.

The event, which will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., is free and open to the public, with optional continuing education units available for a fee. Click here to register.

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Dr. Xiunan Wang is organizing a Mathematical Biology Webinar Series as part of her NSF LEAPS-MPS program, supporting learning and engagement with mathematical modeling in biological systems. Hosted online, the series is open to undergraduate and graduate students, educators and others interested in the intersection of mathematics and biology, and features speakers from a range of institutions and career stages.

The upcoming webinar from 2-3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, will feature Dr. Sebastian Stockmaier, assistant professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UT Knoxville. He will present “Merging Behavioral and Disease Ecology: Insights from Vampire Bats,” exploring how animal behavior and infectious disease interact to shape pathogen transmission. Using vampire bats as a model system, Stockmaier examines infection-induced behavioral changes, rabies-driven aggression and cross-species transmission dynamics linking bats and livestock.

Upcoming webinar date:

  • Wednesday, March 25, 3-4 p.m.: Dr. Veronica Ciocanel, Duke University

Click here for Zoom links, passwords and additional details.

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Career Connections will host a “How to Follow Up After an Interview” event from 3-4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, in Fletcher Hall Room 109. This workshop will teach you how to master professional follow-up techniques, including how to write impactful thank-you emails, proper timing and what to say (and avoid) after your interview.

Students interested in attending should email Megan Cales to register or learn more.

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The UTC Department of Communication invites you to the 10th annual Photo Night on Wednesday, March 4, celebrating the power of visual storytelling and the photojournalists behind it.

A complimentary VIP reception will be held from 5-6 p.m. in the UTC Fine Arts Center. Guests can check in at the VIP table upon arrival. The main program will follow from 6-8 p.m. in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall and will feature a Q&A-style conversation with four distinguished photojournalists.

Founded by award-winning photojournalist and associate lecturer Billy Weeks, Photo Night also highlights work from Rising Rock, UTC’s student-powered storytelling lab.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

MAcc Information Sessions

MSM Information Sessions

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Graduate students are invited to unwind at “Thrive & Flourish: Mindfulness & Wellness Recharge” from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, in the Fletcher Hall fourth-floor lounge.

The event will feature a DIY aromatherapy bar, hot tea station and guided journal-making space designed to help students relax and reset. RSVP on MocSync to reserve a spot.

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The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies will host the next installment of its “What’s the Big Idea?” lunch discussion series from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Friday, March 6, in Lupton Hall Room 235.

Dr. Ian Dunkle will lead a conversation titled “Doing Wrong For Its Own Sake: Possible? Distinct? Sometimes Good?” Pizza and beverages will be served.

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The Institute for Contemporary Art presents “The Cupola Project,” an exhibition on view through Friday, March 6. Initiated in 2023 by artist and professor Martijn Van Wagtendonk as a sculpture assignment at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, the project has grown to engage more than 45 students and faculty from diverse disciplines.

Inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, “The Cupola Project” integrates engineering, science, language, music, philosophy and kinetic sculpture into a large-scale interactive structure. Constructed with mortise-and-tenon joints, the work has continued to evolve over recent years. Designed with portability in mind, Cupola functions like a mobile fairground attraction, easily assembled and disassembled to travel and engage audiences.

The ICA is free and open to the public from noon-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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UTC Innovations in Honors students are hosting a family-friendly music and dance event, “Dancing Through the Decades,” from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at the Carver Community Center. The event will serve as the introduction to an intergenerational mentorship program connecting teens, young adults and seniors in Chattanooga through S.T.E.A.M.-based engagement opportunities.

College-aged students are especially encouraged to attend to learn more about participating in the future program. Clubs, organizations and individual students interested in volunteer or community engagement opportunities can find more information here. Those who would simply like to attend are invited to join the celebration.

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Alum Fred Lemmons will return to campus to perform at the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall. Photo courtesy of Fred Lemmons.

A UTC music alumnus whose career includes 21 years with “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band will return to campus Sunday, March 8, for a 3 p.m. performance at the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall.

Master Gunnery Sergeant Fred Lemmons, USMC (Retired), a 1982 UTC graduate with a bachelor’s degree in music education, will be a featured soloist for “An Afternoon of Music” by the Mid-South Symphonic Band. Lemmons will perform “Introduction, Theme, and Variations” by Gioacchino Rossini, followed by an encore designed to surprise the audience. Click here for more information.

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“The End: Books and Conversations on Death and Dying” is a monthly book club dedicated to thoughtfully exploring themes of death and dying. Through shared reading and discussion, participants aim to demystify death and open space for conversation about a topic often considered culturally taboo.

The next meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, in the UTC Library Room 209. The featured book is “The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully” by Frank Ostaseski, described by Macmillan as “an exhilarating meditation on the meaning of life and how maintaining an ever-present consciousness of death can bring us closer to our truest selves.”

Whether you’ve finished the book, just started or are simply curious, all are welcome to join the conversation. For questions, contact Jill Tyson.

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Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to register for the UT Innovative Technologies Symposium, taking place Tuesday through Thursday, March 24-26, at the Knoxville Convention Center. Hosted by UT’s Office of Innovative Technologies, the three-day event will focus on everyday IT challenges, shared interests and emerging solutions while fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among higher education IT professionals across Tennessee.

The symposium will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions and networking opportunities with peers, industry experts and technology companies serving higher education. The event is open to all Tennessee higher education institutions; a $150 registration fee applies to non-UT attendees. Learn more and register here.

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Join the UTC Grad School from 4-5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, in the University Center Admissions Tour Room for a campus tour and learn more about advanced degree opportunities at UTC–plus an added bonus for engineering students.

This guided tour will introduce you to UTC’s historic campus, modern facilities and graduate student experience, while providing an overview of available graduate programs and campus resources. Attendees interested in engineering will also have the opportunity to preview UTC’s engineering labs and facilities firsthand. Click here to learn more and reserve your spot.

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UTC will host the 2026 meeting of the Tennessee Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers (TAAPT) on March 27-28, bringing high school teachers, university faculty and students to campus for a statewide conference. 

Organized by the UTC Department of Physics and Astronomy in collaboration with the UTC Quantum Center, the statewide meeting is designed to support physics educators through professional development, research exchange and networking opportunities. For more information and to register, visit the TAAPT website.

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Interested in graduate school? The UTC Virtual Grad Fair will take place from noon-2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, via Zoom.

Participants can explore more than 30 UTC graduate programs, connect with faculty and program representatives, and learn about admissions, funding and career pathways. Application fee waivers will be available for completed domestic applications submitted March 31-April 12.

The event is open to anyone interested in pursuing a graduate degree at UTC. Click here to learn more and register.

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The UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference will be held from 9 a.m.-5:15 p.m.on Wednesday, April 15, in McKenzie Arena. The conference will showcase research and creative works by UTC undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff. Presentations by MOCS Innovate! awardees, local high school students and community members will also be on display. Presentations, which run concurrently throughout the day, include posters, arts displays and a limited number of oral presentations.

The event is free and open to the public, and attendees can join one session or stay all day. Click here for more information. 

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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following students will be presenting their final works of research as advanced degree candidates. Everyone is invited to attend.

Campus Updates

March is National Nutrition Month—a reminder that food fuels your body and brain, especially during busy study days. Aim to build balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and plenty of water to keep your energy steady and your focus sharp. Small choices—like not skipping meals, cooking in your dorm and adding colorful foods to your plate—can make a meaningful difference over time, both mentally and physically.

Be sure to check out Scrappy’s Market, held twice a month in the University Center, for free, fresh and accessible food options. Keep an eye out for nutrition tabling events around campus throughout the month.

For more nutrition-related information, contact the Center for Wellbeing in University Center Room 207.

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Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Student SEARCH Award, which provides a $1,000 award to support UTC graduate and undergraduate students across all disciplines who pursue original scholarship under the direction and supervision of UTC faculty. The student application deadline is Sunday, March 8.

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Dr. Liz Hathaway, 2025 UTAA Outstanding Teacher Award recipient

Each year, the University of Tennessee Alumni Association honors outstanding UTC faculty and staff through two prestigious awards: Outstanding Teacher and Public Service. Awardees will receive a $1,000 honorarium and an invitation to the UTAA Board of Governors reception and dinner. Click here to nominate deserving faculty and staff by Friday, March 27.

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The Boyd Venture Challenge is an annual seed-funding competition open to undergraduate and graduate students across the UT System. Each spring, the challenge awards a total of $50,000 in non-dilutive startup capital, with individual grants of up to $25,000 to help student entrepreneurs move their businesses forward.

Eligible businesses must be legally established and structured as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC or corporation with a federal tax ID, and the student applicant must hold majority ownership. Applicants selected to pitch must demonstrate traction, such as revenue, customer or mentor recommendations, purchase orders, MOUs or participation in programs like iCore. Previous awardees may reapply but must show how prior funding advanced their business.

Applications close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 3. Selected applicants will be invited to pitch their business plans in person. Click here to learn more about the 2025 winners and application details.

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For the past 12 years, Keep Music Alive—a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote the value of music—has sponsored the worldwide event known as Teach Music Week each March. Music teachers, schools, music and movement groups and music stores are invited to participate in this annual celebration.

Throughout March, Janet Sump, adjunct instructor of piano, will offer a complimentary music lesson to any pre-college student interested in studying piano, violin or participating in Piano Klass Kidz (class piano for children ages 6-8). Faculty and staff whose children have expressed interest in studying music are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.

To schedule a lesson, contact Janet Sump or 423-316-0398.

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UTC’s Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science (CAGDS) has been selected as a finalist in the 2025 ArcGIS StoryMaps Competition, earning international recognition for an interactive mapping project that uses geospatial data science and artificial intelligence to guide where trees are planted across the city.

“Mapping Chattanooga’s Urban Forests,” a StoryMap created by GIS Director Charlie Mix, documents how UTC researchers, city leaders and nonprofit partners are using data to address urban heat and tree canopy loss. The public is invited to cast a vote for the Community Choice Award through Tuesday, March 10.

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UTC is gearing up for a summer full of camps for local K-12 students, with options ranging from quantum computing to sports clinics. Designed to keep students active and engaged, camps are led by UTC faculty, staff and athletics programs and offer opportunities for elementary, middle and high school students to explore new interests and sharpen skills. Click here to learn more.

  • Mocs Adventure Camp (K-8): Weekly sessions June 1-July 31; activities include climbing, swimming, sports and games; $320 per week.
  • Challenger Exploration Camp (rising 3rd-6th graders): July 6-31; space missions, coding, robotics, rocket launches and local excursions; $290.50 per week.
  • Quantum Summer Camp (rising 10th-12th graders): June 15-18; hands-on exploration of quantum computing and real-world problem-solving; $200.
  • Chattanooga Volleyball Camps (various ages): June and July sessions; costs vary.
  • Men’s Basketball Camps (ages 7-17): June 22-25 and July 20-23; $310.

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Safe@UTC, the new campus safety smartphone app, provides students, faculty and staff with direct access to safety resources. The app allows users to directly connect with the UTC Police via one-touch panic button functionality, anonymously report suspicious activity, initiate a remotely monitored Safe Walk, request a Safe Ride and quickly access other campus resources. The new app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.

Click here for video directions to the Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center, located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.

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The Humanities Program invites all UTC undergraduates to participate in the North Callahan Essay Prize competition. The prize is awarded annually to an undergraduate whose exceptionally fine essay addresses a subject related to the humanities, including art, music, philosophy, religion, rhetoric and literature, history, theater or interdisciplinary studies that combine these disciplines. Essays will be evaluated by an interdisciplinary committee of professors, and the winner will receive a $1,000 award. All essays must be submitted electronically to Dr. José-Luis Gastañaga by 5 p.m. on Monday, March 23. Learn more by clicking here.

Funding for the prize is provided by an endowment established by the late Dr. North Callahan, distinguished professor emeritus of history at New York University, author of 17 books and alumnus of the University of Chattanooga.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center is accepting proposals for the REACH Fund, a new seed-funding program supporting applied research that turns data into action for healthier communities. Selected projects may receive up to $25,000 to explore how social determinants of health influence outcomes in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, with applications due Monday, March 30. Applications are available here.

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The Environmental Studies program is partnering with the SGA Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials to turn old glass into the new lobby floor of Oak Street Residence Hall.

UTC students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring empty, clean glass jars—such as teriyaki sauce, strawberry jam and pickle jars—to the bright yellow collection bins located at Stacy Town Center and the University Center Roundabout, directly across from the Esports Complex.

 All glass colors are accepted, with dark blue glass especially encouraged. Collection bins will be available from now through the start of spring break.

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UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement. Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions, and additional information will be shared with those who express interest.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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UTC is excited to host Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies to celebrate graduates’ achievements. The ceremony dates and times for each college are listed below.

  • Friday, May 8, College of Health, Education and Professional Studies…College of Nursing, 2:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 9, College of Arts and Sciences, 9 a.m.
  • Saturday, May 9,College of Engineering and Computer Science…Gary W. Rollins College of Business, 2 p.m.

All ceremonies will be combined undergraduate and graduate ceremonies.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

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The Chattanooga Mocs will host the Mercer Bears on Saturday, Nov. 7, for Homecoming 2026 at Finley Stadium—a date students and alumni will want to circle in blue and gold.

Homecoming week will feature campus events and competitions leading up to kickoff, making it one of the most anticipated traditions of the year. The Mocs hold a 61-31-4 all-time record in Homecoming games and are 3-2-1 against Mercer in past Homecoming matchups.

Season tickets are on sale now, with season pass renewals open through Friday, May 29. For assistance, contact the UTC Ticket Office by email or by phone 423-266-6627.

UTC Newsroom

Black-and-white photograph of (from left to right) an unidentified individual, Margaret Sloan-Hunter, Gloria Steinem, and Tommie F. Brown. Photo courtesy of University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Special Collections.

Just days before Dr. Tommie F. Brown passed away at the age of 91 on Jan. 20, 2026, archivists at UTC crossed a significant finish line: the completion of a federally funded project to process and open Brown’s personal and professional papers for public research.

The 18-month project, supported by a $144,049 grant from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission, resulted in the full processing of the Tommie F. Brown papers—a 172-box collection documenting the life and work of a woman whose influence shaped UTC, Chattanooga and the state of Tennessee.

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Steven Kline

After years as a UTC student, teacher and advisor, Steven Kline now leads the Clarence T. Jones Observatory—nearly 15 years after first getting involved as an assistant. Kline sat down to explain his role.

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Sarah Kantor

On the third floor of the UTC Library is a creative space many students pass without realizing what it offers. The UTC Library Studio provides all students with digital software, creative outlets and hands-on assistance.

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

WUTC

Jeremiah Harmon

Singer-songwriter Jeremiah Harmon performed and discussed his upcoming album on WUTC’s “Live in the Library.”
 

February 24-March 2, 2026

Updates and news for the week of February 24-March 2, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates  |  In the Media

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

Homecoming 2026 Set for Nov. 7

The Chattanooga Mocs will host the Mercer Bears on Saturday, Nov. 7, for Homecoming 2026 at Finley Stadium—a date students and alumni will want to circle in blue and gold.

Homecoming week will feature campus events and competitions leading up to kickoff, making it one of the most anticipated traditions of the year. The Mocs hold a 61-31-4 all-time record in Homecoming games and are 3-2-1 against Mercer in past Homecoming matchups.

Season tickets are on sale now, with season pass renewals open through Friday, May 29. Fans who renew or purchase today (Feb. 24) will lock in 2027 pricing and be entered to win special perks, including a Finley Stadium suite experience, Touchdown Terrace access, a season parking pass and other benefits.

For assistance, contact the UTC Ticket Office by email or by phone 423-266-6627.

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Measles vs. the Mocs: What You Need to Know

Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.

UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.

Take action today:

  • Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
  • Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
  • Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.

Click here for more information.

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Mocs Wrestling Wins 18th SoCon Regular Season Title

The Chattanooga Mocs wrestling team captured its 18th Southern Conference regular season championship—the most in school history—with a 26-9 road win at Bellarmine to close out the regular season.

UTC finished 7-1 in SoCon duals and won eight of 10 bouts in the finale, pulling away late to secure the title. The championship marks another milestone season for the program as it heads into postseason competition.

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FIRESIDE CHAT WITH DR. MATHEW KNOWLES

Dr. Mathew Knowles—former UTC basketball player, renowned music executive and father of global artists Beyoncé and Solange—will return to campus for a moderated fireside conversation at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall at the UTC Fine Arts Center (doors open at 5:30 p.m.).

Moderated by Vice Chancellor Stacy Lightfoot, the discussion will focus on leadership, entrepreneurship and health, with audience-submitted questions and brief closing remarks from Chancellor Lori Bruce.

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are available here. In addition to Friday’s event, Knowles will spend time with students, alumni and community partners throughout his visit, including recognition at the UTC men’s basketball game on Feb. 28.

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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER

It is again time to recruit campus partners to send in information for the UTC Parent and Family Association newsletter, a monthly roundup distributed to more than 5,400 parents and family members.

To share information with the families of UTC students—upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25. The February newsletter will be emailed to members Wednesday, March 4.

Outstanding People of UTC

Dr. Erin Ryan

Dr. Erin Ryan, professor and head of the Department of Communication, has been named a 2026 Faculty Champion by the Center for Community News at the University of Vermont. Ryan is part of the program’s largest class to date, with 150 journalism leaders recognized nationwide for launching or expanding university-led reporting programs that strengthen local news and provide hands-on student experience.

As a CCN Faculty Champion, Ryan will receive a $1,000 award along with yearlong peer support and coaching. This year’s cohort represents 41 states, two Canadian provinces and a wide range of public and private institutions.

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Check out these Mocs making news:

  • Scrappy Moc, UTC’s mascot, sat down for a Q&A with CityScope magazine for a “Meet the Mascots” article.
  • Assistant Vice Chancellor of Athletic Academic Enhancement Emily Blackman joined Jed & JR Mornings to highlight the academic success of UTC student-athletes and the culture of achievement built over her 15 years on campus.
  • Director of Football Operations Emily Baustert was selected for the 2026 NFL Women’s Forum presented by Amazon Web Services.
  • Student Payton McLain was featured in a Times Free Press story about a winter formal she organized with the help of her friends.
  • Dr. Lucy Schultz, assistant professor of philosophy and environmental studies, spoke to the Times Free Press about local land conservation efforts.
  • Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall was quoted in NewsChannel 9 stories about the cost of car loans and an agreement between Volkswagen and members of the Chattanooga United Auto Workers. He also spoke to News 12 Now about the potential local impact of a Supreme Court tariff ruling.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: Ray Soldano/GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Thursday, Feb. 26: Men’s Tennis vs. Toledo, UTC Tennis Center, 1 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 26: Men’s Basketball vs. UNCG, McKenzie Arena, 7 p.m.
  • Friday, Feb. 27: Men’s Tennis vs. Austin Peay, UTC Tennis Center, 1 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 28: Men’s Basketball vs. VMI, McKenzie Arena, 2 p.m.
  • Sunday, March 1: Men’s Tennis vs. Presbyterian, UTC Tennis Center, 11 a.m.
  • Sunday, March 1: Women’s Tennis vs. Bellarmine, UTC Tennis Center, 2 p.m.
  • Monday, March 2: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.

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Career Connections and the School of Education will host Teacher Recruitment Day from 10-11:30 a.m. today (Feb. 24), in the University Center Tennessee Room. Students are invited to network with more than 35 school districts and schools.

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As part of a weeklong celebration of recovery at UTC, students, faculty and staff are invited to a Recovery Block Party from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. today (Feb. 24) on Vine Street. The event will feature recovery resources, therapy dogs, free coffee and popcorn, offering a chance to celebrate the many pathways students take toward wellness and the importance of campus spaces where they feel supported and encouraged.

“I’m Harper Bizzell and I’m a junior at UTC,” one student shared. “I have been going to the Mocs Recovery lounge on a regular basis for about a year now and it has made my day to day life better and much more manageable. I have struggled with addiction alone for many years and it’s been through Mocs Recovery where I have found a community that truly cares and supports me. I frequent support meetings like All Recovery and SMART every week and look forward to events that the lounge has going on. I truly love this place, it’s a big part of my life.”

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An information session will take place at 2 p.m. today (Feb. 24) in Fletcher Hall Room 109 and on Zoom for the Fall 2026 International Business Semester Abroad in Singapore, open to Rollins College of Business students. Participants will study at Singapore Management University (SMU), ranked among the top institutions globally for business and management, and choose from a wide range of courses in business, economics, social sciences and more—taught in English in small, interactive classes. The program runs from Aug. 13-Dec. 6, 2026.

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Scrappy’s Cupboard is open and operational for the spring semester and is now located in University Center Room 278. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. All UTC faculty, staff and students are welcome to visit. Patrons may use Scrappy’s Cupboard once per month, no questions asked.

Scrappy’s Cupboard is currently in critical need of paper products and can always use shelf-stable food donations. Clothing donations are not being accepted at this time. If you’d like to lend a hand, volunteers are always welcome and greatly appreciated. Click here to sign up.

The next Scrappy’s Markets will take place from 2-4 p.m. today (Feb. 24) on the second floor of the University Center. Upcoming spring markets will be held from 2-4 p.m. in the University Center on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, March 11
  • Tuesday, March 24
  • Wednesday, April 8
  • Tuesday, April 21

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In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. War for Independence, UTC will welcome historian Richard J. Bell of the University of Maryland at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, in the Guerry Center Reading Room.

Bell will present “The American Revolution and the Fate of the World,” based on his 2025 book exploring how the Revolution reshaped the global order and connected events in America to developments in China, India, Africa, Central America and Australia.

UTC previously hosted Bell virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic to celebrate his award-finalist book “Stolen: Five Free Boys Kidnapped into Slavery and Their Astonishing Journey Home.” Organizers encourage faculty to share the event with students and colleagues.

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Annie Mitchell as Alice and Teagan Bartz as Alfred star in the UTC Theatre Co.’s upcoming production of “Alice by Heart.” Photo courtesy of UTC Theatre Co.

A story of imagination forged under pressure takes the stage later this month when “Alice by Heart,” a musical set against the backdrop of the London Blitz during World War II, comes to the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre. 

Performed by the UTC Theatre Co., “Alice by Heart” runs at 7:30 p.m. now through Saturday, Feb. 28, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Feb. 28. 

Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office—in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $20 for students (with proof of student ID) and seniors. 

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The Turtle Island Quartet

The Grammy Award-winning Turtle Island Quartet will perform today (Feb. 24) at the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall as part of the UTC Live! concert series. 

Founded in 1985, the Turtle Island Quartet is widely recognized for redefining the possibilities of the classical string quartet by blending classical technique with contemporary American musical styles. The ensemble has earned Grammy Awards for Best Classical Crossover Album and has built an international reputation for performances that draw from jazz, folk, bluegrass, Latin, rock, funk and improvisational traditions. 

Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. performance can be purchased online and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office. 

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Dr. Saeid Golkar

UC Foundation Associate Professor Saeid Golkar will present “Protest, Repression, & Human Rights in Iran: What the Current Uprisings Reveal About the Regime’s Future” from noon-1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, in Derthick Hall Room 201. Sponsored by the Department of Political Science and Public Service, the talk will examine how Iran’s current protest cycle sheds light on state repression, security institutions and human rights implications, as well as what these dynamics suggest about the regime’s future. The event is free and open to the public.

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Dr. Xiunan Wang is organizing a Mathematical Biology Webinar Series as part of her NSF LEAPS-MPS program, supporting learning and engagement with mathematical modeling in biological systems. Hosted online, the series is open to undergraduate and graduate students, educators and others interested in the intersection of mathematics and biology, and features speakers from a range of institutions and career stages.

The upcoming webinar from 4-5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, will feature Dr. Suzanne Robertson, associate professor in the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Virginia Commonwealth University. She will present “Modeling the impact of temperature and resource quality on competition between Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus and the resulting risk of dengue transmission.” Robertson’s research focuses on ecology and epidemiology, with an emphasis on modeling and control of vector-borne disease.

Upcoming webinar dates:

  • Wednesday, March 4, 2-3 p.m.: Dr. Sebastian Stockmaier, UT Knoxville
  • Wednesday, March 25, 3-4 p.m.: Dr. Veronica Ciocanel, Duke University

Click here for Zoom links, passwords and additional details.

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Career Connections will host the following professional development workshops in Fletcher Hall Room 109:

  • Thursday, Feb. 26, Career Fair Ready Workshop, get fully prepared for the career fair with a polished elevator pitch, networking strategies and practical tips to confidently approach employers, 10-11 a.m.
  • Wednesday, March 4, How to Follow Up After an Interview, master professional follow-up techniques, including how to write impactful thank-you emails, proper timing and what to say (and avoid) after your interview, 3-4 p.m.

Students interested in attending any of these sessions should email Megan Cales to register or learn more.

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The Center for Wellbeing offers a monthly lineup of training sessions for faculty and staff. If interested, please sign up here.

The Center is happy to schedule trainings for specific teams or departments at other times throughout the year. Reach out to Megan McKnight with questions or to request a training.

  • Thursday, Feb. 26: Opioid Overdose Response and Naloxone (Mocs Recovery Lounge at Stacy Town Center), 11 a.m.-noon
  • Friday, Feb. 27: Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for Faculty and Staff (Zoom), noon-1 p.m.

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Thinking about grad school? Bring your questions to the “Ask Us Anything!” Graduate School Virtual Q&A from 2-3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, via Zoom.

UTC Graduate School staff will share insider tips on programs, applications, funding and more, with time for live questions. Learn more at utc.edu/GradSchool.

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Dr. Rahul Soni, a postdoctoral researcher at Indiana University Bloomington, will present at the next Quantum Colloquium Series meeting at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Library Room 435. Attendees can expect a talk aligned with his recent research. View his publications on Google Scholar for more information. Visit the Quantum Colloquium Series website for event updates and additional details.

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The Probasco Chair of Free Enterprise will host Steve Forbes for a lecture titled “How Free Enterprise, Not Government, Made America Great” at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Fine Arts Center.

Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will explore the principles of economic freedom through the lens of some of the country’s most influential entrepreneurs. There will be time at the end for a Q&A, moderated by UTC Probasco Chair Claudia Kramer. Registration information is available here.

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“Drawing the Future from the Past,” an exhibition highlighting student work from UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program, will be on view through Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) Landis Education Gallery (30 Frazier Ave.).

The exhibition features projects from a two-semester capstone sequence in which students research historically significant buildings and develop adaptive reuse proposals informed by architectural, cultural and social context. Students collaborate with professional mentors, architects, historians, code officials and building owners, as well as community partner Preserve Chattanooga, to create design solutions that support preservation advocacy and potential community revitalization.

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The Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies department invites students, faculty and staff to celebrate Women’s History Month with the following events:

  • Tuesday, March 3: STEM panel, Metropolitan Building Room 231 (518 Oak St.), 12:30 p.m.
  • Friday, March 6: Glimmer and Shine art exhibit opening, Wavelength Gallery (854 McCallie Ave.), 5-8 p.m.
  • Wednesday, March 11: Keynote speaker Lisa Hendy, Guerry Center Reading Room, 6 p.m.
  • Friday, March 27: UTC Book Club discussion of “Lessons in Chemistry,” Library Room 440, 3 p.m.
  • Tuesday, March 31: UTC History Club Movie Night featuring “Hidden Figures,” Derthick Hall Room 101, 7 p.m.

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“Take Five 2026: Americans Abroad” invites the UTC campus and broader community to take part in a shared reading experience exploring what happens when Americans travel abroad—for both high and low adventure.

Upcoming selections and presenters include:

  • Tuesday, March 3: Will Kuby presents “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
  • Tuesday, March 24: Verbie Prevost presents “Daisy Miller” by Henry James
  • Tuesday, April 7: Bryan Hampton presents “The English Experience” by Julie Schumacher

All sessions take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evenings in the University Center Tennessee Room. A light dinner will be served. Books may be ordered through any online retailer or at the UTC Bookstore. Questions can be directed to Aaron Shaheen.

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What began as a grant-supported effort to address gaps in care for medically underserved communities has grown into one of the area’s most consistent forums for sharing practical, evidence-based approaches to inclusive care.

On Wednesday, March 4, the UTC College of Nursing will bring together health professionals, community partners and caregivers from across the region for the 10th annual Inclusive Care Conference—a daylong virtual conference focused on one of health care’s fastest-growing needs: caring for older adults.

The event, which will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET, is free and open to the public, with optional continuing education units available for a fee. Registration is available at utc.edu/nursing/conference.

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The UTC Department of Communication invites you to the 10th annual Photo Night on Wednesday, March 4, celebrating the power of visual storytelling and the photojournalists behind it.

A complimentary VIP reception will be held from 5-6 p.m. in the UTC Fine Arts Center. Guests can check in at the VIP table upon arrival. The main program will follow from 6-8 p.m. in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall and will feature a Q&A-style conversation with four distinguished photojournalists.

Founded by award-winning photojournalist and associate lecturer Billy Weeks, Photo Night also highlights work from Rising Rock, UTC’s student-powered storytelling lab.

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Graduate students are invited to unwind at “Thrive & Flourish: Mindfulness & Wellness Recharge” from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, in the Fletcher Hall fourth-floor lounge.

The event will feature a DIY aromatherapy bar, hot tea station and guided journal-making space designed to help students relax and reset. RSVP on MocSync to reserve a spot.

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The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies will host the next installment of its “What’s the Big Idea?” lunch discussion series from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Friday, March 6, in Lupton Hall Room 235.

Dr. Ian Dunkle will lead a conversation titled “Doing Wrong For Its Own Sake: Possible? Distinct? Sometimes Good?” Pizza and beverages will be served.

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The Institute for Contemporary Art presents “The Cupola Project,” an exhibition on view through Friday, March 6. Initiated in 2023 by artist and professor Martijn Van Wagtendonk as a sculpture assignment at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, the project has grown to engage more than 45 students and faculty from diverse disciplines.

Inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, “The Cupola Project” integrates engineering, science, language, music, philosophy and kinetic sculpture into a large-scale interactive structure. Constructed with mortise-and-tenon joints, the work has continued to evolve over recent years. Designed with portability in mind, Cupola functions like a mobile fairground attraction, easily assembled and disassembled to travel and engage audiences.

The ICA is free and open to the public from noon-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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UTC Innovations in Honors students are hosting a family-friendly music and dance event, “Dancing Through the Decades,” from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at the Carver Community Center. The event will serve as the introduction to an intergenerational mentorship program connecting teens, young adults and seniors in Chattanooga through S.T.E.A.M.-based engagement opportunities.

College-aged students are especially encouraged to attend to learn more about participating in the future program. Clubs, organizations and individual students interested in volunteer or community engagement opportunities can find more information here. Those who would simply like to attend are invited to join the celebration.

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Alum Fred Lemmons will return to campus to perform at the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall. Photo courtesy of Fred Lemmons.

A UTC music alumnus whose career includes 21 years with “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band will return to campus Sunday, March 8, for a 3 p.m. performance at the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall.

Master Gunnery Sergeant Fred Lemmons, USMC (Retired), a 1982 UTC graduate with a bachelor’s degree in music education, will be a featured soloist for “An Afternoon of Music” by the Mid-South Symphonic Band. Lemmons will perform “Introduction, Theme, and Variations” by Gioacchino Rossini, followed by an encore designed to surprise the audience. Click here for more information.

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Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to register for the UT Innovative Technologies Symposium, taking place Tuesday through Thursday, March 24-26, at the Knoxville Convention Center. Hosted by UT’s Office of Innovative Technologies, the three-day event will focus on everyday IT challenges, shared interests and emerging solutions while fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among higher education IT professionals across Tennessee.

The symposium will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions and networking opportunities with peers, industry experts and technology companies serving higher education. The event is open to all Tennessee higher education institutions; a $150 registration fee applies to non-UT attendees. Learn more and register here.

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UTC will host the 2026 meeting of the Tennessee Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers (TAAPT) on March 27-28, bringing high school teachers, university faculty and students to campus for a statewide conference. 

Organized by the UTC Department of Physics and Astronomy in collaboration with the UTC Quantum Center, the statewide meeting is designed to support physics educators through professional development, research exchange and networking opportunities. For more information and to register, visit the TAAPT website.

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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following students will be presenting their final works of research as advanced degree candidates. Everyone is invited to attend.

Campus Updates

2025 GOLD Excellence Award Winner Hallie DeHart (‘18) was recognized by Chancellor Lori Bruce and former Vice Chancellor of Advancement, Kim White.

Nominations are open for the UTC Alumni Awards, recognizing alumni who are exemplary in their fields, who champion UTC with their time and talents, and GOLD alumni making early strides in their careers. Nominations are open through Friday, Feb. 28; submit a nomination and learn more here.

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The Boyd Venture Challenge is an annual seed-funding competition open to undergraduate and graduate students across the UT System. Each spring, the challenge awards a total of $50,000 in non-dilutive startup capital, with individual grants of up to $25,000 to help student entrepreneurs move their businesses forward.

Eligible businesses must be legally established and structured as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC or corporation with a federal tax ID, and the student applicant must hold majority ownership. Applicants selected to pitch must demonstrate traction, such as revenue, customer or mentor recommendations, purchase orders, MOUs or participation in programs like iCore. Previous awardees may reapply but must show how prior funding advanced their business.

Applications open at 8 a.m. on Monday, March 2, and close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 3. Selected applicants will be invited to pitch their business plans in person. Click here to learn more about the 2025 winners and application details.

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UTC is gearing up for a summer full of camps for local K-12 students, with options ranging from quantum computing to sports clinics. Designed to keep students active and engaged, camps are led by UTC faculty, staff and athletics programs and offer opportunities for elementary, middle and high school students to explore new interests and sharpen skills. Click here to learn more.

  • Mocs Adventure Camp (K-8): Weekly sessions June 1-July 31; activities include climbing, swimming, sports and games; $320 per week.
  • Challenger Exploration Camp (rising 3rd-6th graders): July 6-31; space missions, coding, robotics, rocket launches and local excursions; $290.50 per week.
  • Quantum Summer Camp (rising 10th-12th graders): June 15-18; hands-on exploration of quantum computing and real-world problem-solving; $200.
  • Chattanooga Volleyball Camps (various ages): June and July sessions; costs vary.
  • Men’s Basketball Camps (ages 7-17): June 22-25 and July 20-23; $310.

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Safe@UTC, the new campus safety smartphone app, provides students, faculty and staff with direct access to safety resources. The app allows users to directly connect with the UTC Police via one-touch panic button functionality, anonymously report suspicious activity, initiate a remotely monitored Safe Walk, request a Safe Ride and quickly access other campus resources. The new app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.

Click here for video directions to the Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center, located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.

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College Days are happening now through Saturday, Feb. 28, giving students, faculty and staff—along with friends and family—the chance to visit the Tennessee Aquarium and see 45-minute IMAX Theater documentaries at half price.

The discount is available any day in February, but tickets must be purchased onsite at the Aquarium ticketing center. To receive the discount, present a school ID, transcript or paystub. The offer applies to everyone in the paying party and includes Aquarium admission and a 45-minute IMAX 3D documentary. Be sure to ask about special membership discounts as well.

Please note the Aquarium operates on timed entry and wait times may apply. Click here for pricing and additional details.

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Interested in UTC’s multidisciplinary Learning and Leadership (LEAD) doctoral programs Applications for the summer 2026 Ph.D. and Ed.D. cohorts will be accepted now through Friday, Feb. 27. Step-by-step application instructions and additional details, including FAQs, will be available on the LEAD program websites. For questions, email utclead@utc.edu.

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UTC’s Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science (CAGDS) has been selected as a finalist in the 2025 ArcGIS StoryMaps Competition, earning international recognition for an interactive mapping project that uses geospatial data science and artificial intelligence to guide where trees are planted across the city.

“Mapping Chattanooga’s Urban Forests,” a StoryMap created by GIS Director Charlie Mix, documents how UTC researchers, city leaders and nonprofit partners are using data to address urban heat and tree canopy loss. The public is invited to cast a vote for the Community Choice Award through Tuesday, March 10.

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The Humanities Program invites all UTC undergraduates to participate in the North Callahan Essay Prize competition. The prize is awarded annually to an undergraduate whose exceptionally fine essay addresses a subject related to the humanities, including art, music, philosophy, religion, rhetoric and literature, history, theater or interdisciplinary studies that combine these disciplines. Essays will be evaluated by an interdisciplinary committee of professors, and the winner will receive a $1,000 award. All essays must be submitted electronically to Dr. José-Luis Gastañaga by 5 p.m. on Monday, March 23. Learn more by clicking here.

Funding for the prize is provided by an endowment established by the late Dr. North Callahan, distinguished professor emeritus of history at New York University, author of 17 books and alumnus of the University of Chattanooga.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center is accepting proposals for the REACH Fund, a new seed-funding program supporting applied research that turns data into action for healthier communities. Selected projects may receive up to $25,000 to explore how social determinants of health influence outcomes in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, with applications due Monday, March 30. Applications are available here.

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The UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference will be held on Wednesday, April 15, in McKenzie Arena. The conference will showcase research and creative works by UTC undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff, with presentation formats including posters, arts displays and a limited number of oral presentations.

UTC faculty, staff and students are invited to present research or creative projects at the conference.

Additional ways to participate include:

Visit the conference website to view key dates, presenter guidelines, register a class visit or sign up to volunteer. Contact conference organizers for additional information.

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The Environmental Studies program is partnering with the SGA Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials to turn old glass into the new lobby floor of Oak Street Residence Hall.

UTC students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring empty, clean glass jars—such as teriyaki sauce, strawberry jam and pickle jars—to the bright yellow collection bins located at Stacy Town Center and the University Center Roundabout, directly across from the Esports Complex.

 All glass colors are accepted, with dark blue glass especially encouraged. Collection bins will be available from now through the start of spring break.

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UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement. Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions, and additional information will be shared with those who express interest.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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UTC is excited to host Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies to celebrate graduates’ achievements. The ceremony dates and times for each college are listed below.

  • Friday, May 8, College of Health, Education and Professional Studies…College of Nursing, 2:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 9, College of Arts and Sciences, 9 a.m.
  • Saturday, May 9,College of Engineering and Computer Science…Gary W. Rollins College of Business, 2 p.m.

All ceremonies will be combined undergraduate and graduate ceremonies.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

UTC Newsroom

Cadek Hall

Cadek (pronounced “CHAH-dek”) Hall was dedicated on March 26, 1961. As it was the first intentionally constructed University building devoted to the fine arts, the occasion was a milestone in UTC history. Until then, art and music classes were held in spaces in Founders Hall and the Patten House. With the opening of Cadek Hall, the University created over 20,000 square feet of space expressly for music, art, speech and dance instruction.

In his role as University archivist, UC Foundation Associate Professor Noah Lasley works to acquire, arrange and describe official UTC records and other valuable materials that document the University’s history and functions.

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Dr. Sean Richards

Dr. Sean Richards, a UC Foundation professor in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science at UTC, has spent the last 25 years conducting research on topics such as ecotoxicology and environmental health.

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Dr. Brandon Bouchillon

Dr. Brandon Bouchillon stepped into his new role as the West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs in the Department of Communication at UTC with a clear goal in mind. He arrived ready to build on his research exploring the future of communication and how the field continues to evolve.

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More than half of UTC’s residential students made the fall 2025 Dean’s List—2,026 students in total, representing 55% of those living on campus. The achievements were celebrated during the 36th annual Scholars in Residence ceremony.

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

  • UTC remembered 104 individuals whose lives impacted the University during the annual Blue and Gold Memorial service. The Blue and Gold Memorial is a University tradition that brings the campus together to pause and remember alumni, faculty, staff, retirees and students whose lives were connected to UTC.
  • Individuals and families face the stress of filing their taxes every year, some without much knowledge of resources for professional assistance. At UTC, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program helps relieve that burden while giving accounting students hands-on experience.
  • A love of fly fishing led senior Tyler Davis into freshwater ecology research—and to the Southeastern Fishes Council meeting, where he was one of four UTC undergraduates to present. Davis earned a student travel award, and fellow student Olivia Daugherty received Best Undergraduate Poster.
  • Congressman Chuck Fleischmann and UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce joined Chattanooga civic and industry leaders at Chattanooga City Hall to announce federal investments supporting key regional priorities today—including $3 million to launch a new translational research initiative at UTC.

WUTC

Bella Lam and Paul Jorgensen

Bella Lam, a rising country singer-songwriter and UTC music major, joined Paul Jorgensen on WUTC’s “Chord Drift” to talk about her show at Songbirds in Chattanooga. She also shared her brand-new single, “Take It Out On My Guitar.”
 

February 17-23, 2026

Updates and news for the week of February 17-23, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates  |  In the Media

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

UTC LAUNCHES NEW CAMPUS SAFETY SYSTEM

Safe@UTC, the new campus safety smartphone app, provides students, faculty and staff with direct access to safety resources. The app allows users to directly connect with the UTC Police via one-touch panic button functionality, anonymously report suspicious activity, initiate a remotely monitored Safe Walk, request a Safe Ride and quickly access other campus resources. The new app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

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UTC storymap selected as finalist in global ArcGIS competition

UTC’s Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science (CAGDS) has been selected as a finalist in the 2025 ArcGIS StoryMaps Competition, earning international recognition for an interactive mapping project that uses geospatial data science and artificial intelligence to guide where trees are planted across the city.

“Mapping Chattanooga’s Urban Forests,” a StoryMap created by GIS Director Charlie Mix, documents how UTC researchers, city leaders and nonprofit partners are using data to address urban heat and tree canopy loss. The public is invited to cast a vote for the Community Choice Award through March 10.

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FIRESIDE CHAT WITH DR. MATHEW KNOWLES

Dr. Mathew Knowles—former UTC basketball player, renowned music executive and father of global artists Beyoncé and Solange—will return to campus for a moderated fireside conversation at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall at the UTC Fine Arts Center (doors open at 5:30 p.m.).

Moderated by Vice Chancellor Stacy Lightfoot, the discussion will focus on leadership, entrepreneurship and health, with audience-submitted questions and brief closing remarks from Chancellor Lori Bruce.

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are available here. In addition to Friday’s event, Knowles will spend time with students, alumni and community partners throughout his visit, including recognition at the UTC men’s basketball game on Feb. 28.

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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER

It is again time to recruit campus partners to send in information for the UTC Parent and Family Association newsletter, a monthly roundup distributed to more than 5,400 parents and family members.

To share information with the families of UTC students—upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25. The February newsletter will be emailed to members Wednesday, March 4.

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Participate in the Spring Research and Arts Conference

The UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference will be held on Wednesday, April 15, in McKenzie Arena. The conference will showcase research and creative works by UTC undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff, with presentation formats including posters, arts displays and a limited number of oral presentations.

UTC faculty, staff and students are invited to present research or creative projects at the conference. The deadline to submit a project for presentation is 11 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22.

Additional ways to participate include:

Visit the conference website to view key dates, presenter guidelines, register a class visit or sign up to volunteer. Contact conference organizers for additional information.

Outstanding People of UTC

Dr. Hemangi Mavadiya teaches in UTC’s Master of Public Health Nutrition and Dietetics program.

Dr. Hemangi Mavadiya has been named Outstanding Dietetic Educator of the Year by the Chattanooga Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (CAND), a local professional organization affiliated with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The award recognizes excellence in teaching, mentorship and contributions to the preparation of future nutrition and dietetics professionals.

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Abby Clark (middle) standing with her mentors, Becky Dubose and Brittany Haynes, at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center.

A UTC student will walk in the footsteps of history and learn from today’s heroes after being awarded a Medal of Honor Teacher Fellowship. Abby Clark, a junior from Franklin, Tennessee, was selected as the first preservice teacher to receive a fellowship from the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center.

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Mocs spirit squads with their medals and trophy in Orlando.

The Chattanooga Mocs Cheerleaders and Sugar Mocs delivered a standout performance on the national stage last month, earning third place overall in the UCA/UDA College Open Spirit Game Day Division at the 2026 UCA/UDA College Nationals. Competing against nine Division I programs from across the country, the Mocs advanced to finals with a clean, high-energy preliminary routine in one of the nation’s most competitive collegiate spirit championships.

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Chad Camper (photo credit: Chattanooga Athletics)

Congratulations to women’s tennis head coach Chad Camper on earning his 100th career victory at UTC with a 6-1 win at Eastern Kentucky on Feb. 7. The Mocs are off to a 5-1 start in Camper’s 10th season with the Mocs.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • Director of Emergency Management Brett Fuchs discussed UTC’s new safety app, Safe@UTC, for the Times Free Press, News 12 Now, NewsChannel 9 and Local 3 News.
  • Dr. Louis (Dutch) Fayard, associate professor of accounting, did a Q&A about zero-based budgeting with WalletHub.
  • Coordinator of Career Engagement Megan Cales was featured by Teknovation.biz for her Brooks Band design, a wearable device to help individuals on the autism spectrum.
  • Dr. Jose Barbosa, professor in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, talked to NewsChannel 9 about Tennessee lawmakers’ push to establish a constitutional right to grow food at home.
  • Steve Ray, head of the Department of Theatre and artistic director of the UTC Theatre Co., joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss the upcoming UTC Theatre Co. musical “Alice by Heart.”
  • Randall Coleman, director of bands and head of the Department of Music, spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about the wind ensemble’s upcoming concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
  • School Psychology Program Director Amanda Hardin joined Jed & JR Mornings to talk about the Rural Assessment Intervention Library (RAIL).
  • Adolph S. Ochs Professor of Government Michelle Deardorff spoke to NewsChannel 9 about a proposed Tennessee bill.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: Ray Soldano/GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Thursday, Feb. 19: Women’s Basketball vs. Western Carolina, McKenzie Arena, 6 p.m.
  • Friday, Feb. 20: Softball vs. Cornell (Frost Classic), Frost Stadium, 3 p.m.
  • Friday, Feb. 20: Softball vs. Gardner-Webb (Frost Classic), Frost Stadium, 5:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 21: Softball vs. Cornell (Frost Classic), Frost Stadium, 1:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 21: Women’s Basketball vs. UNC Greensboro, McKenzie Arena, 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 21: Softball vs. UIC (Frost Classic), Frost Stadium, 4 p.m.
  • Sunday, Feb. 22: Softball vs. Gardner-Webb (Frost Classic), Frost Stadium, noon
  • Monday, Feb. 23: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. Rollins College of Business graduate programs offer flexible course options and exclusive career support resources designed to advance your education and career.

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

MAcc Information Sessions

MSM Information Sessions

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center will host a data summit from 9:30 a.m.-noon today (Feb. 17) in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.

The event will bring together faculty, students, community organization leaders and business partners to explore how data can help communities better understand and respond to everyday factors that influence health and well-being across Chattanooga and the surrounding region. Registration is available here.

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Dr. Xiunan Wang is organizing a Mathematical Biology Webinar Series as part of her NSF LEAPS-MPS program, supporting learning and engagement with mathematical modeling in biological systems. Hosted online, the series is open to undergraduate and graduate students, educators and others interested in the intersection of mathematics and biology, and features speakers from a range of institutions and career stages.

The upcoming webinar from 4-5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18, will feature Dr. Hao Wang, Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Mathematical Biosciences and professor at the University of Alberta, presenting “Stoichiometric Theory with its application in Methane Biogenesis.” Wang also serves as director of the Interdisciplinary Lab for Mathematical Ecology and Epidemiology (ILMEE) and leads a research team focused on ecological stoichiometry, disease transmission modeling and environmental systems.

Upcoming webinar dates:

  • Wednesday, Feb. 25, 4-5 p.m.: Dr. Suzanne Robertson, Virginia Commonwealth University
  • Wednesday, March 4, 2-3 p.m.: Dr. Sebastian Stockmaier, UT Knoxville
  • Wednesday, March 25, 3-4 p.m.: Dr. Veronica Ciocanel, Duke University

Click here for Zoom links, passwords and additional details.

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The Center for Wellbeing offers a monthly lineup of training sessions for faculty and staff. If interested, please sign up here. Trainings counting toward completion of the Mental Health Ally Program are noted with an asterisk (*).

The Center is happy to schedule trainings for specific teams or departments at other times throughout the year. Reach out to Megan McKnight with questions or to request a training.

  • *Thursday, Feb. 19: Psychological First Aid (Zoom), 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 26: Opioid Overdose Response and Naloxone (Mocs Recovery Lounge at Stacy Town Center), 11 a.m.-noon
  • Friday, Feb. 27: Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for Faculty and Staff (Zoom), noon-1 p.m.

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Information sessions are taking place for the Fall 2026 International Business Semester Abroad in Singapore, open to Rollins College of Business students. Participants will study at Singapore Management University (SMU), ranked among the top institutions globally for business and management, and choose from a wide range of courses in business, economics, social sciences and more—taught in English in small, interactive classes. The program runs from Aug. 13-Dec. 6, 2026.

Information sessions will be held:

  • Thursday, Feb. 19, 12:30 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109 and Zoom
  • Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109 and Zoom

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Career Connections will host the following professional development workshops in Fletcher Hall Room 109:

  • Thursday, Feb. 19, Resume Basics for Internship Applicants and Resume Refresh: Turning Class Projects into Experience, learn how to build or refresh your resume by turning class projects, group work and campus involvement into strong, internship-ready experience, 2-3 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 26, Career Fair Ready Workshop, get fully prepared for the career fair with a polished elevator pitch, networking strategies and practical tips to confidently approach employers, 10-11 a.m.
  • Wednesday, March 4, How to Follow Up After an Interview, master professional follow-up techniques, including how to write impactful thank-you emails, proper timing and what to say (and avoid) after your interview, 3-4 p.m.

Students interested in attending any of these sessions should email Megan Cales to register or learn more.

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The Innovations in Honors program is looking for currently enrolled students interested in joining the UTC Honors College in fall 2026. Students can learn more by attending an upcoming informational drop-in session in the Guerry Center Reading Room on the following dates:

  • Friday, Feb. 20, 11 a.m.-noon
  • Monday, Feb. 23, 3-4 p.m.

Students are encouraged to stop by to learn more about the program, ask questions, meet current students and review application requirements. For more information, contact program director Dr. Jordan King.

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The Chemistry Department’s seminar series continues with Medicinal Chemistry on Friday, Feb. 20, featuring Dr. David S. Lawrence, Fred Eshelman Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, Medicine and Pharmacy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His talk, “Light-Targeted Drug Delivery: Illuminating the Path from Concept to Clinical Launch,” will take place at 2:30 p.m. in Grote Hall Room 411.

The series will also include Radiochemistry with Dr. Dale Ensor on Friday, March 27, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in Grote Hall Room 411.

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Lionhearts Fitness will host a public screening of the 30-minute documentary “Lionhearts Movie” on Saturday, Feb. 21, in the UTC Auditorium. Screenings will take place at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., with the 2 p.m. showing followed by a Q&A session and meet-and-greet. The event is free and open to the public.

The film tells the story of Lionhearts Fitness, a youth-founded nonprofit centered on mentorship, community service, resilience and mental health awareness through sport and leadership. UTC student Luccketta co-founded the organization, which provides free OCR/Ninja-style fitness programming for youth. Produced by Chris Moreland of Build Something Media, the documentary highlights the impact of belonging, purpose and positive adult mentorship on young people and families.

The screening is part of Lionhearts Fitness’ community outreach initiative to expand awareness of the film and its mission while gathering audience feedback. Pre-registration is available here.

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Career Connections and the School of Education will host Teacher Recruitment Day from 10-11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, in the University Center Tennessee Room. Students are invited to network with more than 35 school districts and schools.

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As part of a weeklong celebration of recovery at UTC, students, faculty and staff are invited to a Recovery Block Party from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, on Vine Street. The event will feature recovery resources, therapy dogs, free coffee and popcorn, offering a chance to celebrate the many pathways students take toward wellness and the importance of campus spaces where they feel supported and encouraged.

“I’m Harper Bizzell and I’m a junior at UTC,” one student shared. “I have been going to the Mocs Recovery lounge on a regular basis for about a year now and it has made my day to day life better and much more manageable. I have struggled with addiction alone for many years and it’s been through Mocs Recovery where I have found a community that truly cares and supports me. I frequent support meetings like All Recovery and SMART every week and look forward to events that the lounge has going on. I truly love this place, it’s a big part of my life.”

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Scrappy’s Cupboard is open and operational for the spring semester and is now located in University Center Room 278. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. All UTC faculty, staff and students are welcome to visit. Patrons may use Scrappy’s Cupboard once per month, no questions asked.

The next Scrappy’s Markets will take place from 2-4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, on the second floor of the University Center. Upcoming spring markets will be held from 2-4 p.m. in the University Center on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, March 11
  • Tuesday, March 24
  • Wednesday, April 8
  • Tuesday, April 21

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Annie Mitchell as Alice and Teagan Bartz as Alfred star in the UTC Theatre Co.’s upcoming production of “Alice by Heart.” Photo courtesy of UTC Theatre Co.

A story of imagination forged under pressure takes the stage later this month when “Alice by Heart,” a musical set against the backdrop of the London Blitz during World War II, comes to the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre. 

Performed by the UTC Theatre Co., “Alice by Heart” runs at 7:30 p.m. from Feb. 24-28, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Feb. 28. 

Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office—in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $20 for students (with proof of student ID) and seniors. 

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The Turtle Island Quartet

The Grammy Award-winning Turtle Island Quartet will perform Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall as part of the UTC Live! concert series. 

Founded in 1985, the Turtle Island Quartet is widely recognized for redefining the possibilities of the classical string quartet by blending classical technique with contemporary American musical styles. The ensemble has earned Grammy Awards for Best Classical Crossover Album and has built an international reputation for performances that draw from jazz, folk, bluegrass, Latin, rock, funk and improvisational traditions. 

Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. performance can be purchased online and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office. 

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UC Foundation Associate Professor Saeid Golkar will present “Protest, Repression, & Human Rights in Iran: What the Current Uprisings Reveal About the Regime’s Future” from noon-1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, in Derthick Hall Room 201. Sponsored by the Department of Political Science and Public Service, the talk will examine how Iran’s current protest cycle sheds light on state repression, security institutions and human rights implications, as well as what these dynamics suggest about the regime’s future. The event is free and open to the public.

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Dr. Rahul Soni, a postdoctoral researcher at Indiana University Bloomington, will present at the next Quantum Colloquium Series meeting at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Library Room 435. Attendees can expect a talk aligned with his recent research. View his publications on Google Scholar for more information. Visit the Quantum Colloquium Series website for event updates and additional details.

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The Probasco Chair of Free Enterprise will host Steve Forbes for a lecture titled “How Free Enterprise, Not Government, Made America Great” at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Fine Arts Center.

Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will explore the principles of economic freedom through the lens of some of the country’s most influential entrepreneurs. There will be time at the end for a Q&A, moderated by UTC Probasco Chair Claudia Kramer. Registration information is available here.

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“Drawing the Future from the Past,” an exhibition highlighting student work from UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program, will be on view through Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) Landis Education Gallery (30 Frazier Ave.).

The exhibition features projects from a two-semester capstone sequence in which students research historically significant buildings and develop adaptive reuse proposals informed by architectural, cultural and social context. Students collaborate with professional mentors, architects, historians, code officials and building owners, as well as community partner Preserve Chattanooga, to create design solutions that support preservation advocacy and potential community revitalization.

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“Take Five 2026: Americans Abroad” invites the UTC campus and broader community to take part in a shared reading experience exploring what happens when Americans travel abroad—for both high and low adventure.

Upcoming selections and presenters include:

  • Tuesday, March 3: Will Kuby presents “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
  • Tuesday, March 24: Verbie Prevost presents “Daisy Miller” by Henry James
  • Tuesday, April 7: Bryan Hampton presents “The English Experience” by Julie Schumacher

All sessions take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evenings in the University Center Tennessee Room. A light dinner will be served. Books may be ordered through any online retailer or at the UTC Bookstore. Questions can be directed to Aaron Shaheen.

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The Institute for Contemporary Art presents “The Cupola Project,” an exhibition on view through Friday, March 6. Initiated in 2023 by artist and professor Martijn Van Wagtendonk as a sculpture assignment at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, the project has grown to engage more than 45 students and faculty from diverse disciplines.

Inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, “The Cupola Project” integrates engineering, science, language, music, philosophy and kinetic sculpture into a large-scale interactive structure. Constructed with mortise-and-tenon joints, the work has continued to evolve over recent years. Designed with portability in mind, Cupola functions like a mobile fairground attraction, easily assembled and disassembled to travel and engage audiences.

The ICA is free and open to the public from noon-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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UTC Innovations in Honors students are hosting a family-friendly music and dance event, “Dancing Through the Decades,” from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at the Carver Community Center. The event will serve as the introduction to an intergenerational mentorship program connecting teens, young adults and seniors in Chattanooga through S.T.E.A.M.-based engagement opportunities.

College-aged students are especially encouraged to attend to learn more about participating in the future program. Clubs, organizations and individual students interested in volunteer or community engagement opportunities can find more information here. Those who would simply like to attend are invited to join the celebration.

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Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to register for the UT Innovative Technologies Symposium, taking place Tuesday through Thursday, March 24-26, at the Knoxville Convention Center. Hosted by UT’s Office of Innovative Technologies, the three-day event will focus on everyday IT challenges, shared interests and emerging solutions while fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among higher education IT professionals across Tennessee.

The symposium will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions and networking opportunities with peers, industry experts and technology companies serving higher education. The event is open to all Tennessee higher education institutions; a $150 registration fee applies to non-UT attendees. Learn more and register here.

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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following students will be presenting their final works of research as advanced degree candidates. Everyone is invited to attend.

Welcome to UTC

The following employees joined UTC in January:

  • Brandon Bouchillon – Professor, Department of Communication
  • Annaka Mary Clement – Assistant Professor, Sedimentology, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science
  • Laura Lutgen-Nieves – Assistant Professor, Department of Social, Cultural and Justice Studies
  • James Purdon – Assistant Professor, Department of Social, Cultural and Justice Studies
  • DeShawn Fairbairn – Assistant Professor of Practice, Physical Therapy
  • Heather Renee Delancett – Budget Manager, College of Engineering and Computer Science Dean’s Office
  • Brittney Elizabeth Sparn – Communications and Marketing Creative Strategist, College of Engineering and Computer Science Dean’s Office
  • Sarah Elizabeth Capps – Academic Advisor I, College of Arts and Sciences Student Success Center
  • Brandon K. Williams – Research Integrity Compliance Officer, Office of Research Integrity
  • Jennifer Wood – Academic Advisor, Gary W. Rollins College of Business
  • Courtney Elizabeth Herrell – Police Dispatcher I, Police and Emergency Services
  • Austin James Lee – Police Dispatcher I, Police and Emergency Services
  • Sarah Moore – Nurse, University Health and Wellness
  • Jessica Lyon Faircloth – Outreach Counselor, Counseling Center
  • Baylee Reece Caldwell – Communications Coordinator, UC Foundation
  • Brynn Munro – Director of Undergraduate Admissions, Recruitment
  • Shianne Tirado – Assistant Teacher, Children’s Center Little Miss Mag
  • Kara Gentry Newton – Accounting Assistant III, Health and Human Performance
  • Brooke Lauer – LDA Pre-Health Advisor, College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Office

Campus Updates

National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDA) Week, from Feb. 23-March 1, is a time to raise awareness, challenge myths and promote hope and recovery around eating disorders. On a college campus—where stress and body image pressures can feel constant—creating space for compassion, balance and support matters.

This week, consider small ways to support your well-being and the well-being of others: honor nourishment to fuel your energy and focus; practice compassionate self-talk; use body-respectful language; curate body-inclusive digital spaces; move in ways that feel joyful and sustainable; check in with friends; and challenge messages rooted in diet culture.

Remember: You are enough—exactly as you are.

Support is available through the UTC Counseling Center and Focus Treatment Center, and additional resources can be found at nationaleatingdisorders.org.

Join campus events:

  • Tuesday, Feb. 24: Nourish and Flourish Tabling, Vine St.
  • Wednesday, Feb. 25: Fueling Bodies, Feeding Minds, Wolford Family Athletic Center

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2025 GOLD Excellence Award Winner Hallie DeHart (‘18) was recognized by Chancellor Lori Bruce and former Vice Chancellor of Advancement, Kim White.

Nominations are open for the UTC Alumni Awards, recognizing alumni who are exemplary in their fields, who champion UTC with their time and talents, and GOLD alumni making early strides in their careers. Nominations are open through Friday, Feb. 28; submit a nomination and learn more here.

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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.

Click here for video directions to the Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center, located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.

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Scrappy’s Cupboard is currently in critical need of paper products and can always use shelf-stable food donations. Clothing donations are not being accepted at this time.

If you’d like to lend a hand, volunteers are always welcome and greatly appreciated. Click here to sign up.

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College Days are happening now through Saturday, Feb. 28, giving students, faculty and staff—along with friends and family—the chance to visit the Tennessee Aquarium and see 45-minute IMAX Theater documentaries at half price.

The discount is available any day in February, but tickets must be purchased onsite at the Aquarium ticketing center. To receive the discount, present a school ID, transcript or paystub. The offer applies to everyone in the paying party and includes Aquarium admission and a 45-minute IMAX 3D documentary. Be sure to ask about special membership discounts as well.

Please note the Aquarium operates on timed entry and wait times may apply. Click here for pricing and additional details.

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Campus employees are invited to attend a training session on the DASH Budget vs. Actuals Dashboard from 2-3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19. The session will provide an overview of how to use the dashboard to review budget and actuals data and better understand financial activity.

Participants will learn how to view budget and actuals data at the account level, apply filters for Chart of Accounts segments and gain a clearer financial overview to support informed decision-making. The training is informational and open to all campus employees. No registration is required.

The session link is available on the FDI Training webpage. Additional information can be found on the Friends of DASH webpage under “DASH … Did You Know?”

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UTC Athletics invites cancer survivors and those currently battling cancer to be recognized during women’s basketball’s annual Cancer Awareness game at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19. Those interested in participating are asked to contact Laura Herron.

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Interested in UTC’s multidisciplinary Learning and Leadership (LEAD) doctoral programs?Applications for the summer 2026 Ph.D. and Ed.D. cohorts will be accepted now through Friday, Feb. 27. Step-by-step application instructions and additional details, including FAQs, will be available on the LEAD program websites. For questions, email utclead@utc.edu.

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The Humanities Program invites all UTC undergraduates to participate in the North Callahan Essay Prize competition. The prize is awarded annually to an undergraduate whose exceptionally fine essay addresses a subject related to the humanities, including art, music, philosophy, religion, rhetoric and literature, history, theater or interdisciplinary studies that combine these disciplines. Essays will be evaluated by an interdisciplinary committee of professors, and the winner will receive a $1,000 award. All essays must be submitted electronically to Dr. José-Luis Gastañaga by 5 p.m. on Monday, March 23. Learn more by clicking here.

Funding for the prize is provided by an endowment established by the late Dr. North Callahan, distinguished professor emeritus of history at New York University, author of 17 books and alumnus of the University of Chattanooga.

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The Environmental Studies program is partnering with the SGA Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials to turn old glass into the new lobby floor of Oak Street Residence Hall.

UTC students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring empty, clean glass jars—such as teriyaki sauce, strawberry jam and pickle jars—to the bright yellow collection bins located at Stacy Town Center and the University Center Roundabout, directly across from the Esports Complex.

 All glass colors are accepted, with dark blue glass especially encouraged. Collection bins will be available from now through the start of spring break.

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UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement. Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions, and additional information will be shared with those who express interest.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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The Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority (CARTA) operates a free shuttle that serves downtown, the North Shore, St. Elmo and the Incline Railway. The current route was developed in the early 1990s and, aside from the recent addition of the North Shore Express, has remained largely unchanged.

CARTA is now reimagining its shuttle routes and service and is seeking community input. Whether you are a daily shuttle user or have never hopped on for a ride, CARTA wants to hear from you. An interactive map allows participants to drag and drop pins to share ideas, thoughts and suggestions for improving shuttle service. A short survey, which takes about five minutes to complete, is also available through the map.

Community members are encouraged to take the survey and share it with friends, family and co-workers. This is an opportunity to help improve how the shuttle benefits residents, businesses and visitors across the community. Click here for the interactive map and survey.

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The Office of Research Integrity has announced a new go-live date for DASH Research IRB: Monday, Feb. 16. After this date, all new IRB applications must be submitted through the DASH Research IRB module.

For questions or assistance, contact Baley Whary at irb@utc.edu or 423-425-5867.

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UTC is excited to host Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies to celebrate graduates’ achievements. The ceremony dates and times for each college are listed below.

  • Friday, May 8, College of Health, Education and Professional Studies…College of Nursing, 2:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 9, College of Arts and Sciences, 9 a.m.
  • Saturday, May 9,College of Engineering and Computer Science…Gary W. Rollins College of Business, 2 p.m.

All ceremonies will be combined undergraduate and graduate ceremonies.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center is accepting proposals for the REACH Fund, a new seed-funding program supporting applied research that turns data into action for healthier communities. Selected projects may receive up to $25,000 to explore how social determinants of health influence outcomes in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, with applications due Monday, March 30. Applications are available here.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

UTC Newsroom

Professor JW Bruce and Chancellor Lori Bruce

UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce and Professor of Engineering JW Bruce—sometimes referred to as “Mr. and Mrs. Dr. Bruce”—began their lives together long before the titles and honorifics. This Valentine’s Day, they circled back to where it all began: seated across from each other in an electrical engineering lab.

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Michael Johnson

Michael Johnson, a former athlete who played five sports in high school, is the assistant director of sports programs and summer camps at UTC, oversees club sports, intramural sports, day-to-day operations, equipment rentals and Mocs Adventure Camp—UTC’s summer youth camp for kids in kindergarten through eighth grade. He shared the many ways students, staff and faculty can get involved in campus recreation at UTC. 

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U.S. Poet Laureate Natasha Trethewey visits with UTC Honors College students in the Guerry Center Reading Room. Photo by Clara Paulson.

Two-term U.S. Poet Laureate and Pulitzer Prize winner Natasha Trethewey met with the UTC Honors College students for a two-hour talk. The conversation examined history, her upbringing, personal loss and the craft of writing poetry.

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Tim Downey

UTC welcomed alum and CEO of Southern Land Company Tim Downey back to campus. Downey served as the keynote speaker at the annual Real Estate Luncheon hosted by the student-run UTC Real Estate Club.

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Jackie Morgan, keynote speaker from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, gave a presentation on the career opportunities in economics and finance.

At the Empower Your Future event, UTC professors from the Department of Finance and Economics in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business aimed to give high school students a better understanding of the industry.

WUTC

Janet Rehberg

Janet Rehberg, who was named EPB’s president and CEO last fall after joining the utility in a role focused on emerging technologies, stopped by the WUTC studio for an episode of “Scenic Roots.”
 

February 10-16, 2026

Updates and news for the week of February 10-16, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

UTC LAUNCHES NEW CAMPUS SAFETY SYSTEM

Safe@UTC, the new campus safety smartphone app, provides students, faculty and staff with direct access to safety resources. The app allows users to directly connect with the UTC Police via one-touch panic button functionality, anonymously report suspicious activity, initiate a remotely monitored Safe Walk, request a Safe Ride, and quickly access other campus resources. The new app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

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Participate in the Spring Research and Arts Conference

The UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference will be held on Wednesday, April 15, in McKenzie Arena. The conference will showcase research and creative works by UTC undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff, with presentation formats including posters, arts displays and a limited number of oral presentations.

UTC faculty, staff and students are invited to present research or creative projects at the conference. The deadline to submit a project for presentation is 11 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22.

Additional ways to participate include:

Visit the conference website to view key dates, presenter guidelines, register a class visit or sign up to volunteer. Contact conference organizers for additional information.

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Spring 2026 Commencement Dates

UTC is excited to host Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies to celebrate graduates’ achievements. The ceremony dates and times for each college are listed below.

  • Friday, May 8, College of Health, Education and Professional Studies…College of Nursing, 2:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 9, College of Arts and Sciences, 9 a.m.
  • Saturday, May 9,College of Engineering and Computer Science…Gary W. Rollins College of Business, 2 p.m.

All ceremonies will be combined undergraduate and graduate ceremonies.

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HOSTING A SUMMER CAMP AT UTC? WE WANT TO HELP SPREAD THE WORD

Each summer, UTC opens its campus to the community through a wide range of camps for K–12 students—from science and athletics to leadership development and college prep. These hands-on programs keep students engaged while school is out and give families access to university-level experiences right here on campus.

Most camps are open to the public and serve elementary, middle and high school students, offering full-day activity camps, weeklong academic programs and skill-building clinics.

Feature writer Carter Graham is gathering information for a combined summer camp website story/external press release. If you’re hosting a camp, please send details to carter-h-graham@utc.edu by Wednesday, Feb. 11, so he can include as many programs as possible in the announcement.

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EXPANDED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE ON CAMPUS

The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.

Click here for video directions to the Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center, located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.

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UTC reports record spring enrollment

UTC has recorded an unofficial spring 2026 enrollment of 11,085 students, marking the first time in University history that spring enrollment has exceeded 11,000.

Outstanding People of UTC

Congratulations to UTC faculty and staff who received awards or submitted proposals for sponsored programs in January. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs announced that faculty and staff attracted $715,210 in external grant and contract awards during the month and submitted proposals for the potential to generate over $2,448,486 in external funding, if awarded.

Among those receiving awards in January were members of the Center for Urban Informatics and Progress team:

  • Dr. Mina Sartipi, Austin Harris, Dr. Seyedmehdi Khaleghian and Dr. Huu Hoang Nguyen (CUIP) have received $18,002 from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the project titled “End-to-End Data Architecture and Analytics Pipeline for Safe and Adaptive Autonomous Vehicles.”
  • Austin Harris, Dr. Mina Sartipi, Dr. Mohamed Fadul and Yasir Hassan (CUIP) have received $10,000 from the University of Tennessee Research Foundation for the project titled “Network-V2X Enabled Cloud-Based Digital Twin.”

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Dr. Murat Barisik

For the third time over the past year, a research paper co-authored by UTC Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Murat Barisik has been featured on the cover of an international journal. Barisik is a co-author of the cover article in Nanomaterials, a journal focused on materials science research.

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Dr. Howard Wall

Since coming to UTC in 2024, Dr. Howard Wall—director and chief economist of the UTC Center for Regional Economic Research—has gained insight into the Chattanooga community through his research.

His primary focus is on the local economy and how decisions impact the regional landscape. His main research interests are applied econometrics and the intersection of macroeconomics and regional economics.

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The Clarence E. Harris Chair of Excellence in Entrepreneurship in UTC’s Gary W. Rollins College of Business announced recipients for the third year of Mocs Innovate: The Harris Chair Seed Fund for Innovation, a mini-grant program supporting inventive research and entrepreneurial ideas with commercialization potential. This year’s awards recognize faculty and staff projects ranging from wearable technology and artificial intelligence to drone systems and urban logistics, with grants of up to $4,000 supporting early-stage innovation on campus.

  • Megan Cales (Gary W. Rollins College of Business) – Upgrading the Brooks Band wearable to include a clip-on microphone to enhance voice capture.
  • Medhi Khaleghian (Center for Urban Informatics and Progress) – Developing a multi-spectral drone system to enhance urban infrastructure and agricultural intelligence.
  • Shahnewazkarim Sakib (Computer Science, College of Engineering and Computer Science) – Creating an AI system for course design and accreditation management.
  • Maged Shoman (Center for Urban Informatics and Progress) – Designing a platform to predict grocery demand and support short-range autonomous delivery robots.
  • Weidong Wu (Civil & Chemical Engineering) – Building a crash-free web interface for statistical analysis and report generation.

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photo credit: Chattanooga Athletics

Frank Reed earned his 800th win as head coach of the Mocs softball team.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • Clarence E. Harris Chair of Excellence in Entrepreneurship Tom Lyons joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss the MOCS Innovate! mini-grant awardees.
  • Director of Special Collections Carolyn Runyon talked to Jed & JR Mornings to discuss the personal papers of the late Dr. Tommie Brown, which were donated to UTC Special Collections in 2024.
  • Age-Friendly Program Director Stephanie Blayne joined Jed & JR Mornings to explain how churches can help their elderly members and the College of Nursing’s Age Friendly Congregation Certificate Program.
  • Assistant Professor of History Mark Johnson spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about his book, “American Bacon: The History of a Food Phenomenon.”

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: Ray Soldano/GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Friday, Feb. 13: Men’s Tennis vs. Kennesaw State, UTC Tennis Center, 1 p.m.
  • Friday, Feb. 13: Softball vs. Bellarmine (Chattanooga Challenge), Frost Stadium, 3 p.m.
  • Friday, Feb. 13: Softball vs. Ohio (Chattanooga Challenge), Frost Stadium, 5:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 14: Women’s Basketball vs. ETSU, McKenzie Arena, 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 14: Softball vs. Ohio (Chattanooga Challenge), Frost Stadium, 3 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 14: Men’s Basketball vs. Western Carolina, McKenzie Arena, 4:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 14: Softball vs. Canisius (Chattanooga Challenge), Frost Stadium, 5:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, Feb. 15: Softball vs. Canisius (Chattanooga Challenge), Frost Stadium, 11 a.m.
  • Sunday, Feb. 15: Women’s Tennis vs. Tennessee State, UTC Tennis Center, 1 p.m.
  • Sunday, Feb. 15: Softball vs. Middle Tennessee (Chattanooga Challenge), Frost Stadium, 1:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, Feb. 15: Men’s Tennis vs. Tennessee State, UTC Tennis Center, 2 p.m.
  • Sunday, Feb. 15: Wrestling vs. Appalachian State, Maclellan Gym, 2 p.m.
  • Monday, Feb. 16: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. Rollins College of Business graduate programs offer flexible course options and exclusive career support resources designed to advance your education and career.

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

MAcc Information Sessions

MSM Information Sessions

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Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope

“From Curiosity to Courtrooms,” a real-world look at forensic accounting will take place at 5 p.m. today (Feb. 10) in the University Center Auditorium.

Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope will share her unconventional career journey at the intersection of accounting, ethics, storytelling and investigation. The talk offers an engaging and practical look at how accounting can be used to protect organizations and the public and may be of interest to those exploring career paths, interested in ethics or drawn to real-world investigative work. Registration information is available here.

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“Take Five 2026: Americans Abroad” invites the UTC campus and broader community to take part in a shared reading experience exploring what happens when Americans travel abroad—for both high and low adventure.

Upcoming selections and presenters include:

  • Today (Feb. 10): Sybil Baker presents “The Sheltering Sky” by Paul Bowles
  • Tuesday, March 3: Will Kuby presents “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
  • Tuesday, March 24: Verbie Prevost presents “Daisy Miller” by Henry James
  • Tuesday, April 7: Bryan Hampton presents “The English Experience” by Julie Schumacher

All sessions take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evenings in the University Center Tennessee Room. A light dinner will be served. Books may be ordered through any online retailer or at the UTC Bookstore. Questions can be directed to Aaron Shaheen.

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Students are invited to the All Majors Job and Internship Fair from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The fair offers opportunities to explore internships, part-time and full-time jobs, and volunteer roles while connecting with employers from a range of industries. Contact Career Connections with questions.

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Scrappy’s Cupboard is open and operational for the spring semester and is now located in University Center Room 278. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. All UTC faculty, staff and students are welcome to visit. Patrons may use Scrappy’s Cupboard once per month, no questions asked.

The next Scrappy’s Markets will take place from 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, on the second floor of the University Center. Upcoming spring markets will be held from 2-4 p.m. in the University Center on the following dates:

  • Tuesday, Feb. 24
  • Wednesday, March 11
  • Tuesday, March 24
  • Wednesday, April 8
  • Tuesday, April 21

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Dr. Xiunan Wang is organizing a Mathematical Biology Webinar Series as part of her NSF LEAPS-MPS program, supporting learning and engagement with mathematical modeling in biological systems. Hosted online, the series is open to undergraduate and graduate students, educators and others interested in the intersection of mathematics and biology, and features speakers from a range of institutions and career stages.

Next up in the series is Dr. Briana Abrahms, associate professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Washington, who will present “Bears in Bathtubs: How Behavior and Life History Shape Predator Responses to Global Change” from 4-5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11. The talk will explore how animal behavior and life history influence predator responses to global change. Click here for the Zoom link.

Upcoming webinar dates:

  • Wednesday, Feb. 18, 4-5 p.m.: Dr. Hao Wang, University of Alberta
  • Wednesday, Feb. 25, 4-5 p.m.: Dr. Suzanne Robertson, Virginia Commonwealth University
  • Wednesday, March 4, 2-3 p.m.: Dr. Sebastian Stockmaier, UT Knoxville
  • Wednesday, March 25, 3-4 p.m.: Dr. Veronica Ciocanel, Duke University

Click here for Zoom links, passwords and additional details.

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The Innovations in Honors program is looking for currently enrolled students interested in joining the UTC Honors College in fall 2026. Students can learn more by attending an upcoming informational drop-in session in the Guerry Center Reading Room on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2-3 p.m.
  • Friday, Feb. 20, 11 a.m.-noon
  • Monday, Feb. 23, 3-4 p.m.

Students are encouraged to stop by to learn more about the program, ask questions, meet current students and review application requirements. For more information, contact program director Dr. Jordan King.

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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting a celebration for Darwin Day from 2-4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, in the Lupton Hall First Floor Lobby. Join to celebrate Darwin’s birthday with cake and a scavenger hunt. Meet and mingle with BGE faculty showcasing their teaching, research and service.

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Michael A. Brown, of the University of Memphis Department of Chemistry, will present “Make No Bones About It: The Importance of Establishing the Baseline Chemical Composition of Skeletal Remains for Post-mortem Interval Estimation” from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, in Grote Hall Room 411. The talk is hosted by Keenan Dungey and is part of the Chemistry Department’s seminar series.

Additional upcoming seminars include Medicinal Chemistry with Dr. David Lawrence on Friday, Feb. 20, and Radiochemistry with Dr. Dale Ensor on Friday, March 27.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center will host a data summit from 9:30 a.m.-noon on Tuesday, Feb. 17, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.

The event will bring together faculty, students, community organization leaders and business partners to explore how data can help communities better understand and respond to everyday factors that influence health and well-being across Chattanooga and the surrounding region. Registration is available here.

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The Center for Wellbeing offers a monthly lineup of training sessions for faculty and staff. If interested, please sign up here. Trainings counting toward completion of the Mental Health Ally Program are noted with an asterisk (*).

The Center is happy to schedule trainings for specific teams or departments at other times throughout the year. Reach out to Megan McKnight with questions or to request a training.

  • *Thursday, Feb. 19: Psychological First Aid (Zoom), 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 26: Opioid Overdose Response and Naloxone (Mocs Recovery Lounge at Stacy Town Center), 11 a.m.-noon
  • Friday, Feb. 27: Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for Faculty and Staff (Zoom), noon-1 p.m.

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A story of imagination forged under pressure takes the stage later this month when “Alice by Heart,” a musical set against the backdrop of the London Blitz during World War II, comes to the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre. 

Performed by the UTC Theatre Co., “Alice by Heart” runs at 7:30 p.m. from Feb. 24-28, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Feb. 28. 

Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office—in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $20 for students (with proof of student ID) and seniors. 

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The Turtle Island Quartet

The Grammy Award-winning Turtle Island Quartet will perform Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall as part of the UTC Live! concert series. 

Founded in 1985, the Turtle Island Quartet is widely recognized for redefining the possibilities of the classical string quartet by blending classical technique with contemporary American musical styles. The ensemble has earned Grammy Awards for Best Classical Crossover Album and has built an international reputation for performances that draw from jazz, folk, bluegrass, Latin, rock, funk and improvisational traditions. 

Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. performance can be purchased online and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office. 

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UC Foundation Associate Professor Saeid Golkar will present “Protest, Repression, & Human Rights in Iran: What the Current Uprisings Reveal About the Regime’s Future” from noon-1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, in Derthick Hall Room 201. Sponsored by the Department of Political Science and Public Service, the talk will examine how Iran’s current protest cycle sheds light on state repression, security institutions and human rights implications, as well as what these dynamics suggest about the regime’s future. The event is free and open to the public.

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The Probasco Chair of Free Enterprise will host Steve Forbes for a lecture titled “How Free Enterprise, Not Government, Made America Great” at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Fine Arts Center.

Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will explore the principles of economic freedom through the lens of some of the country’s most influential entrepreneurs. There will be time at the end for a Q&A, moderated by UTC Probasco Chair Claudia Kramer. Registration information is available here.

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“Drawing the Future from the Past,” an exhibition highlighting student work from UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program, will be on view through Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) Landis Education Gallery (30 Frazier Ave.).

The exhibition features projects from a two-semester capstone sequence in which students research historically significant buildings and develop adaptive reuse proposals informed by architectural, cultural and social context. Students collaborate with professional mentors, architects, historians, code officials and building owners, as well as community partner Preserve Chattanooga, to create design solutions that support preservation advocacy and potential community revitalization.

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The Institute for Contemporary Art presents “The Cupola Project,” an exhibition on view through Friday, March 6. Initiated in 2023 by artist and professor Martijn Van Wagtendonk as a sculpture assignment at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, the project has grown to engage more than 45 students and faculty from diverse disciplines.

Inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, “The Cupola Project” integrates engineering, science, language, music, philosophy and kinetic sculpture into a large-scale interactive structure. Constructed with mortise-and-tenon joints, the work has continued to evolve over recent years. Designed with portability in mind, Cupola functions like a mobile fairground attraction, easily assembled and disassembled to travel and engage audiences.

The ICA is free and open to the public from noon-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following student will be presenting final works of research as an advanced degree candidate. Everyone is invited to attend.

Campus Updates

2025 GOLD Excellence Award Winner Hallie DeHart (‘18) was recognized by Chancellor Lori Bruce and former Vice Chancellor of Advancement, Kim White.

Nominations are open for the UTC Alumni Awards, recognizing alumni who are exemplary in their fields, who champion UTC with their time and talents, and GOLD alumni making early strides in their careers. Nominations are open through Friday, Feb. 28; submit a nomination and learn more here.

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UTC Athletics invites cancer survivors and those currently battling cancer to be recognized during women’s basketball’s annual Cancer Awareness game at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19. Those interested in participating are asked to contact Laura Herron.

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Interested in UTC’s multidisciplinary Learning and Leadership (LEAD) doctoral programs?Applications for the summer 2026 Ph.D. and Ed.D. cohorts will be accepted now through Friday, Feb. 27. Step-by-step application instructions and additional details, including FAQs, will be available on the LEAD program websites. For questions, email utclead@utc.edu.

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The Environmental Studies program is partnering with the SGA Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials to turn old glass into the new lobby floor of Oak Street Residence Hall.

UTC students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring empty, clean glass jars—such as teriyaki sauce, strawberry jam and pickle jars—to the bright yellow collection bins located at Stacy Town Center and the University Center Roundabout, directly across from the Esports Complex.

 All glass colors are accepted, with dark blue glass especially encouraged. Collection bins will be available from now through the start of spring break.

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UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement. Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions, and additional information will be shared with those who express interest.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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The UT Alliance of Women Philanthropists is accepting applications from UT faculty, staff, departments and student organizations for the 2026-27 Giving Circle Grants Cycle to support projects that challenge conventional approaches and inspire new solutions to pressing needs.

Proposals may request support for a new project or program that benefits the campus or an expansion of an existing program. Grant requests may range from $2,500–$25,000 and may not include general operating expenses, including faculty salaries. Applications include a cover sheet, a two-page proposal narrative and a one-page detailed budget. Full instructions and a list of past recipients are available on the Circle of Giving website.

Proposals must be submitted for routing in Cayuse SP by Friday, Feb. 20, to be eligible for consideration. ORSP will submit final approved proposals to AWP by Friday, Feb. 27, with awards expected to be announced by Monday, March 30.

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The Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority (CARTA) operates a free shuttle that serves downtown, the North Shore, St. Elmo and the Incline Railway. The current route was developed in the early 1990s and, aside from the recent addition of the North Shore Express, has remained largely unchanged.

CARTA is now reimagining its shuttle routes and service and is seeking community input. Whether you are a daily shuttle user or have never hopped on for a ride, CARTA wants to hear from you. An interactive map allows participants to drag and drop pins to share ideas, thoughts and suggestions for improving shuttle service. A short survey, which takes about five minutes to complete, is also available through the map.

Community members are encouraged to take the survey and share it with friends, family and co-workers. This is an opportunity to help improve how the shuttle benefits residents, businesses and visitors across the community. Click here for the interactive map and survey.

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The Office of Research Integrity has announced a new go-live date for DASH Research IRB: Monday, Feb. 16. After this date, all new IRB applications must be submitted through the DASH Research IRB module.

For questions or assistance, contact Baley Whary at irb@utc.edu or 423-425-5867.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center is accepting proposals for the REACH Fund, a new seed-funding program supporting applied research that turns data into action for healthier communities. Selected projects may receive up to $25,000 to explore how social determinants of health influence outcomes in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, with applications due Monday, March 30. Applications are available here.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

UTC Newsroom

A recent simulation collaboration paired UTC Doctor of Nursing Practice students and Erlanger nursing residents at the start of bedside practice, giving both groups space to step into unfamiliar roles and work through clinical decisions in a controlled environment.

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Bestselling authors like Mark Twain, Sinclair Lewis and Theodore Dreiser portray the American Midwest as what Dr. Marcia Noe, a professor of English at UTC, describes as “full of nice, honest, wholesome people.” Her newest book titled, “The Innocent Midwest: Culture, Region, and Identity, 1793-1930,” however, dissects a history of the region that is much darker.

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Age-Friendly Congregation Certificate team members Rev. Dr. Richard Gentzler, left, and UTC’s Kristi Wick and Stephanie Blaine.

The College of Nursing is partnering with ENCORE Ministry Foundation to launch a new Age-Friendly Congregation Certificate program designed to help faith communities and individuals better support older adults through intentional, practical action.

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

  • University students often discover that some of the study habits they formed years ago in high school or at the beginning of college do not work as well as they used to. Forming good study habits is an essential way students find success.
  • UTC has entered into a new early assurance agreement with Morehouse School of Medicine, creating a new pathway to medical school for UTC pre-health students that prioritizes affordability and early support. The agreement allows eligible UTC students to apply directly to Morehouse through its Early Commitment Program, an admissions option designed to give students earlier clarity without limiting their ability to participate in the traditional medical school application cycle.

WUTC

Jermaine Freeman and Cheryl Montgomery

Jermaine Freeman and Cheryl Montgomery

Executive Director of Economic and Workforce Development Jermaine Freeman and Chief of Staff Cheryl Montgomery joined episodes of Scenic Roots to discuss their new roles at UTC.
 

February 3-9, 2026

Updates and news for the week of February 3-9, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

HOSTING A SUMMER CAMP AT UTC? WE WANT TO HELP SPREAD THE WORD

Each summer, UTC opens its campus to the community through a wide range of camps for K–12 students—from science and athletics to leadership development and college prep. These hands-on programs keep students engaged while school is out and give families access to university-level experiences right here on campus.

Most camps are open to the public and serve elementary, middle and high school students, offering full-day activity camps, weeklong academic programs and skill-building clinics.

Feature writer Carter Graham is gathering information for a combined summer camp website story/external press release. If you’re hosting a camp, please send details to carter-h-graham@utc.edu by Wednesday, Feb. 11, so he can include as many programs as possible in the announcement.

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EXPANDED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE ON CAMPUS

The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.

Services are available in person at UC Foundation, Suite 5217. To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.

For video directions to the center, click Directions to Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center.

Outstanding People of UTC

A rower moves across the Tennessee River in a photograph by Clara Paulson, submitted to the Hearst Awards.

Two UTC communication students placed nationally in the 2025 Hearst Awards for their work as communicators and storytellers.

Clara Paulson, a junior Brock Scholar in the UTC Honors College majoring in communication, placed 12th nationally in the Hearst Photo One competition. Emily Mitchell, who graduated in fall 2025 with a communication degree and a minor in rhetoric and professional writing, placed 13th nationally in the Hearst Multimedia Visual Storytelling Competition.

Mitchell’s story, “Carriage Chronicles,” featured a video component that explored Chattanooga’s iconic horse-drawn carriages. Paulson entered a six-photograph portfolio featuring photos she has taken during her time at UTC.

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Dr. Amy Brock-Hon

At UTC, research is always happening. Across campus, faculty in their respective fields are expanding the limits of their expertise by discovering new knowledge, better understanding the world and developing innovative solutions to problems.

For Dr. Amy Brock-Hon, Robert Lake Wilson Professor of Geology, the past 15 years in the UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science have been a time to explore her passion and deepen her understanding of the field.

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Novice Teacher of the Year honorees (from left) Reagan Lowrie, Lauren Cardenas and Madisson Mantooth.

Novice Teacher of the Year honorees (from left) Reagan Lowrie, Lauren Cardenas and Madisson Mantooth.

Three recent UTC School of Education graduates are being recognized early in their careers for the influence they are already making in Tennessee classrooms. Lauren Cardenas, Reagan Lowrie and Madisson Mantooth have each been named Novice Teacher of the Year recipients in their respective school districts, an honor that recognizes full-time teachers in their first three years in the classroom who demonstrate excellence in instruction, professionalism and student engagement.

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West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs Brandon Bouchillon was published in ScienceDirect’s Telematics and Informatics journal for his research on group texting and how it contributes to emotional well-being and life satisfaction.

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The Center for Academic Support and Advisement (CASA) has earned Level 2 certification from the College Reading and Learning Association for its peer educator training programs, recognizing CASA’s work in meeting rigorous standards for peer educator selection, training and evaluation. Certified programs include:

  • Peer Academic Coaching–Teresa Harrison, academic coaching program coordinator

  • Peer Tutoring–Brad Bond, assistant director of academic support

  • Supplemental Instruction–Jenny Wells, SI coordinator

CASA is located in the UTC Library, Suite 335. For more information, contact academicsupport@utc.edu.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • Chief of Staff Cheryl Montgomery was featured in Edge Magazine.
  • Clarence T. Jones Observatory Director Steven Kline joined an episode of Jed & JR Mornings to discuss the observatory and its weekly “Star Parties.”
  • Bill Floyd, resident space educator in the Challenger STEM Learning Center, spoke to WVLT 8 in Knoxville about remembering the Challenger explosion 40 years later.
  • Associate Athletics Director of Digital Media Services Leah Gill was featured by Sports Video Group for serving as a chair for the 2026 SVG College Summit.
  • UC Foundation Associate Professor Chris Acuff spoke to the Times Free Press about Chattanooga tripling the number of employees making six figures.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: GoMocs.com

Photo credit: GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Thursday, Feb. 5: Men’s Basketball vs. Mercer, McKenzie Arena, 7 p.m.
  • Friday, Feb. 6: Men’s Tennis vs. Gardner-Webb, UTC Tennis Center, 1 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 7: Men’s Basketball vs. The Citadel, McKenzie Arena, 2 p.m.
  • Monday, Feb. 9: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.

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Career Connections and the Department of Criminal Justice will host the Criminal Justice Expo from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. today (Feb. 3) in the University Center Tennessee Room. Students are invited to come network with over 20 justice-related organizations.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. Rollins College of Business graduate programs offer flexible course options and exclusive career support resources designed to advance your education and career.

MAcc Information Sessions

MSM Information Sessions

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

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Students are invited to the “Reaching Employers: Email & LinkedIn Strategies” workshop from 2-3 p.m. today (Feb. 3) in Fletcher Hall 210. The session will cover cold emailing, LinkedIn outreach, follow-up strategies and how to stay professional and persistent when connecting with employers. Register online and direct questions to Megan Cales.

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Join an Orientation Leader interest meeting to learn more about the role, responsibilities and impact you can make in welcoming new students to campus. This meeting is a great opportunity to ask questions and find out if the position is right for you. If you are interested but unable to attend, please email Katelynn Buchanan.

  • Today (Feb. 3), Zoom, 3 p.m.
The Orientation Leader application is now open in MocSync, and will close on Friday, Feb. 6.

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The Center for Wellbeing offers a monthly lineup of training sessions for faculty and staff. If interested, please sign up here. Trainings counting toward completion of the Mental Health Ally Program are noted with an asterisk (*).

The Center is happy to schedule trainings for specific teams or departments at other times throughout the year. Reach out to Megan McKnight with questions or to request a training.

  • *Wednesday, Feb. 4: Suicide Prevention Using Question, Persuade, Refer and the C-SSRS (Zoom), 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
  • *Thursday, Feb. 19: Psychological First Aid (Zoom), 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 26: Opioid Overdose Response and Naloxone (Mocs Recovery Lounge at Stacy Town Center), 11 a.m.-noon
  • Friday, Feb. 27: Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for Faculty and Staff (Zoom), noon-1 p.m.

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Interested in UTC’s multidisciplinary Learning and Leadership (LEAD) doctoral programs? Join the last virtual information session at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 4, hosted by Dr. Elizabeth Crawford, LEAD programs advisor, and Dr. David Rausch, LEAD programs director.

Applications for the summer 2026 Ph.D. and Ed.D. cohorts will be accepted now through Friday, Feb. 27. Step-by-step application instructions and additional details, including FAQs, will be available on the LEAD program websites. For questions, email utclead@utc.edu.

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Graduate students are invited to a virtual workshop, “Financial Fitness: Practical Financial Wellness Tips for Grad Students,” from noon-1 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, via Zoom. Led by UTC’s Financial Wellness Center, the session will cover budgeting, managing expenses and building healthy financial habits.

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The Innovations in Honors program is seeking currently enrolled students interested in joining the UTC Honors College in fall 2026. Students can learn more by registering for a virtual information session, held via Zoom from 1-2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5.

The program offers opportunities to develop key skills and enrich the academic experience through hands-on learning, including courses such as Innovation Lab, where students collaborate with partners from the city of Chattanooga to design and implement projects that address community challenges.

Additional benefits of admission to the UTC Honors College include a $2,000 annual scholarship (for up to three years, depending on completed credits at the time of admission), potential housing in the honors residential community, an out-of-state tuition waiver, priority registration, small class sizes and support for research and travel opportunities.

Students are encouraged to register for a virtual information session or contact Dr. Jordan King, program director, for more information.

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Natasha Trethewey

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and two-term U.S. Poet Laureate Natasha Trethewey will deliver a free, public lecture titled “The Role of the Humanities in Our Personal and Civic Lives” at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The event will include a lecture by Trethewey, readings from her work, a question-and-answer session and a book signing. Books will be available for purchase at the lecture through Barnes & Noble.

The lecture is sponsored by The Lyndhurst Foundation, the UTC Honors College O’Dea Lecture Series, the UTC Division of Access and Engagement, The Keese Lecture Series and the UTC Department of English.

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Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope

“From Curiosity to Courtrooms,” a real-world look at forensic accounting will take place at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10, in the University Center Auditorium.

Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope will share her unconventional career journey at the intersection of accounting, ethics, storytelling and investigation. The talk offers an engaging and practical look at how accounting can be used to protect organizations and the public and may be of interest to those exploring career paths, interested in ethics or drawn to real-world investigative work. Registration information is available here.

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“Take Five 2026: Americans Abroad” invites the UTC campus and broader community to take part in a shared reading experience exploring what happens when Americans travel abroad—for both high and low adventure.

Upcoming selections and presenters include:

  • Tuesday, Feb. 10: Sybil Baker presents “The Sheltering Sky” by Paul Bowles
  • Tuesday, March 3: Will Kuby presents “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
  • Tuesday, March 24: Verbie Prevost presents “Daisy Miller” by Henry James
  • Tuesday, April 7: Bryan Hampton presents “The English Experience” by Julie Schumacher

All sessions take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evenings in the University Center Tennessee Room. A light dinner will be served. Books may be ordered through any online retailer or at the UTC Bookstore. Questions can be directed to Aaron Shaheen.

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Students are invited to the All Majors Job and Internship Fair from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The fair offers opportunities to explore internships, part-time and full-time jobs, and volunteer roles while connecting with employers from a range of industries. Contact Career Connections with questions.

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Scrappy’s Cupboard is open and operational for the spring semester and is now located in University Center Room 278. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. All UTC faculty, staff and students are welcome to visit. Patrons may use Scrappy’s Cupboard once per month, no questions asked.

The next Scrappy’s Markets will take place from 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, on the second floor of the University Center. Upcoming spring markets will be held from 2-4 p.m. in the University Center on the following dates:

  • Tuesday, Feb. 24
  • Wednesday, March 11
  • Tuesday, March 24
  • Wednesday, April 8
  • Tuesday, April 21

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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting a celebration for Darwin Day from 2-4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, in the Lupton Hall First Floor Lobby. Join to celebrate Darwin’s birthday with cake and a scavenger hunt. Meet and mingle with BGE faculty showcasing their teaching, research and service.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center will host a data summit from 9:30 a.m.-noon on Tuesday, Feb. 17, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.

The event will bring together faculty, students, community organization leaders and business partners to explore how data can help communities better understand and respond to everyday factors that influence health and well-being across Chattanooga and the surrounding region. Registration is available here.

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The Probasco Chair of Free Enterprise will host Steve Forbes for a lecture titled “How Free Enterprise, Not Government, Made America Great” at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Fine Arts Center.

Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will explore the principles of economic freedom through the lens of some of the country’s most influential entrepreneurs. There will be time at the end for a Q&A, moderated by UTC Probasco Chair Claudia Kramer. Registration information is available here.

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“Drawing the Future from the Past,” an exhibition highlighting student work from UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program, will be on view through Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) Landis Education Gallery (30 Frazier Ave.).

The exhibition features projects from a two-semester capstone sequence in which students research historically significant buildings and develop adaptive reuse proposals informed by architectural, cultural and social context. Students collaborate with professional mentors, architects, historians, code officials and building owners, as well as community partner Preserve Chattanooga, to create design solutions that support preservation advocacy and potential community revitalization.

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The Institute for Contemporary Art presents “The Cupola Project,” an exhibition on view through Friday, March 6. Initiated in 2023 by artist and professor Martijn Van Wagtendonk as a sculpture assignment at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, the project has grown to engage more than 45 students and faculty from diverse disciplines.

Inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, “The Cupola Project” integrates engineering, science, language, music, philosophy and kinetic sculpture into a large-scale interactive structure. Constructed with mortise-and-tenon joints, the work has continued to evolve over recent years. Designed with portability in mind, Cupola functions like a mobile fairground attraction, easily assembled and disassembled to travel and engage audiences.

The ICA is free and open to the public from noon-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following student will be presenting final works of research as an advanced degree candidate. Everyone is invited to attend.

Welcome to UTC

The following employees joined UTC in December:

  • Patrick Thomas Mashburn – Manager of Marketing and Communications, Gary W. Rollins College of Business
  • Jermaine Freeman – Executive Director of Economic and Workforce Development, Chancellor’s Office
  • Michael Terrance Warren – Accounting Specialist, Bursar’s Office
  • Abigail Marie Sites – Administrative Assistant, Disability Resource Center
  • Katie Robinson – Assistant Teacher, Children’s Center Brown Academy
  • Moses Acquah – LDA Postdoctoral Position – Smart Energy Systems, College of Engineering and Computer Science
  • Jeffrey C. Sundean – Director, Project Management, Facilities
  • Lauren Surmann – Director of Creative Services, Division of Communications and Marketing
  • Nadia D. Burris – Assistant Teacher, Children’s Center Brown Academy

Campus Updates

February often puts the spotlight on romantic relationships, but it is also an ideal time to focus on self-love and healthy connections of all kinds. Between classes, work, friendships and social pressure, it is easy to put your own needs last—but healthy relationships start with knowing your worth, setting boundaries and communicating openly.

Friendships play a huge role in our well-being, especially in college, and healthy ones should feel supportive, respectful and safe. Take time this month to notice which relationships—romantic or platonic—energize you and which ones drain you, and give yourself permission to prioritize rest, balance and emotional safety.

Practicing self-love—such as saying no without guilt, asking for help and choosing habits that support your mental and physical health—can help you build stronger connections with others and a healthier relationship with yourself, now and beyond your time at UTC. For additional resources related to relationships, the Center for Wellbeing offers education on creating and sustaining healthy connections. For more information, contact Karey Daniel.

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UTC Athletics invites cancer survivors and those currently battling cancer to be recognized during women’s basketball’s annual Cancer Awareness game at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19. Those interested in participating are asked to contact Laura Herron.

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The Environmental Studies program is partnering with the SGA Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials to turn old glass into the new lobby floor of Oak Street Residence Hall.

UTC students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring empty, clean glass jars—such as teriyaki sauce, strawberry jam and pickle jars—to the bright yellow collection bins located at Stacy Town Center and the University Center Roundabout, directly across from the Esports Complex.

 All glass colors are accepted, with dark blue glass especially encouraged. Collection bins will be available from now through the start of spring break.

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UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement. Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions, and additional information will be shared with those who express interest.

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Faculty are invited to join the Faculty Writing Collective, which meets from 9:30 a.m.-noon on Fridays during the academic year in the UTC Library. This is a writing accountability group that includes a brief goal setting exercise, two hours of quiet writing time and a check-in at the end of the session.

The UTC Faculty Writing Collective’s goal is to support faculty who face structural, cultural and institutional barriers to writing by fostering a supportive community grounded in accountability, care and equity. Faculty are encouraged to carve out dedicated writing or research time this Friday and enjoy a pastry while they work. To join the email list, contact Emma McDonell.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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The UT Alliance of Women Philanthropists is accepting applications from UT faculty, staff, departments and student organizations for the 2026-27 Giving Circle Grants Cycle to support projects that challenge conventional approaches and inspire new solutions to pressing needs.

Proposals may request support for a new project or program that benefits the campus or an expansion of an existing program. Grant requests may range from $2,500–$25,000 and may not include general operating expenses, including faculty salaries. Applications include a cover sheet, a two-page proposal narrative and a one-page detailed budget. Full instructions and a list of past recipients are available on the Circle of Giving website.

Those planning to apply should notify Todd Moore-Doman by today (Feb. 3) so ORSP can assist with budget preparation and application materials. Proposals must be submitted for routing in Cayuse SP by Friday, Feb. 20, to be eligible for consideration. ORSP will submit final approved proposals to AWP by Friday, Feb. 27, with awards expected to be announced by Monday, March 30.

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The Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority (CARTA) operates a free shuttle that serves downtown, the North Shore, St. Elmo and the Incline Railway. The current route was developed in the early 1990s and, aside from the recent addition of the North Shore Express, has remained largely unchanged.

CARTA is now reimagining its shuttle routes and service and is seeking community input. Whether you are a daily shuttle user or have never hopped on for a ride, CARTA wants to hear from you. An interactive map allows participants to drag and drop pins to share ideas, thoughts and suggestions for improving shuttle service. A short survey, which takes about five minutes to complete, is also available through the map.

Community members are encouraged to take the survey and share it with friends, family and co-workers. This is an opportunity to help improve how the shuttle benefits residents, businesses and visitors across the community. Click here for the interactive map and survey.

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The Office of Research Integrity has announced a new go-live date for DASH Research IRB: Monday, Feb. 16. After this date, all new IRB applications must be submitted through the DASH Research IRB module.

For questions or assistance, contact Baley Whary at irb@utc.edu or 423-425-5867.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center is accepting proposals for the REACH Fund, a new seed-funding program supporting applied research that turns data into action for healthier communities. Selected projects may receive up to $25,000 to explore how social determinants of health influence outcomes in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, with applications due Monday, March 30. Applications are available here.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

UTC Newsroom

Brielyn Hallam (right)

Brielyn Hallam has chemistry in her blood. Growing up with two chemists as parents made it a natural fit when she was considering colleges, but her own experience helped her choose a specific field.

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Chandler Mason

Chandler Mason, a senior finance major and Rollins Scholar in UTC’s Gary W. Rollins College of Business, used internships, student leadership in the SMILE Fund and hands-on coursework to prepare for entrepreneurship. Along the way, he discovered a passion for data organization and coding—skills he’s now applying as he works toward launching his own startup.

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Dr. June Scobee Rodgers

Dr. June Scobee Rodgers

UTC will always remain closely linked to the space shuttle Challenger, which exploded 40 years ago on Jan. 28, 1986. Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, the widow of Challenger Commander Francis R. “Dick” Scobee, serves as founding chair of Challenger Center, a STEM-education nonprofit organization.

While there was no UTC representation on board the shuttle, its memory lives on at the UTC Challenger STEM Learning Center, which was the first center to be located on a University campus.

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

  • Christine Macias and Douglas Wilson aren’t new to being newcomers. In fall 2025, they entered the first cohort of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at UTC, a concentration within the Doctor of Nursing Practice program.
  • When the Chattanooga area prepares for possible inclement weather, UTC reminds students, faculty and staff to stay informed and prioritize safety. Brett Fuchs, director of emergency management, threat assessment, emergency communications and safety, and the University’s public information officer, shared how UTC monitors weather conditions, communicates with the campus community and prepares for hazards like black ice. 

WUTC

Tom Griscom and Linda Moss Mines

This summer, the Chattanooga-Hamilton County History Experience will open at Broad and Third streets, featuring original films, interactive exhibits and student storytelling focused on local history. Through a partnership with Dynamo Studios, Hamilton County public school students will work alongside professional filmmakers, with insights from volunteer advisors John Edwards, Linda Moss Mines and Tom Griscom. The launch was explored during a recent episode of WUTC’s Scenic Roots.
 

January 27-February 2, 2026

Updates and news for the week of January 27-February 2, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

HOSTING A SUMMER CAMP AT UTC? WE WANT TO HELP SPREAD THE WORD

Each summer, UTC opens its campus to the community through a wide range of camps for K–12 students—from science and athletics to leadership development and college prep. These hands-on programs keep students engaged while school is out and give families access to university-level experiences right here on campus.

Most camps are open to the public and serve elementary, middle and high school students, offering full-day activity camps, weeklong academic programs and skill-building clinics.

Feature writer Carter Graham is gathering information for a combined summer camp website story/external press release. If you’re hosting a camp, please send details to carter-h-graham@utc.com by Wednesday, Feb. 11, so he can include as many programs as possible in the announcement.

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UTC wind ensemble to perform at Carnegie Hall

UTC Wind Ensemble

The UTC Wind Ensemble has been invited to perform a full concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City on Wednesday, March 18, an invitation that marks a milestone opportunity for student musicians to perform on one of the world’s most iconic stages.

The concert will feature 59 student performers from across the University, including 24 music majors and 35 students majoring in other academic areas.

The cost of the trip is approximately $2,000 per student. To help offset expenses, the UTC Division of Advancement has established a dedicated giving link at give.utc.edu/carnegie, with donations supporting student travel through the UTC Music Fund.

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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER

It is again time to recruit campus partners to send in information for the UTC Parent and Family Association newsletter, a monthly roundup distributed to more than 5,400 parents and family members.

To share information with the families of UTC students—upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 28. The February newsletter will be emailed to members Wednesday, Feb. 4.

Outstanding People of UTC

Betsy Myers (left) and Brandalyn Shropshire

Dr. Betsy Myers (left photo) and Brandalyn Shropshire were presented engraved plaques from Southern Conference Commissioner Michael Cross (photos by Ray Soldano).

Dr. Betsy Myers and Brandalyn Shropshire, who were named to the 2025–26 All-Southern Conference Faculty and Staff Team, were presented with engraved plaques during last Wednesday’s Mocs men’s basketball game. The conference-wide recognition highlights one faculty member and one staff member from each SoCon institution whose work has made a measurable impact on their campus.

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The Clarence E. Harris Chair of Excellence in Entrepreneurship in UTC’s Gary W. Rollins College of Business announced recipients for the third year of Mocs Innovate: The Harris Chair Seed Fund for Innovation, a mini-grant program supporting inventive research and entrepreneurial ideas with commercialization potential. This year’s awards recognize faculty and staff projects ranging from wearable technology and artificial intelligence to drone systems and urban logistics, with grants of up to $4,000 supporting early-stage innovation on campus.

  • Megan Cales (Gary W. Rollins College of Business) – Upgrading the Brooks Band wearable to include a clip-on microphone to enhance voice capture.
  • Medhi Khaleghian (Center for Urban Informatics and Progress) – Developing a multi-spectral drone system to enhance urban infrastructure and agricultural intelligence.
  • Shahnewazkarim Sakib (Computer Science, College of Engineering and Computer Science) – Creating an AI system for course design and accreditation management.
  • Maged Shoman (Center for Urban Informatics and Progress) – Designing a platform to predict grocery demand and support short-range autonomous delivery robots.
  • Weidong Wu (Civil & Chemical Engineering) – Building a crash-free web interface for statistical analysis and report generation.

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Dr. Amanda Hardin shows off resources available to rural school districts in the RAIL Library.

In its first 3½ months of operation, the RAIL System, led by Department of School Psychology Program Director Amanda Hardin, served 19 school districts across Tennessee and provided access to 186 assessment tools and related resources—saving participating districts more than $22,000 in costs they would otherwise have incurred purchasing the materials themselves.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • UTC Chief of Police Sean O’Brien and Director of Public Safety Brett Fuchs talked to NewsChannel 9 about mandatory active shooter training for faculty and staff.
  • UC Foundation Professor Sean Richards spoke to NewsChannel 9 about fast fashion and how it affects textile waste and ocean microplastics.
  • Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall spoke to the Times Free Press, NewsChannel 9 and the Local 3 News about Chattanooga job growth.
  • Coordinator of Career Engagement Megan Cales joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss the Brooks Band, a wearable wristband that gives children with autism or other neurodiverse traits gentle, real-time feedback when their voices get too loud.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: Ray Soldano/GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Thursday, Jan. 29: Men’s Basketball vs. Wofford, McKenzie Arena, 6 p.m.
  • Friday, Jan. 30: Women’s Basketball vs. Mercer, McKenzie Arena, 6 p.m.
  • Friday, Jan. 30: Women’s Tennis vs. Georgia State, UTC Tennis Center, 6:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, Jan. 31: Wrestling vs. The Citadel, Maclellan Gym, 7 p.m.
  • Sunday, Feb. 1: Women’s Basketball vs. Samford, McKenzie Arena, 2 p.m.
  • Monday, Feb. 2: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.

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The Center for Wellbeing offers a monthly line-up of trainings for faculty and staff. If interested, please sign up here. Trainings counting toward completion of the Mental Health Ally Program are noted with an asterisk (*).

The Center is happy to schedule trainings for specific teams or departments at other times throughout the year. Reach out to Megan McKnight with questions or to request a training.

  • Today (Jan. 27): Opioid Overdose Response and Naloxone (Mocs Recovery Lounge at Stacy Town Center), 12:30-1:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Jan. 28: Sleep Matters: Improving Sleep Among Employees and Students (Zoom), 10-11 a.m.
  • *Wednesday, Feb. 4: Suicide Prevention Using Question, Persuade, Refer and the C-SSRS (Zoom), 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
  • *Thursday, Feb. 19: Psychological First Aid (Zoom), 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 26: Opioid Overdose Response and Naloxone (Mocs Recovery Lounge at Stacy Town Center), 11 a.m.-noon
  • Friday, Feb. 27: Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for Faculty and Staff (Zoom), noon-1 p.m.

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Eddie Brudney, professor of history at UTC, will lead a discussion titled “Historians React to Current Events: Policeman of the Americas? Understanding U.S. Intervention in Venezuela” from 2-3 p.m. today (Jan. 27) in Holt Hall Room 229.

The talk, sponsored by the Department of History and UTC History Club, will place recent U.S. military action in Venezuela in historical context, exploring how past American interventions in the region help explain the significance and potential consequences of current events.

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Scrappy’s Cupboard is open and operational for the spring semester and is now located in University Center Room 278. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. All UTC faculty, staff and students are welcome to visit. Patrons may use Scrappy’s Cupboard once per month, no questions asked.

Scrappy’s Markets also return this spring. The next market will take place from 2-4 p.m. today (Jan. 27) on the second floor of the University Center. All spring markets will be held 2-4 p.m. in the University Center on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, Feb. 11
  • Tuesday, Feb. 24
  • Wednesday, March 11
  • Tuesday, March 24
  • Wednesday, April 8
  • Tuesday, April 21

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Students are invited to the “Paid Internships and Employer Research” workshop from noon-1 p.m. today (Jan. 27) in Fletcher Hall Room 211. The workshop will walk students through strategies for finding paid internships and researching employers, with tips on identifying quality opportunities and making informed application decisions. Click here to register.

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UTC staff are invited to take part in a conversation focused on building a stronger campus community from 2-4 p.m. today (Jan. 27) in the UC Auditorium and via Zoom. Free snacks and beverages will be provided. Click here to learn more.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center is accepting proposals for the REACH Fund, a new seed-funding program supporting applied research that turns data into action for healthier communities. Selected projects may receive up to $25,000 to explore how social determinants of health influence outcomes in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, with applications due Monday, March 30. Applications are available here.

Faculty and researchers can learn more during a Zoom info session from 2-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 28. Questions can be directed to Shelley-Kay@utc.edu.

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Join an Orientation Leader interest meeting to learn more about the role, responsibilities and impact you can make in welcoming new students to campus. This meeting is a great opportunity to ask questions and find out if the position is right for you.

  • Wednesday, Jan. 28, Admissions Tour Room (2nd floor of the University Center), 3 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 29, Admissions Tour Room (2nd floor of the University Center), 3 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Feb. 3, Zoom, 3 p.m.

If you are interested but unable to attend any of these interest meetings, please email Katelynn Buchanan.

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The Innovations in Honors program is seeking currently enrolled students interested in joining the UTC Honors College in fall 2026. Students can learn more by registering for a virtual information session, held via Zoom on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, Jan. 28, 6-7 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 5, 1-2 p.m.

The program offers opportunities to develop key skills and enrich the academic experience through hands-on learning, including courses such as Innovation Lab, where students collaborate with partners from the city of Chattanooga to design and implement projects that address community challenges.

Additional benefits of admission to the UTC Honors College include a $2,000 annual scholarship (for up to three years, depending on completed credits at the time of admission), potential housing in the honors residential community, an out-of-state tuition waiver, priority registration, small class sizes and support for research and travel opportunities.

Students are encouraged to register for a virtual information session or contact Dr. Jordan King, program director, for more information.

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Dr. Shikha Bangar, lecturer in physics at UTC, will present “Teaching Noisy Qubits New Tricks: Quantum Machine Learning Algorithms for Near-Term Devices” from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29, in UTC Library Room 435.

Bangar will discuss the current state of quantum machine learning and how researchers are designing learning models that work with noisy, near-term quantum hardware. Her talk will focus on continuous-variable quantum systems and explore how physically motivated algorithm design can enable meaningful learning tasks on today’s quantum computers.

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Career Connections will host the “Nacho Everyday Career Workshop: Secrets Hiring Managers Don’t Tell You” from noon-1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, in the University Center Room 127. Local employers will share career fair tips and hiring insights—plus nachos—with speakers Rachel Frizzel from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and Samantha Thompson from Erlanger Hospital.

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Career Connections and the Department of Criminal Justice will host the Criminal Justice Expo from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 3, in the University Center Tennessee Room. Students are invited to come network with over 20 justice-related organizations.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. Rollins College of Business graduate programs offer flexible course options and exclusive career support resources designed to advance your education and career.

MAcc Information Sessions

MSM Information Sessions

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

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Students are invited to the “Reaching Employers: Email & LinkedIn Strategies” workshop from 2-3 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 3, in Fletcher Hall 210. The session will cover cold emailing, LinkedIn outreach, follow-up strategies and how to stay professional and persistent when connecting with employers. Register online and direct questions to Megan Cales.

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Graduate students are invited to a virtual workshop, “Financial Fitness: Practical Financial Wellness Tips for Grad Students,” from noon-1 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, via Zoom. Led by UTC’s Financial Wellness Center, the session will cover budgeting, managing expenses and building healthy financial habits.

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Natasha Trethewey

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and two-term U.S. Poet Laureate Natasha Trethewey will deliver a free, public lecture titled “The Role of the Humanities in Our Personal and Civic Lives” at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The event will include a lecture by Trethewey, readings from her work, a question-and-answer session and a book signing. Books will be available for purchase at the lecture through Barnes & Noble.

The lecture is sponsored by The Lyndhurst Foundation, the UTC Honors College O’Dea Lecture Series, the UTC Division of Access and Engagement, The Keese Lecture Series and the UTC Department of English.

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Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope

“From Curiosity to Courtrooms,” a real-world look at forensic accounting will take place at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, in the University Center Auditorium.

Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope will share her unconventional career journey at the intersection of accounting, ethics, storytelling and investigation. The talk offers an engaging and practical look at how accounting can be used to protect organizations and the public and may be of interest to those exploring career paths, interested in ethics or drawn to real-world investigative work. Registration information is available here.

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“Take Five 2026: Americans Abroad” returns in January, inviting the UTC campus and broader community to take part in a shared reading experience exploring what happens when Americans travel abroad—for both high and low adventure.

This year’s selections and presenters include:

  • Tuesday, Feb. 10: Sybil Baker presents “The Sheltering Sky” by Paul Bowles
  • Tuesday, March 3: Will Kuby presents “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
  • Tuesday, March 24: Verbie Prevost presents “Daisy Miller” by Henry James
  • Tuesday, April 7: Bryan Hampton presents “The English Experience” by Julie Schumacher

All sessions take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evenings in the University Center Tennessee Room. A light dinner will be served. Books may be ordered through any online retailer or at the UTC Bookstore. Questions can be directed to Aaron Shaheen.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center will host a data summit from 9:30 a.m.-noon Tuesday, Feb. 17, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.

The event will bring together faculty, students, community organization leaders and business partners to explore how data can help communities better understand and respond to everyday factors that influence health and well-being across Chattanooga and the surrounding region. Registration is available here.

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The Probasco Chair of Free Enterprise will host Steve Forbes for a lecture titled “How Free Enterprise, Not Government, Made America Great” at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Fine Arts Center.

Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will explore the principles of economic freedom through the lens of some of the country’s most influential entrepreneurs. There will be time at the end for a Q&A, moderated by UTC Probasco Chair Claudia Kramer. Registration information is available here.

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“Drawing the Future from the Past,” an exhibition highlighting student work from UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program, will be on view through Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) Landis Education Gallery (30 Frazier Ave.).

The exhibition features projects from a two-semester capstone sequence in which students research historically significant buildings and develop adaptive reuse proposals informed by architectural, cultural and social context. Students collaborate with professional mentors, architects, historians, code officials and building owners, as well as community partner Preserve Chattanooga, to create design solutions that support preservation advocacy and potential community revitalization.

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The Institute for Contemporary Art presents “The Cupola Project,” an exhibition on view through Friday, March 6. Initiated in 2023 by artist and professor Martijn Van Wagtendonk as a sculpture assignment at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, the project has grown to engage more than 45 students and faculty from diverse disciplines.

Inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, “The Cupola Project” integrates engineering, science, language, music, philosophy and kinetic sculpture into a large-scale interactive structure. Constructed with mortise-and-tenon joints, the work has continued to evolve over recent years. Designed with portability in mind, Cupola functions like a mobile fairground attraction, easily assembled and disassembled to travel and engage audiences.

The ICA is free and open to the public from noon-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following student will be presenting final works of research as an advanced degree candidate. Everyone is invited to attend.

Campus Updates

The Environmental Studies program is partnering with the SGA Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials to turn old glass into the new lobby floor of Oak Street Residence Hall.

UTC students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring empty, clean glass jars—such as teriyaki sauce, strawberry jam and pickle jars—to the bright yellow collection bins located at Stacy Town Center and the University Center Roundabout, directly across from the Esports Complex.

 All glass colors are accepted, with dark blue glass especially encouraged. Collection bins will be available from now through the start of spring break.

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UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement. Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions, and additional information will be shared with those who express interest.

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Faculty are invited to join the Faculty Writing Collective, which meets from 9:30 a.m.-noon on Fridays during the academic year in the UTC Library. This is a writing accountability group that includes a brief goal setting exercise, two hours of quiet writing time and a check-in at the end of the session.

The UTC Faculty Writing Collective’s goal is to support faculty who face structural, cultural and institutional barriers to writing by fostering a supportive community grounded in accountability, care and equity. Faculty are encouraged to carve out dedicated writing or research time this Friday and enjoy a pastry while they work. To join the email list, contact Emma McDonell.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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UTC Veteran and Military Affairs has partnered with BJ’s Wholesale Club in Hixson to support the Holiday for Heroes campaign. The goal is to reach 200 memberships and raise funds for veteran and military-connected students as part of the Holiday for Heroes event series.

Participants can receive a discounted BJ’s membership while giving back to UTC Veteran and Military Affairs. To join, scan the QR code or click the flyer link, or call 800-313-8887 and use group code 827042 to ensure your sign-up counts toward UTC’s campaign.

Sign up here by Friday, Jan. 30, to secure pre-club opening discounts. Spread the word—every membership helps support our veterans.

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The UT Alliance of Women Philanthropists is accepting applications from UT faculty, staff, departments and student organizations for the 2026-27 Giving Circle Grants Cycle to support projects that challenge conventional approaches and inspire new solutions to pressing needs.

Proposals may request support for a new project or program that benefits the campus or an expansion of an existing program. Grant requests may range from $2,500–$25,000 and may not include general operating expenses, including faculty salaries. Applications include a cover sheet, a two-page proposal narrative and a one-page detailed budget. Full instructions and a list of past recipients are available on the Circle of Giving website.

Those planning to apply should notify Todd Moore-Doman by Tuesday, Feb. 3, so ORSP can assist with budget preparation and application materials. Proposals must be submitted for routing in Cayuse SP by Friday, Feb. 20, to be eligible for consideration. ORSP will submit final approved proposals to AWP by Friday, Feb. 27, with awards expected to be announced by Monday, March 30.

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The Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority (CARTA) operates a free shuttle that serves downtown, the North Shore, St. Elmo and the Incline Railway. The current route was developed in the early 1990s and, aside from the recent addition of the North Shore Express, has remained largely unchanged.

CARTA is now reimagining its shuttle routes and service and is seeking community input. Whether you are a daily shuttle user or have never hopped on for a ride, CARTA wants to hear from you. An interactive map allows participants to drag and drop pins to share ideas, thoughts and suggestions for improving shuttle service. A short survey, which takes about five minutes to complete, is also available through the map.

Community members are encouraged to take the survey and share it with friends, family and co-workers. This is an opportunity to help improve how the shuttle benefits residents, businesses and visitors across the community. Click here for the interactive map and survey.

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The Office of Research Integrity has announced a new go-live date for DASH Research IRB: Monday, Feb. 16. Below are key deadlines to support the transition to the new submission system.

  • Today (Jan. 27): Only IRB submissions that are fully approved by 5 p.m. will be moved into DASH Research IRB. Any submissions not approved by that time must be resubmitted in the new system after go-live.
  • Monday, Feb. 16: All new IRB applications must be submitted through the DASH Research IRB module.

For questions or assistance, contact Baley Whary at irb@utc.edu or 423-425-5867.

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Interested in UTC’s multidisciplinary Learning and Leadership (LEAD) doctoral programs? Join a virtual information session hosted by Dr. Elizabeth Crawford, LEAD programs advisor, and Dr. David Rausch, LEAD programs director.

Register here to receive an Outlook calendar invite with the Zoom meeting link.

Applications for the summer 2026 Ph.D. and Ed.D. cohorts will be accepted now through Friday, Feb. 27. Step-by-step application instructions and additional details, including FAQs, will be available on the LEAD program websites. For questions, email utclead@utc.edu.

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Free short-term physical therapy services are available to UTC students, faculty and staff through the PT Pro Bono Clinic, led by physical therapy faculty and doctoral students. The clinic provides evaluations and treatment for a range of concerns, from ankle sprains to lingering back pain.

The clinic is located in University Health Services in Maclellan Gym and is open 8 a.m.-noon on Tuesdays and 1-5 p.m. on Thursdays. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 423-425-2266. Questions can be directed to ptclinic@utc.edu.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

UTC Newsroom

Chancellor Lori Mann Bruce

Chancellor Lori Bruce

During Chancellor Lori Bruce’s first semester at UTC, University photographer Angela Foster was nearby, capturing moments that defined the beginning of her new role. Click here to view the photo essay.

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Dr. Lisa Piazza

Dr. Lisa Piazza came to UTC in 2018 with a goal to help more students see themselves as researchers. As executive director of the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE), she works with students and faculty across campus to help more students find their way into research and creative work.

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UTC nursing student Carly Chastain takes a patient’s blood pressure at the Rhea Richland Senior Neighbors Center in Dayton, Tennessee.

UTC nursing student Carly Chastain takes a patient’s blood pressure at the Rhea Richland Senior Neighbors Center in Dayton, Tennessee.

Since launching in spring 2025, UTC College of Nursing’s MobileMOC medical outreach clinic has delivered preventive care, screenings, education and referrals to older adults and caregivers across rural counties, logging thousands of miles, thousands of patient touch points and hundreds of student learning hours through an interprofessional team spanning nursing, occupational therapy, social work, nutrition and advanced practice providers.

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As part of Winter Welcome Week, UTC hosted the Winter Organization Fair to connect students to both new and existing organizations that could align with their interests.

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

  • Laurel Rhyne remembers the very first time she heard about generative artificial intelligence. It was December 18, 2022. She was listening to a National Public Radio story in her car while crossing the Market Street Bridge. “The focus was all on plagiarism and what it was going to do for higher ed,” explained Rhyne, an associate lecturer in the UTC College of Nursing. “What I saw was so much more. “Our whole world is going to change.”
  • As part of this semester’s Winter Welcome Week festivities, UTC hosted “Dinner & A Show! Featuring Trent James.” The event brought students together for a catered meal and a live performance by magician and comedian Trent James.
  • UTC Assistant Professor of Anthropology Emma McDonell’s central question this past summer: Who controls the food on people’s tables?

WUTC

Chancellor Lori Bruce

Chancellor Lori Bruce

Chancellor Lori Bruce sat down for an episode of “Chatting with the Chancellor” for WUTC’s “Scenic Roots.” She discussed the College of Nursing, quantum, her investiture ceremony and her first six months at UTC.

IN Memoriam

Dr. Tommie F. Brown, esteemed UTC professor, pioneering department head, and Tennessee state representative, died at 91 on January 20, 2026. A trailblazer in education and civic leadership, she founded UTC’s Department of Social Work and served seven terms in the Tennessee House.

Dr. Brown joined UTC as the University’s first black tenure-track faculty member in 1971 as an assistant professor in the Sociology Department. She created and became coordinator of the Social Work program in 1977 before establishing the Department of Social Work in 1980. She served as department head until 1983.

After serving as both District Representative and professor from 1993 to 1998, Brown retired from her position at the university to focus on her legislative duties. Her legacy includes the Tommie F. Brown Academy and decades of service uplifting Chattanooga’s community with unwavering passion and integrity.

Information on visitation and funeral services this week is available here.

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This section is reserved for memorial announcements of current and former UTC employees as the Office of Communications and Marketing becomes aware. To publish an announcement, a publicly available obituary must be provided. Please send any announcements to Vice Chancellor JAy Blackman at jay-blackman@utc.edu.
 

January 20-26, 2026

Updates and news for the week of January 20-26, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

Mocs Flight Plan takes flight

Chancellor Lori Bruce talks during the Mocs Flight Plan kickoff session.

UTC leaders, faculty and staff recently gathered for the kickoff meeting of the Mocs Flight Plan, marking the start of a coordinated, campuswide effort to implement the University’s Strategic Enrollment Plan approved in fall 2025. The Mocs Flight Plan establishes UTC’s roadmap for reaching 15,000 students by 2030 while strengthening retention, student outcomes and the overall student experience.

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Meal Plan Change Request Deadline

The spring 2026 meal plan change request deadline is 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 25.

Students may now request a meal plan change by emailing mocscard@utc.edu. Remember to include your UTC ID number and the eligible meal plan you would like for the spring 2026 semester. Any requests received after Sunday, Jan. 25, will not be accepted.

Meal plan eligibility is based on earned credit hours. The University classifies undergraduate students as freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors according to the number of credit hours the student has completed:

  • Freshman: 0-29 semester hours
  • Sophomore: 30-59 semester hours
  • Junior: 60-89 semester hours
  • Senior: 90 or more semester hours

The meal plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

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UTC’s Vu Nguyen earns national championship in T.E.A.M. University Challenge

UTC sophomore Vu Nguyen, with UC Foundation and Robert L. Maclellan Associate Professor of Finance Hunter Holzhauer, displays his T.E.A.M. University Challenge trophy.

Vu Nguyen isn’t one to seek the spotlight. But when the final scores were tallied in a national financial planning competition, the UTC sophomore found his name at the very top. Nguyen’s investment portfolio finished first among more than 600 students from 14 universities in the 2025 T.E.A.M. University Challenge, hosted by The E-Valuator Asset Management.

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UTC invited to join Southeastern Quantum Collaborative

Last week, UTC accepted an invitation to join the Southeastern Quantum Collaborative (SQC), created by the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). Founding members of the SQC include IBM, Davidson Technologies and Alabama A&M University. Additional organizations—including UTC, Oak Ridge Associated Universities, IonQ and Leidos—have committed to join as inaugural members.

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Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Natasha Trethewey to give free public lecture

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and two-term U.S. Poet Laureate Natasha Trethewey will deliver a free, public lecture titled “The Role of the Humanities in Our Personal and Civic Lives” at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The event will include a lecture by Trethewey, readings from her work, a question-and-answer session and a book signing. Books will be available for purchase at the lecture through Barnes & Noble.

The lecture is sponsored by The Lyndhurst Foundation, the UTC Honors College O’Dea Lecture Series, the UTC Division of Access and Engagement, The Keese Lecture Series and the UTC Department of English.

Outstanding People of UTC

Charlie Mix (left) and Nyssa Hunt

Charlie Mix (left) and Nyssa Hunt

Congratulations to UTC faculty and staff who received awards or submitted proposals for sponsored programs in December. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs announced that faculty and staff attracted $226,430 in external grant and contract awards during the month and submitted proposals for the potential to generate over $6,272,297 in external funding, if awarded.

Among those receiving awards in December were Charlie Mix and Nyssa Hunt in the Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science (CAGDS).

  • Mix, Hunt and Laura Lee (CAGDS), in collaboration with Austin Peay State University, have received $37,931 from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for the project titled, “Research and Development of Southeastern Grasslands Institute Southeast Native Seed Network Hub & GIS Web Tools.”
  • Mix and Hunt, in collaboration with the South-Central Tennessee Development District, have received $45,379 from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation for the project entitled, “Developing a GIS Conservation Priority Model of the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership.”

In addition, ORSP provided its second-quarter report for the 2026 fiscal year, including a downloadable PDF: Q2 FY26 YTD Report PDF.

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Jessica Hobbs

At the start of her college journey, Jessica Hobbs was a nursing student at Chattanooga State Community College who felt lost when she realized that the profession may not be for her. Nearly a decade later, Hobbs is nearing graduation from UTC with a degree in chemical engineering. She is also an Innovations in Honors student in the UTC Honors College and the recipient of the Gilman Scholarship, which will allow her to travel to the Netherlands this spring free of charge.

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Acute Care Physical Therapy Residency graduate Cheryl Self (second from left) holds her plaque following the Jan. 13 ceremony, joined by Alexis Bennett, Gina Rahn and Stephanie Eton.

UTC and Erlanger marked a milestone with the graduation of the first resident from their jointly developed Acute Care Physical Therapy Residency during a ceremony at Erlanger Baroness Hospital. The event recognized the completion of the yearlong program by Dr. Cheryl Self, a licensed physical therapist at Erlanger who received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from UTC in 2020.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • Chancellor Lori Bruce joined an episode of My Morning Cup to discuss her upbringing and her introduction to higher education.
  • UC Foundation Associate Professor Saeid Golkar was featured in a Newsweek piece about Iran.
  • Assistant Professor Stephan Davenport spoke to Local 3 News about the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
  • NewsChannel 9 spoke to UC Foundation Professor Rick Dierenfeldt for a story about Chattanooga’s drop in homicides.
  • Students Kaylen Hamlin, Kaitlyn Notto, Arden Perry, Jamie Stout and Iqra Sheikh, along with UC Foundation Assistant Professor Kristi Wick, were featured in an Our Tennessee magazine article about the MobileMOC health clinic.
  • Dr. Kristi Wick also joined an episode of Jed & JR Mornings to discuss MobileMOC.
  • A Sports Video Group story featured Associate Athletic Director of Digital Media Leah Gill.
  • UC Foundation Associate Professor Liz Hathaway discussed how to develop healthy habits in the new year on Jed & JR Mornings.
  • Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall discussed slow economic growth in Chattanooga for a News 12 Now article.

Mark Your Calendar

Landon Jones (photo credit: Sam Janicki/GoMocs.com)

Upcoming Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Wednesday, Jan. 21: Men’s Basketball vs. ETSU, McKenzie Arena, 7 p.m.
  • Friday, Jan. 23: Wrestling vs. Davidson, Maclellan Gym, 7 p.m.
  • Sunday, Jan. 25: Wrestling vs. Presbyterian, Maclellan Gym, 2 p.m.
  • Monday, Jan. 26: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

MAcc Information Sessions

MSM Information Sessions

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

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Create a vision board from noon-4 p.m. today (Jan. 20) with the UTC Bookstore.

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“Take Five 2026: Americans Abroad” returns in January, inviting the UTC campus and broader community to take part in a shared reading experience exploring what happens when Americans travel abroad—for both high and low adventure.

This year’s selections and presenters include:

  • Today (Jan. 20): Aaron Shaheen presents “A Star for Mrs. Blake” by April Smith
  • Tuesday, Feb. 10: Sybil Baker presents “The Sheltering Sky” by Paul Bowles
  • Tuesday, March 3: Will Kuby presents “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
  • Tuesday, March 24: Verbie Prevost presents “Daisy Miller” by Henry James
  • Tuesday, April 7: Bryan Hampton presents “The English Experience” by Julie Schumacher

All sessions take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evenings in the University Center Tennessee Room. A light dinner will be served. Books may be ordered through any online retailer or at the UTC Bookstore. Questions can be directed to Aaron Shaheen.

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Ilja Popovs from UT Knoxville will present “Leveraging Coordination Chemistry for Sustainable f-Element Separations and Targeted Radiometal Therapies” from 2:20-3:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 23, in Grote 411 (Chemistry Department).

The talk will examine how fundamental concepts in coordination chemistry can be applied to challenges in nuclear medicine and sustainable energy. Drawing on recent studies of lanthanide and actinide complexes, Popovs will discuss how variations in chelator design—including coordination geometry, donor-atom identity, rigidity and preorganization—affect metal-ligand selectivity and stability across the f-element series. These design principles support targeted delivery of therapeutic radiometals and improved recovery of critical elements from complex mixtures, emphasizing structure–property relationships that link atomic-scale understanding to practical technologies.

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Join a community conversation with UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program connected to the exhibition “Ghosts in the Walls: Preservation as Memory.” The event will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) on 30 Frazier Ave. Presented in partnership with Preserve Chattanooga, the event will feature a panel discussion with local preservationists Todd Morgan, Melissa Mortimer and Rachel Hunt.

The program will examine preservation efforts in Chattanooga, including successes and shortcomings of existing city ordinances, gaps in protections for historic structures and practical ways community members can engage in advocacy and influence local policy. The event is designed to inform, engage and encourage collective action to protect the city’s historic built environment.

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Scrappy’s Cupboard is open and operational for the spring semester and is now located in University Center Room 278. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. All UTC faculty, staff and students are welcome to visit. Patrons may use Scrappy’s Cupboard once per month, no questions asked.

Scrappy’s Markets also return this spring. The next market will take place 2-4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, on the second floor of the University Center. All spring markets will be held 2-4 p.m. in the University Center on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, Feb. 11
  • Tuesday, Feb. 24
  • Wednesday, March 11
  • Tuesday, March 24
  • Wednesday, April 8
  • Tuesday, April 21

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Join an Orientation Leader interest meeting to learn more about the role, responsibilities and impact you can make in welcoming new students to campus. This meeting is a great opportunity to ask questions and find out if the position is right for you.

  • Wednesday, Jan. 28, Admissions Tour Room (2nd floor of the University Center), 3 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 29, Admissions Tour Room (2nd floor of the University Center), 3 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Feb. 3, Zoom, 3 p.m.

If you are interested but unable to attend any of these interest meetings, please email Katelynn Buchanan.

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The Innovations in Honors program is seeking currently enrolled students interested in joining the UTC Honors College in fall 2026. Students can learn more by registering for a virtual information session, held via Zoom on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, Jan. 28, 6-7 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 5, 1-2 p.m.

The program offers opportunities to develop key skills and enrich the academic experience through hands-on learning, including courses such as Innovation Lab, where students collaborate with partners from the city of Chattanooga to design and implement projects that address community challenges.

Additional benefits of admission to the UTC Honors College include a $2,000 annual scholarship (for up to three years, depending on completed credits at the time of admission), potential housing in the honors residential community, an out-of-state tuition waiver, priority registration, small class sizes and support for research and travel opportunities.

Students are encouraged to register for a virtual information session or contact Dr. Jordan King, program director, for more information.

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Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope

From curiosity to courtrooms, a real-world look at forensic accounting will take place at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, in the University Center Auditorium.

Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope will share her unconventional career journey at the intersection of accounting, ethics, storytelling and investigation. The talk offers an engaging and practical look at how accounting can be used to protect organizations and the public and may be of interest to those exploring career paths, interested in ethics or drawn to real-world investigative work. Registration information is available here.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center will host a Data Summit from 9:30 a.m.-noon Tuesday, Feb. 17, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.

The event will bring together faculty, students, community organization leaders and business partners to explore how data can help communities better understand and respond to everyday factors that influence health and well-being across Chattanooga and the surrounding region. Registration is available here.

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The Probasco Chair of Free Enterprise will host Steve Forbes for a lecture titled “How Free Enterprise, Not Government, Made America Great” at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Fine Arts Center.

Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will explore the principles of economic freedom through the lens of some of the country’s most influential entrepreneurs. Registration information is available here.

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“Drawing the Future from the Past,” an exhibition highlighting student work from UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program, will be on view through Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) Landis Education Gallery (30 Frazier Ave.).

The exhibition features projects from a two-semester capstone sequence in which students research historically significant buildings and develop adaptive reuse proposals informed by architectural, cultural and social context. Students collaborate with professional mentors, architects, historians, code officials and building owners, as well as community partner Preserve Chattanooga, to create design solutions that support preservation advocacy and potential community revitalization.

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The Institute for Contemporary Art presents “The Cupola Project,” an exhibition on view through Friday, March 6. Initiated in 2023 by artist and professor Martijn Van Wagtendonk as a sculpture assignment at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, the project has grown to engage more than 45 students and faculty from diverse disciplines.

Inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, “The Cupola Project” integrates engineering, science, language, music, philosophy and kinetic sculpture into a large-scale interactive structure. Constructed with mortise-and-tenon joints, the work has continued to evolve over recent years. Designed with portability in mind, Cupola functions like a mobile fairground attraction, easily assembled and disassembled to travel and engage audiences.

The ICA is free and open to the public from noon-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Campus Updates

As the new semester begins during the winter months, prioritize routines that support both physical and mental wellness. Shorter days and colder weather can impact energy and mood. Try to stay active with brief indoor workouts or brisk walks around campus when possible, fuel your body with balanced meals and warm, nourishing foods, and protect your sleep by keeping a consistent schedule.

The Center for Wellbeing rents out “Happy Lights” to help regulate sleep schedules and support consistent light therapy during darker months. Amid the rush of New Year’s resolutions, remember to set realistic goals that focus on progress rather than perfection. Practice kindness toward yourself and recognize that shame does not promote meaningful change when working toward who you are or who you want to be. Check in with yourself by using campus resources such as Counseling Services, the Aquatic and Recreation Center and other organizations that can help you stay motivated, manage stress and start the semester feeling supported and refreshed.

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The Environmental Studies program is partnering with the SGA Sustainability Committee, Tinker Ma Architects and local glass recycling company Overlooked Materials to turn old glass into the new lobby floor of Oak Street Residence Hall.

UTC students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring empty, clean glass jars—such as teriyaki sauce, strawberry jam and pickle jars—to the bright yellow collection bins located at Stacy Town Center and the University Center Roundabout, directly across from the Esports Complex.

 All glass colors are accepted, with dark blue glass especially encouraged. Collection bins will be available from now through the start of spring break.

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Faculty are invited to join the Faculty Writing Collective, which meets from 9:30 a.m.-noon on Fridays during the academic year in the UTC Library. This is a writing accountability group that includes a brief goal setting exercise, two hours of quiet writing time and a check-in at the end of the session.

The UTC Faculty Writing Collective’s goal is to support faculty who face structural, cultural and institutional barriers to writing by fostering a supportive community grounded in accountability, care and equity. Faculty are encouraged to carve out dedicated writing or research time this Friday and enjoy a pastry while they work. To join the email list, contact Emma McDonell.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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UTC Veteran and Military Affairs has partnered with BJ’s Wholesale Club in Hixson to support the Holiday for Heroes campaign. The goal is to reach 200 memberships and raise funds for veteran and military-connected students as part of the Holiday for Heroes event series.

Participants can receive a discounted BJ’s membership while giving back to UTC Veteran and Military Affairs. To join, scan the QR code or click the flyer link, or call 800-313-8887 and use group code 827042 to ensure your sign-up counts toward UTC’s campaign.

Sign up here by Friday, Jan. 30, to secure pre-club opening discounts. Spread the word—every membership helps support our veterans.

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The UT Alliance of Women Philanthropists is accepting applications from UT faculty, staff, departments and student organizations for the 2026-27 Giving Circle Grants Cycle to support projects that challenge conventional approaches and inspire new solutions to pressing needs.

Proposals may request support for a new project or program that benefits the campus or an expansion of an existing program. Grant requests may range from $2,500–$25,000 and may not include general operating expenses, including faculty salaries. Applications include a cover sheet, a two-page proposal narrative and a one-page detailed budget. Full instructions and a list of past recipients are available on the Circle of Giving website.

Those planning to apply should notify Todd Moore-Doman by Tuesday, Feb. 3, so ORSP can assist with budget preparation and application materials. Proposals must be submitted for routing in Cayuse SP by Friday, Feb. 20, to be eligible for consideration. ORSP will submit final approved proposals to AWP by Friday, Feb. 27, with awards expected to be announced by Monday, March 30.

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The Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority (CARTA) operates a free shuttle that serves downtown, the North Shore, St. Elmo and the Incline Railway. The current route was developed in the early 1990s and, aside from the recent addition of the North Shore Express, has remained largely unchanged.

CARTA is now reimagining its shuttle routes and service and is seeking community input. Whether you are a daily shuttle user or have never hopped on for a ride, CARTA wants to hear from you. An interactive map allows participants to drag and drop pins to share ideas, thoughts and suggestions for improving shuttle service. A short survey, which takes about five minutes to complete, is also available through the map.

Community members are encouraged to take the survey and share it with friends, family and co-workers. This is an opportunity to help improve how the shuttle benefits residents, businesses and visitors across the community. Click here for the interactive map and survey.

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The Office of Research Integrity has announced a new go-live date for DASH Research IRB: Monday, Feb. 16. Below are key deadlines to support the transition to the new submission system.

  • Tuesday, Jan. 27: Only IRB submissions that are fully approved by 5 p.m. will be moved into DASH Research IRB. Any submissions not approved by that time must be resubmitted in the new system after go-live.
  • Monday, Feb. 16: All new IRB applications must be submitted through the DASH Research IRB module.

For questions or assistance, contact Baley Whary at irb@utc.edu or 423-425-5867.

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Free short-term physical therapy services are available to UTC students, faculty and staff through the PT Pro Bono Clinic, led by physical therapy faculty and doctoral students. The clinic provides evaluations and treatment for a range of concerns, from ankle sprains to lingering back pain.

The clinic is located in University Health Services in Maclellan Gym and is open 8 a.m.-noon on Tuesdays and 1-5 p.m. on Thursdays. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 423-425-2266. Questions can be directed to ptclinic@utc.edu.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

UTC Newsroom

Dr. Jose Barbosa and members of the ANGELS camp work in the Teaching and Learning Garden near Holt Hall.

Dr. Jose Barbosa and members of the ANGELS camp work in the Teaching and Learning Garden near Holt Hall.

UTC has been nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to community engagement, earning the 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification—awarded by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in collaboration with the American Council on Education.

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Brock Hall

The United States’ involvement in World War II elevated science to a national priority, and this was reflected in the curricula of higher education institutions across the country in the postwar years. UTC was no exception, and Brock Hall, dedicated in November 1949 as a science building housing the Biology, Chemistry, Engineering Drawing, Geography, and Geology Departments, is a physical reminder of that era.

In his role as University archivist, UC Foundation Associate Professor Noah Lasley works to acquire, arrange and describe official UTC records and other valuable materials that document the University’s history and functions.

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Laura Petrus (left) and Chris Stokes address the crowd at the grand opening of the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community.

UTC recently celebrated the grand opening of its Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community (CSLEC) with an afternoon designed for students to stop by, hang out and get a feel for the new Lupton Hall space.

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

  • With the start of the spring semester, December 2025 UTC graduate April (A.P.) Horn is now enrolled in Graduate School thanks to the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship, a competitive National Science Foundation-funded fellowship that provides STEM graduates with a fully funded pathway to earn a master’s degree in secondary education from UTC in just 14 months.
  • If you’re a student or faculty member at the UTC, you have most likely used Canvas. Menekse Adar, a graduate student in engineering management at UTC’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, is working to understand how different Canvas course layouts shape students’ engagement in their classes.

WUTC

Two episodes of WUTC’s “Scenic Roots” featured Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly and Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp. Kelly discussed the city and UTC Research Institute’s federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All program, affordable housing and CARTA. Wamp talked about historic preservation, county legislative priorities and renovating the riverfront in downtown Chattanooga.

Another recent episode of “Scenic Roots” featured students in the UTC Department of Communication, who discussed their projects in “solutions journalism.”

IN Memoriam

Chattanooga Athletics mourns the passing of 2018 UTC Hall of Fame Inductee Bill Tym, a main architect of the Mocs tennis success in the 1970s and prominent tennis figure in the Scenic City. Tym (1940-2026) passed away peacefully at his home in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, on Jan. 15 at the age of 85. His full obituary is available here, while this link takes you to more information about his hall of fame career at UTC.

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Annie Westmoreland Sanders, who retired from UTC as lead pastry chef, died Jan. 8, 2026—just six days before her 108th birthday.

Born Jan. 14, 1918, in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, Sanders later moved to Chattanooga, where she built a long career centered on her love of cooking. Before joining UTC, she worked as a seamstress at Thea’s House of Sample on McCallie Avenue and as a cook at Buck’s Restaurant on Ringgold Road. Sanders’ passion for cooking continued long after retirement; she remained active in the kitchen well into early 2025, at age 107.

A full obituary is available here.

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This section is reserved for memorial announcements of current and former UTC employees as the Office of Communications and Marketing becomes aware. To publish an announcement, a publicly available obituary must be provided. Please send any announcements to Vice Chancellor JAy Blackman at jay-blackman@utc.edu.
 

January 13-19, 2026

Updates and news for the week of January 13-19, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

Winter Welcome Week

Welcome to the start of the spring 2026 semester!

Winter Welcome Week provides a week of relaxing and exciting activities hosted by various departments and student organizations to help ease students into the spring semester. The calendar of events includes:

  • Today (Jan. 13): Veteran and Military Affairs Operation Supply Drop, Hooper Hall 102, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
  • Today (Jan. 13): International Tea Time, Lupton Hall Lobby, 3-4:40 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Jan. 14: Center for Student Leadership, Engagement, and Community Grand Opening, Lupton Hall Lobby, noon-3 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Jan. 14: Game Night at the Mocs Recovery Lounge, Mocs Recovery Lounge at Stacy Town Center, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Jan. 14: Paint Night, Lupton Hall Lobby, 7 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 15: Start Well: Winter Edition, Center for Wellbeing Lounge, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 15: Warm Welcome with the Graduate School: Hot Cocoa and Cider Bar, University Center Lobby tables, noon-2 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 15: Winter Organization Fair, University Center Tennessee Room, 4-6 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 15: Pizza and Pwange, eSports facility at Maclellan Gym, 5-7 p.m.
  • Friday, Jan. 16: Dinner and a Show featuring comedian and magician Trent James, University Center Tennessee Room, 6-8 p.m.

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UTC Earns National Recognition for Community Engagement

UTC has been nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to community engagement, earning the 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification—awarded by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in collaboration with the American Council on Education.

UTC was one of a select group of U.S. colleges and universities chosen in the 2026 cycle for the elective designation. Widely regarded as the nation’s most visible and selective validation of community engagement in higher education, the classification recognizes institutions that demonstrate deep, sustained partnerships with their communities and embed that work across the academic enterprise and institutional mission.

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New Phone or Apple watch for the Holidays? Don’t Forget Your Mocs Card!

Students, faculty and staff: Did you receive a new phone or Apple watch over the holidays? Make sure your Mocs Card is added to your new device by following these simple steps:

  1. Email mocscard@utc.edu and let us know you have a new phone (and provide your UTC ID number)
  2. We will update your account and send simple instructions for adding your ID to your new device
  3. Important: You must notify us so we can remove your original phone (or Apple watch) from your account
  4. Questions? Call us at 423-425-2218

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Meal Plan Change Request Deadline

The spring 2026 meal plan change request deadline is 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 25.

Students may now request a meal plan change by emailing mocscard@utc.edu. Remember to include your UTC ID number and the eligible meal plan you would like for the spring 2026 semester. Any requests received after Sunday, Jan. 25, will not be accepted.

Meal plan eligibility is based on earned credit hours. The University classifies undergraduate students as freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors according to the number of credit hours the student has completed:

  • Freshman: 0-29 semester hours
  • Sophomore: 30-59 semester hours
  • Junior: 60-89 semester hours
  • Senior: 90 or more semester hours

The meal plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

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Provost’s Student attendance challenge

The Provost’s Student Attendance Challenge gives students another reason to fill McKenzie Arena and cheer on the Mocs men’s and women’s basketball teams. Show up, bring the noise and students could walk away with up to $1,000 in scholarships just for being there.

Here’s how it works: For men’s basketball, if 500 or more students attend, one student will be randomly selected to receive a $1,000 scholarship; if fewer than 500 attend, one student will be randomly selected to receive a $500 scholarship. For women’s basketball, if 200 or more students attend, one student will be randomly selected to receive a $1,000 scholarship; if fewer than 200 attend, one student will be randomly selected to receive a $500 scholarship.

To be eligible, students must be currently enrolled at UTC and secure their ticket to the game through GoMocs.com. At halftime, a winner will be selected from the list of students in attendance and recognized with an on-court “big-check” moment. Student organizations, residence halls and friend groups are encouraged to make Mocs basketball part of their spring routine — wear blue and gold, bring energy and help make McKenzie Arena rock.

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New federal ADA digital accessibility requirements take effect in April

Beginning Friday, April 24, all government entities—including public universities—must comply with new ADA Title II requirements for digital accessibility. This update from the U.S. Department of Justice impacts websites, documents, videos, learning systems, mobile apps and other digital tools.

UTC is updating its IT0006 Accessibility policy to align with these federal standards. The UT System is taking a coordinated, systemwide approach involving the Office of General Counsel, Audit and Compliance, Technology Solutions, and campus subject matter experts to guide implementation and ensure compliance.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to begin identifying high-priority, public-facing digital content and review it for accessibility. A Central Hub page has been created with resources, guidance and ongoing updates as we prepare for the deadline.

Click here to learn more about ADA Title II compliance. Additional information and next steps will be shared by campus leadership as work progresses.

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Help reimagine the CARTA shuttle

The Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority (CARTA) operates a free shuttle that serves downtown, the North Shore, St. Elmo and the Incline Railway. The current route was developed in the early 1990s and, aside from the recent addition of the North Shore Express, has remained largely unchanged.

CARTA is now reimagining its shuttle routes and service and is seeking community input. Whether you are a daily shuttle user or have never hopped on for a ride, CARTA wants to hear from you. An interactive map allows participants to drag and drop pins to share ideas, thoughts and suggestions for improving shuttle service. A short survey, which takes about five minutes to complete, is also available through the map.

Community members are encouraged to take the survey and share it with friends, family and co-workers. This is an opportunity to help improve how the shuttle benefits residents, businesses and visitors across the community. Click here for the interactive map and survey.

Outstanding People of UTC

Mason Adolf’s project, “How American Tax Systems Contribute to Economic Inequality,” won the Academic Affairs’ Choice First Place award at the December 2025 Writing Program Showcase. Photo courtesy of Dr. Jennifer Stewart.

UTC has received national recognition for doing something most universities do, but rarely do this well. The Department of English’s Composition Program has been awarded a 2025–26 Conference on College Composition and Communication Writing Program Certificate of Excellence—the highest honor given by the CCCC, a constituent organization within the National Council of Teachers of English.

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Vio Midgett (left) and Noah Wyatt

Two students from the UTC Honors College earned national recognition at the 2025 National Collegiate Honors Council annual conference, including a Portz Scholar selection for the second consecutive year.

May 2025 graduate Vio Midgett, a Brock Scholar who earned degrees in history and international studies, was one of four students named a 2025 Portz Scholar—one of the most prestigious honors for undergraduates in honors programs across the country. UTC junior Noah Wyatt, a Brock Scholar majoring in physics, earned third place in the conference’s research poster competition, which included more than 200 presenters.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • Jermaine Freeman, executive director of economic and workforce development, was a guest on Jed & JR Mornings to talk about his new role at UTC.
  • UC Foundation Professor Rick Dierenfeldt joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss the trial of Adrian Gonzales, an officer who responded to the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas.

Mark Your Calendar

Landon Jones (photo credit: Sam Janicki/GoMocs.com)

Upcoming Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Monday, Jan. 19: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Jan. 21: Men’s Basketball vs. ETSU, McKenzie Arena, 7 p.m.
  • Friday, Jan. 23: Wrestling vs. Davidson, Maclellan Gym, 7 p.m.
  • Sunday, Jan. 25: Wrestling vs. Presbyterian, Maclellan Gym, 2 p.m.
  • Monday, Jan. 26: Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m.

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The UTC campus community is invited to celebrate the grand opening of the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement, and Community from noon-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 14, on the first floor of Lupton Hall.

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to stop by to learn more about the Center and its offerings, connect with staff, participate in a make-and-take activity and enjoy lunch while celebrating this new hub for students. Brief remarks will take place near the beginning of the event. Attendees are welcome to stay awhile and help kick off a space designed to support student leadership, engagement and community at UTC.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.

MSM Information Sessions

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

MAcc Information Sessions

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

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The Lookout Wild Film Festival (LWFF) is coming to the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall Jan. 15-18.

LWFF presents stories of diverse people who seek, explore and protect wild places. Across four days and seven screening blocks, the festival will showcase thrilling outdoor adventures, environmental stories and character-driven films from around the world. Whether you’re into climbing, paddling, mountain biking, conservation or simply discovering something new with friends, there’s a block of films for you. Click here to watch the 2026 festival trailer.

Students can purchase tickets and passes at LWFF.org or through the Fine Arts Center box office, open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students should use the code LWFF2026 for discounted pricing. Come for one block or make a weekend of it to see why Chattanooga’s own outdoor film festival has become a winter tradition.

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Career Connections invites on-campus employers to participate in a part-time job fair during Winter Welcome Week. The event will take place from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, in the University Center Tennessee Room.

The fair is an opportunity to meet students seeking part-time, on-campus positions and to bring new talent into your department. On-campus employers interested in participating can contact Community and Employer Relations Specialist Jillian Duke for registration details.

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Faculty, staff and students are invited to submit proposals for the UT Innovative Technologies Symposium, hosted by the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Office of Innovative Technologies. The three-day symposium will take place March 24-26 at the Knoxville Convention Center and will focus on shared IT challenges, skills and emerging ideas across higher education in Tennessee.

The goal is to raise awareness and encourage proposal submissions by Friday, Jan. 16. Additional details, proposal information and a media toolkit are available here.

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Join a community conversation with UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program connected to the exhibition “Ghosts in the Walls: Preservation as Memory.” The event will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) on 30 Frazier Ave. Presented in partnership with Preserve Chattanooga, the event will feature a panel discussion with local preservationists Todd Morgan, Melissa Mortimer and Rachel Hunt.

The program will examine preservation efforts in Chattanooga, including successes and shortcomings of existing city ordinances, gaps in protections for historic structures and practical ways community members can engage in advocacy and influence local policy. The event is designed to inform, engage and encourage collective action to protect the city’s historic built environment.

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Scrappy’s Cupboard is open and operational for the spring semester and is now located in University Center Room 278. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. All UTC faculty, staff and students are welcome to visit. Patrons may use Scrappy’s Cupboard once per month, no questions asked.

Scrappy’s Markets also return this spring. The next market will take place 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, on the second floor of the University Center. All spring markets will be held 2-4 p.m. in the University Center on the following dates:

  • Tuesday, Jan. 27
  • Wednesday, Feb. 11
  • Tuesday, Feb. 24
  • Wednesday, March 11
  • Tuesday, March 24
  • Wednesday, April 8
  • Tuesday, April 21

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Join an Orientation Leader interest meeting to learn more about the role, responsibilities and impact you can make in welcoming new students to campus. This meeting is a great opportunity to ask questions and find out if the position is right for you.

  • 3 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28, Admissions Tour Room (2nd floor of the University Center)
  • 3 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, Admissions Tour Room (2nd floor of the University Center)
  • 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, Zoom

If you are interested but unable to attend any of these interest meetings, please email Katelynn Buchanan.

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The Journey Health Foundation Research Center will host a Data Summit from 9:30 a.m.-noon Tuesday, Feb. 17, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.

The event will bring together faculty, students, community organization leaders and business partners to explore how data can help communities better understand and respond to everyday factors that influence health and well-being across Chattanooga and the surrounding region. Registration is available here.

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The Probasco Chair of Free Enterprise will host Steve Forbes for a lecture titled “How Free Enterprise, Not Government, Made America Great” at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the UTC Fine Arts Center.

Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will explore the principles of economic freedom through the lens of some of the country’s most influential entrepreneurs. Registration information is available here.

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“Drawing the Future from the Past,” an exhibition highlighting student work from UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program, will be on view through Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) Landis Education Gallery (30 Frazier Ave.).

The exhibition features projects from a two-semester capstone sequence in which students research historically significant buildings and develop adaptive reuse proposals informed by architectural, cultural and social context. Students collaborate with professional mentors, architects, historians, code officials and building owners, as well as community partner Preserve Chattanooga, to create design solutions that support preservation advocacy and potential community revitalization.

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The Institute for Contemporary Art presents “The Cupola Project,” an exhibition on view through Friday, March 6. Initiated in 2023 by artist and professor Martijn Van Wagtendonk as a sculpture assignment at the University of Georgia’s Lamar Dodd School of Art, the project has grown to engage more than 45 students and faculty from diverse disciplines.

Inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, “The Cupola Project” integrates engineering, science, language, music, philosophy and kinetic sculpture into a large-scale interactive structure. Constructed with mortise-and-tenon joints, the work has continued to evolve over recent years. Designed with portability in mind, Cupola functions like a mobile fairground attraction, easily assembled and disassembled to travel and engage audiences.

The ICA is free and open to the public from noon-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Campus Updates

The University’s new space reservation management program, 25Live, is officially live. You’ll find a link to 25Live at reservations.utc.edu.

If you have questions about how to submit a request, check out the Knowledge Base article. We also encourage you to attend a 25Live training session today (Jan. 13) from 3-4 p.m. via Zoom.

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Faculty are invited to join the Faculty Writing Collective, which meets from 9:30 a.m.-noon on Fridays during the academic year in the UTC Library. This is a writing accountability group that includes a brief goal setting exercise, two hours of quiet writing time and a check-in at the end of the session.

The UTC Faculty Writing Collective’s goal is to support faculty who face structural, cultural and institutional barriers to writing by fostering a supportive community grounded in accountability, care and equity. Faculty are encouraged to carve out dedicated writing or research time this Friday and enjoy a pastry while they work. To join the email list, contact Emma McDonell.

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UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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UTC Veteran and Military Affairs has partnered with BJ’s Wholesale Club in Hixson to support the Holiday for Heroes campaign. The goal is to reach 200 memberships and raise funds for veteran and military-connected students as part of the Holiday for Heroes event series.

Participants can receive a discounted BJ’s membership while giving back to UTC Veteran and Military Affairs. To join, scan the QR code or click the flyer link, or call 800-313-8887 and use group code 827042 to ensure your sign-up counts toward UTC’s campaign.

Sign up here by Friday, Jan. 30, to secure pre-club opening discounts. Spread the word—every membership helps support our veterans.

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The UT Alliance of Women Philanthropists is accepting applications from UT faculty, staff, departments and student organizations for the 2026-27 Giving Circle Grants Cycle to support projects that challenge conventional approaches and inspire new solutions to pressing needs.

Proposals may request support for a new project or program that benefits the campus or an expansion of an existing program. Grant requests may range from $2,500–$25,000 and may not include general operating expenses, including faculty salaries. Applications include a cover sheet, a two-page proposal narrative and a one-page detailed budget. Full instructions and a list of past recipients are available on the Circle of Giving website.

Those planning to apply should notify Todd Moore-Doman by Tuesday, Feb. 3, so ORSP can assist with budget preparation and application materials. Proposals must be submitted for routing in Cayuse SP by Friday, Feb. 20, to be eligible for consideration. ORSP will submit final approved proposals to AWP by Friday, Feb. 27, with awards expected to be announced by Monday, March 30.

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The Office of Research Integrity has announced a new go-live date for DASH Research IRB: Monday, Feb. 16. Below are key deadlines to support the transition to the new submission system.

  • Monday, Jan. 19: The IRB recommends returning any pending revisions by this date to allow adequate review time.
  • Tuesday, Jan. 27: Only IRB submissions that are fully approved by 5 p.m. will be moved into DASH Research IRB. Any submissions not approved by that time must be resubmitted in the new system after go-live.
  • Monday, Feb. 16: All new IRB applications must be submitted through the DASH Research IRB module.

For questions or assistance, contact Baley Whary at irb@utc.edu or 423-425-5867.

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Free short-term physical therapy services are available to UTC students, faculty and staff through the PT Pro Bono Clinic, led by physical therapy faculty and doctoral students. The clinic provides evaluations and treatment for a range of concerns, from ankle sprains to lingering back pain.

The clinic is located in University Health Services in Maclellan Gym and is open 8 a.m.-noon on Tuesdays and 1-5 p.m. on Thursdays. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 423-425-2266. Questions can be directed to ptclinic@utc.edu.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

UTC Newsroom

UTC has officially launched the College of Nursing, elevating one of the University’s longest-standing and most impactful academic programs to college status. The designation took effect Jan. 1.

The launch follows approvals by the UT Board of Trustees and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission and formalizes the role nursing plays at UTC and across the region’s health care workforce. With nearly 1,000 students enrolled across undergraduate and doctoral programs, the College of Nursing becomes UTC’s fifth academic college. Dr. Chris Smith, who has led the nursing program since 2014, serves as the inaugural dean.

Administratively, the transition reflects a structure that has long functioned at a college scale. Dr. Brooke Epperson has been named associate dean and undergraduate program director, and Dr. Christi Denton has been named assistant dean for graduate education while continuing as program director for the adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner program. Existing program coordinators have been retitled as program directors to align with national norms for colleges of nursing.

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The City of Chattanooga and the UTC Research Institute (UTCRI) have been awarded $1,063,393 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program to support a new Roadway Safety Design Technology Platform.

The funding will support data-driven work that complements the city’s existing Comprehensive Safety Action Plan by expanding how roadway safety conditions are evaluated across Chattanooga, with technical leadership provided by UTCRI’s Center for Urban Informatics and Progress (CUIP). By combining intersection-level data with continuous roadway imagery along high-risk corridors, the project will help the city look beyond individual intersections and better understand safety conditions and emerging risks.

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Tish Hubbard

Associate Director for Student Outreach and Support (SOS) Tish Hubbard has been working with college students since her own undergraduate days as a resident assistant. Her background is in clinical mental health counseling and higher education, where she helps students navigate whatever concerns they’re facing—whether that’s a crisis, a major life transition or a basic needs challenge. Currently located in Room 278 of the University Center, Hubbard wants students to know that office doors are always open.

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

  • Sisters Amber Honea and Alexis Murray have found their place helping others. The UTC alums are working as nurses for their respective hospitals in Chattanooga. Honea, who received a BSN from UTC in 2014 and an MSN in 2021, is an acute care nurse practitioner with the pulmonology and critical care department at Erlanger Hospital. Murray, who earned a BSN in 2019, is currently enrolled in the DNP program and is on pace to graduate in spring 2026. She works at CHI Memorial Hospital as an ICU floating nurse.
  • The UTC club sports program is a great way for students to get involved in a team setting while also getting exercise and creating bonds with other students.

WUTC

Craig Havighurst

Craig Havighurst, editorial director of WMOT—Middle Tennessee State University’s public radio station—joined an episode of WUTC’s “Scenic Roots” to discuss his latest book, “Musicality for Modern Humans: How to Listen Like an Artist.”
 

January 6-12, 2026

Updates and news for the week of January 6-12, 2026

The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.

UTC News  |  UTC Events Calendar  |  Campus Updates

Click here to view this week’s newsletter in your browser

Highlights

Dr. Mina Sartipi Named Interim Vice Chancellor for Research

Dr. Mina Sartipi

Dr. Mina Sartipi

Dr. Mina Sartipi has been appointed interim vice chancellor for research. Sartipi is the executive director of the UTC Research Institute and the founding director of the Center for Urban Informatics and Progress (CUIP). She is a Guerry Professor and UC Foundation Professor in UTC’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering and holds a joint faculty appointment with Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

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25Live going live

Our new space reservation management program, 25Live, will go live on Wednesday, Jan. 7.  You’ll find a link to 25Live at reservations.utc.edu.

If you have questions about how to submit a request, check out the Knowledge Base article. We also encourage you to attend one of our upcoming 25Live training sessions:

Did you submit a request for 2026 in EMS?  Don’t worry. Reservations for 2026 that were submitted in EMS have been transferred over to 25Live.

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Mocs men’s basketball vs. Furman

Photos by Ray Soldano/gomocs.com

UTC faculty and staff are invited to cheer on the men’s basketball team on Wednesday, Jan. 7, as the Mocs host Furman University in the first home conference game of the year in McKenzie Arena.

Note the special tipoff time of 5 p.m. for the nationally televised game on CBS Sports.  Discounted tickets are just $10 by entering promo code “FACSTAFF” using this link. For more information, call the ticket office at 423-266-6627 or email MocsTicketing@utc.edu. Hours of operation are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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Winter Welcome Week

Welcome to the start of the spring 2026 semester!

Winter Welcome Week provides a week of relaxing and exciting activities hosted by various departments and student organizations to help ease students into the spring semester. The calendar of events includes:

  • Monday, Jan. 12: Transfer Meet-Up: Make a Button and Mingle, Lupton Hall Lobby, 2-4 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Jan. 13: Veteran and Military Affairs Operation Supply Drop, Hooper Hall 102, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Jan. 14: Center for Student Leadership, Engagement, and Community Grand Opening, Lupton Hall Lobby, noon-3 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 15: Warm Welcome with the Graduate School: Hot Cocoa and Cider Bar, University Center Lobby tables, noon-2 p.m.
  • Friday, Jan. 16: Dinner and a Show featuring comedian and magician Trent James, University Center Tennessee Room, 6-8 p.m.

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New Phone or Apple watch for the Holidays? Don’t Forget Your Mocs Card!

Students, faculty and staff: Did you receive a new phone or Apple watch over the holidays? Make sure your Mocs Card is added to your new device by following these simple steps:

  1. Email mocscard@utc.edu and let us know you have a new phone (and provide your UTC ID number)
  2. We will update your account and send simple instructions for adding your ID to your new device
  3. Important: You must notify us so we can remove your original phone (or Apple watch) from your account
  4. Questions? Call us at 423-425-2218

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Meal Plan Change Request Deadline

The spring 2026 meal plan change request deadline is 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 25.

Students may now request a meal plan change by emailing mocscard@utc.edu. Remember to include your UTC ID number and the eligible meal plan you would like for the spring 2026 semester. Any requests received after Sunday, Jan. 25, will not be accepted.

Meal plan eligibility is based on earned credit hours. The University classifies undergraduate students as freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors according to the number of credit hours the student has completed:

  • Freshman: 0-29 semester hours
  • Sophomore: 30-59 semester hours
  • Junior: 60-89 semester hours
  • Senior: 90 or more semester hours

The meal plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

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John “Art” Phillips Sales Institute established at UTC

John “Art” Phillips

John “Art” Phillips

The sales institute in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business has been named the John “Art” Phillips Sales Institute, honoring the late entrepreneur, extraordinary salesman and business leader. The institute’s naming was made possible through a generous gift from the Phillips family.

The transformational gift will expand opportunities for UTC students by:

  • Providing scholarships for students with financial need.
  • Funding student and faculty participation in national sales competitions, conferences and workshops
  • Positioning UTC as a leader in sales education with a dedicated Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Sales
  • Enhancing sales simulation labs and advanced learning technology
  • Supporting the growth and professional development of sales faculty and staff

Guided by his motto, “Let’s Double It,” John Arthur Phillips Sr. helped a small local bakery—now McKee Foods—grow into a regional, then national marketer of snack food and home of Little Debbie®, America’s No. 1 snack cake brand.

Outstanding People of UTC

Dr. Rahul R. Bhosale and Dr. Bradley Harris

Dr. Rahul R. Bhosale and Dr. Bradley Harris

Two UTC chemical engineering professors and a pair of Hamilton County educators have co-authored a research paper published in the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy—one of the field’s leading academic journals.

Guerry Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering Rahul R. Bhosale and Associate Professor Bradley Harris, head of the Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering, mentored Henry Enerson of East Ridge High School and Jasmine C. Johnson-Jackson of Tyner Middle High Academy through a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Teachers program at UTC.

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UTC women’s basketball junior guard Caia Elisaldez has been selected as the Women’s Basketball Student-Athlete Engagement Group’s liaison to the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Playing Rules Committee, making her one of only two student-athletes nationwide appointed to the role. Elisaldez will provide a student-athlete perspective during meetings with coaches and administrators as the committee reviews playing rules focused on game flow, fairness and player safety, while continuing to lead on the court and pursue her pre-med studies at UTC.

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The Chattanooga Mocs set another athletics department record during the fall 2025 semester, posting a cumulative 3.443 GPA. Ten of the University’s 15 programs recorded GPAs of 3.50 or higher, while 14 finished above the 3.0 mark. The performance marks the fourth consecutive semester above a 3.30 GPA and the 15th straight semester with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.

241 of the 333 enrolled student-athletes made the Dean’s List (72.4%), including 79 completing the semester with a 4.0 GPA.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • College of Nursing Dean Chris Smith and Professor Linda Hill were interviewed by the Times Free Press about a Department of Education policy change.
  • School of Education Director Kim Wingate and junior Grace Hixson spoke with Local 3 News about stipends for student teachers.
  • Assistant Professor of Sociology Chris Vidmar was a guest on Jed & JR Mornings to talk about dating apps.
  • Director of Bands Randall Coleman spoke to FanSided about the demands of students in marching band.
  • Paddling Magazine published a story about engineering’s concrete canoe and its race against the UTC Rowing Team in the Tennessee River.
  • Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall was interviewed about the shortage of pennies by NewsChannel 9.
  • Department of Marketing Associate Professor of Practice Alycia Franklin was interviewed by NewsChannel 9 about AI shopping tools.
  • UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar was interviewed by the Wall Street Journal for a story about protesters in Iran.
  • Political Science Professor Marcus Mauldin spoke to the Times Free Press as part of a reelection campaign story.
  • 2023 Master of Environmental Science alum Will Stuart, now a GIS analyst with the City of Chattanooga’s Department of Technology Services, was a recipient of a Mayoral Award for his work creating a data rich interactive map that shows the hotspots for food insecurity in the city.

Mark Your Calendar

Photos by Ray Soldano/gomocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Wednesday, Jan. 7: Men’s Basketball vs. Furman, McKenzie Arena, 5 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 8: Women’s Basketball vs. Wofford, McKenzie Arena, 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, Jan. 10: Women’s Basketball vs. Furman, McKenzie Arena, 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, Jan. 10: Men’s Basketball vs. Samford, McKenzie Arena, 4:30 p.m.
  • Monday, Jan. 12: Mocs Club Chat With the Mocs, Miller’s Ale House (Hixson), 96.1 FM, 7 p.m

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“Drawing the Future from the Past,” an exhibition highlighting student work from UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program, will be on view Jan. 9-Feb. 26 at the Association for Visual Arts Landis Education Gallery (30 Frazier Ave.).

The exhibition features projects from a two-semester capstone sequence in which students research historically significant buildings and develop adaptive reuse proposals informed by architectural, cultural and social context. Students collaborate with professional mentors, architects, historians, code officials and building owners, as well as community partner Preserve Chattanooga, to create design solutions that support preservation advocacy and potential community revitalization.

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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions for the Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics and Master of Accountancy graduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.

MSM Information Sessions

MSDA Information Sessions

MBA Information Sessions

MAcc Information Sessions

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

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The Lookout Wild Film Festival (LWFF) is coming to the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall Jan. 15-18.

LWFF presents stories of diverse people who seek, explore and protect wild places. Across four days and seven screening blocks, the festival will showcase thrilling outdoor adventures, environmental stories and character-driven films from around the world. Whether you’re into climbing, paddling, mountain biking, conservation or simply discovering something new with friends, there’s a block of films for you. Click here to watch the 2026 festival trailer.

Students can purchase tickets and passes at LWFF.org or through the Fine Arts Center box office, open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students should use the code LWFF2026 for discounted pricing. Come for one block or make a weekend of it to see why Chattanooga’s own outdoor film festival has become a winter tradition.

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Career Connections invites on-campus employers to participate in a part-time job fair during Winter Welcome Week. The event will take place from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, in the University Center Tennessee Room.

The fair is an opportunity to meet students seeking part-time, on-campus positions and to bring new talent into your department. On-campus employers interested in participating can contact Community and Employer Relations Specialist Jillian Duke for registration details.

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Faculty, staff and students are invited to submit proposals for the UT Innovative Technologies Symposium, hosted by the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Office of Innovative Technologies. The three-day symposium will take place March 24-26 at the Knoxville Convention Center and will focus on shared IT challenges, skills and emerging ideas across higher education in Tennessee.

The goal is to raise awareness and encourage proposal submissions by Friday, Jan. 16. Additional details, proposal information and a media toolkit are available here.

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Join a community conversation with UTC’s Interior Architecture and Design program connected to the exhibition “Ghosts in the Walls: Preservation as Memory.” The event will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Association for Visual Arts on 30 Frazier Ave. Presented in partnership with Preserve Chattanooga, the event will feature a panel discussion with local preservationists Todd Morgan, Melissa Mortimer and Rachel Hunt.

The program will examine preservation efforts in Chattanooga, including successes and shortcomings of existing city ordinances, gaps in protections for historic structures and practical ways community members can engage in advocacy and influence local policy. The event is designed to inform, engage and encourage collective action to protect the city’s historic built environment.

Campus Updates

UTC Campus Recreation has launched the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund to expand access to Mocs Adventure Camp, one of the University’s youth summer programs. The fund will provide scholarship support for children who may not otherwise be able to attend the camp due to financial barriers, with a goal of supporting 25 campers this year.

Donations of any amount help make camp accessible to more families. As a thank you, the first 50 donors who give $50 or more will receive a limited-edition “This Shirt Did Some Good” T-shirt. Those whose children have previously attended Mocs Adventure Camp are also invited to share their camp stories to help highlight the program’s impact.

To learn more, make a gift or share a story, visit the Adventure Awaits Scholarship Fund page. Questions can be directed to MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu.

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UTC Veteran and Military Affairs has partnered with BJ’s Wholesale Club in Hixson to support the Holiday for Heroes campaign. The goal is to reach 200 memberships and raise funds for veteran and military-connected students as part of the Holiday for Heroes event series.

Participants can receive a discounted BJ’s membership while giving back to UTC Veteran and Military Affairs. To join, scan the QR code or click the flyer link, or call 800-313-8887 and use group code 827042 to ensure your sign-up counts toward UTC’s campaign.

Sign up here by Jan. 30 to secure pre-club opening discounts. Spread the word—every membership helps support our veterans.

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In August, the UTC campus experienced a criminal act intended to cause disruption, chaos and trauma. While similar incidents have impacted other institutions across the country, UTC was among the first targeted this academic year—serving as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and collective resilience.

At the direction of University administration, UTC will now require mandatory Active Violence Response Training for all regular full-time employees (faculty and staff) and affiliated staff (Aramark, Barnes & Noble and Canon). This marks the first year the training is mandatory for the campus community.

To assist in delivering the program, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) has partnered with Defend Systems, a life safety and security consulting firm specializing in active shooter response and emergency preparedness. The training will focus on emergency awareness, critical response actions and strategies that improve survivability. Click here to register for a session.

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The Office of Research Integrity has announced a new go-live date for DASH Research IRB: Monday, Feb. 16. Below are key deadlines to support the transition to the new submission system.

  • Monday, Jan. 5: Investigators are encouraged to submit new IRB applications by this date, though there is no formal cut-off.
  • Monday, Jan. 12: For studies expiring before Feb. 28, investigators who plan to continue the study should submit an application for changes by this date to avoid a lapse in approval.
  • Monday, Jan. 19: The IRB recommends returning any pending revisions by this date to allow adequate review time.
  • Tuesday, Jan. 27: Only IRB submissions that are fully approved by 5 p.m. will be moved into DASH Research IRB. Any submissions not approved by that time must be resubmitted in the new system after go-live.
  • Monday, Feb. 16: All new IRB applications must be submitted through the DASH Research IRB module.

For questions or assistance, contact Baley Whary at irb@utc.edu or 423-425-5867.

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Free short-term physical therapy services are available to UTC students, faculty and staff through the PT Pro Bono Clinic, led by physical therapy faculty and doctoral students. The clinic provides evaluations and treatment for a range of concerns, from ankle sprains to lingering back pain.

The clinic is located in University Health Services in Maclellan Gym and is open 8 a.m.-noon on Tuesdays and 1-5 p.m. on Thursdays. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 423-425-2266. Questions can be directed to ptclinic@utc.edu.

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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. The 2026-2027 cohort will begin coursework in May 2026. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details. 

UTC Newsroom

A lot of great things happened at UTC during the 2025 calendar year. We celebrated student and faculty research, welcomed new faces (including Chancellor Lori Bruce), broke ground on new buildings and commemorated big wins.

With so much happening across campus, the UTC newsroom published 427 stories over the course of the year. Here are our top 20 personal favorites in chronological order of website publication.

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Natale Mertens

UTC’s fall commencement ceremonies were a time for families to celebrate their students’ hard work and accomplishments. Natale Mertens graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the fall 2025 commencement, joining her three sisters as UTC alumni.

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Eric Meadows

Eric Meadows

Three recent graduates of UTC’s accelerated BAS-IT CyS program—Eric Meadows, Brennan Fugate and Ben Craig—spent the past year inside Unum, seeing how cybersecurity functions at one of the city’s largest employers and a Fortune 500 insurance company.

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Before winter break, UTC hosted its fourth annual Inventanooga competition, where middle and high school students pitched ideas to innovation leaders from the Chattanooga area.

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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:

  • Vice Chancellor for Research Reinhold Mann retired at the end of December. Mann helped shape a new era for the University’s research enterprise, building faculty capacity, deepening community partnerships, and advancing major strategic initiatives that elevated UTC’s role in regional innovation and discovery.
  • “When a faculty member is actively practicing their discipline through research, the classroom benefits. Students benefit,” Chancellor Lori Bruce said in a story initially published in Our Tennessee magazine. “When a student is getting to participate in the research and be at the cutting edge of their discipline, it’s even more powerful.”
  • Prior to NightinGala 2025, Dr. Cherry Guinn, Professor Emeritus Martha Butterfield and Professor Emeritus Barbara Norwood sat down with the UTC video team to reminisce about the founding of the University’s School of Nursing.

WUTC

The founding team at Cultra: Ethan Poliner, Jack Washburn, Jesus Miranda and Cooper Martin. Photo courtesy of Cultra.

The founding team at Cultra: Ethan Poliner, Jack Washburn, Jesus Miranda and Cooper Martin. Photo courtesy of Cultra.

A recent episode of WUTC’s Scenic Roots featured Cultra, a Chattanooga-based startup helping farmers make better use of soil data that guides planting decisions. Founded by Jack Washburn and Ethan Poliner, Cultra’s online platform is designed to bring clarity to information that has traditionally been scattered and difficult to use.
 

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