Updates and news for the week of November 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.
All aboard: Mocs to Memphis (and points in between)
The Mocs to Memphis (and points in between) initiative provides safe and affordable charter bus transportation during selected school breaks for UTC students living in Nashville, Jackson, Memphis or surrounding areas. The cost is $55 per seat for either one-way or round-trip travel.
Spring Break: Depart Saturday, March 20, and return Sunday, March 28.
Buses departing UTC will leave from Lancing Court on Terrell Owens Way at 9 a.m. Eastern time, with stops in Nashville, Jackson and Memphis. Return trips will leave Memphis at 11:30 a.m. Central time, stop in Jackson and Nashville, and arrive on campus at approximately 7 p.m. Eastern time.
Students are limited to one suitcase stored under the bus and one small carry-on item. A separate reservation is required for each trip, and students should use the personal email account and password they used when applying to UTC to purchase a ticket. Riders should also plan to arrive early at their pickup location and arrange for timely transportation from their drop-off location, as buses cannot wait with individual students. Click here for more information and to buy your ticket.
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UTC named one of Tennessee’s top universities for military-connected students
UTC has been recognized by Military Times as one of the nation’s top universities for veterans and military-connected students, placing second among Tennessee universities in the publication’s 2026 Best for Vets: Colleges rankings.
Military Times recognized 370 colleges and universities across the U.S. in this year’s rankings, up from 357 in 2025. The rankings evaluate how institutions serve service members, veterans and military families from application through graduation.
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Outstanding People of UTC
Dr. Kimberly Wingate (left) and Dr. Stephanie Brennan
Congratulations to UTC faculty and staff who received awards or submitted proposals for sponsored programs in October. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs announced that faculty and staff attracted $536,900 in external grant and contract awards during the month and submitted proposals for the potential to generate over $33,184,896 in external funding, if awarded.
Among those receiving awards in October were Dr. Kimberly Wingate and Dr. Stephanie Brennan (School of Education), who received $301,090 from the Tennessee Department of Education for the project titled “UTC Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program (RTAP) Expansion Grant Application.”
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Dr. Ashley Schilling
Dr. Ashley Schilling, the Sharon Vanderbilt Professor of Physical Therapy in the UTC Department of Physical Therapy, is researching pediatric movement. As a board-certified pediatric physical therapy specialist, she combined her passion for pediatric care with cycling to help identify appropriate adaptive cycling equipment for children with neuromuscular disabilities.
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UTC K-9 handlers Sgt. Aaron Bayer and Cpl. Ginger Dockery, law enforcement officers and first responders took part in an Operational K-9 Emergency Care and Transport course at UTC on Friday, Nov. 6, with a few UTC pre-veterinary students also attending.
Offered in partnership with the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine and LIFE FORCE Air Medical, the course combined classroom instruction with hands-on training in emergency care for working dogs. Topics included airway management, hemorrhage control, chest trauma, burns, poisonings and other medical emergencies.
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Dr. Courtney Crittenden (right) tables at a Love, Period. event. Photo courtesy of Courtney Crittenden.
In 2019, Dr. Courtney Crittenden led a Sunday school class at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Athens, Tennessee, which sparked an idea. A biblical passage about menstruation led her to research period poverty, or the lack of access to affordable menstrual products. Crittenden brought the issue to her church community, where four other women offered to help. Together, they founded Love, Period., a ministry that provides free menstrual products to people across East Tennessee.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
A Livability article about UTC’s computer science degree programs featured two-time UTC alum and TVA software engineer Cristian Rudas.
Director of the UTC Nanoengineering Center Murat Barisik was featured in a Science Magazine article about Tennessee’s expanding role in additive manufacturing technology.
Center for Regional Economic Research Director HowardWall spoke to the Times Free Press about future job gains in Chattanooga.
Mark Your Calendar
This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:
DATE: Sport vs. opponent, site, x p.m. SOCCER PLAYS AT FINLEY!!!
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Scrappy’s Market will offer free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on today (Nov. 17) on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will host Ladder or Lottery at 4:25 p.m. today (Nov. 17) in Derthick Hall. Dr. Gary Hoover will draw from his book to explore economic mobility, the social contract and how much control people have over their position on the economic spectrum.
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The cast of the UTC Theatre Co.’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” includes Thatcher Schulmeister (left) as Robin Goodfellow/Puck and Jacob Belcher as Nick Bottom. Photo courtesy of UTC Theatre Co.
The UTC Theatre Co.’s production of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” takes audiences from the ordered city of Athens into an enchanted forest where lovers, fairies and amateur actors collide.
Directed by Assistant Professor of Acting and Directing Drew Davidson, the production will be presented at 7:30 p.m. tonight (Nov. 17) through Saturday, Nov. 21, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Nov. 21, in the Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Fine Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office, either in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $20 for general admission (plus service fees) and $15 for students with a valid student ID and seniors.The Fine Arts Center is located at 752 Vine St. Parking is available in the adjacent Lupton Hall Parking Garage (700 Vine St.).
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The UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science and the City of Chattanooga GIS Division will co-host Chattanooga GIS Day 2026 from 10-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 701 E. M.L. King Blvd.
Andrew J. Van Slyke, an underwater archaeologist specializing in shipwrecks and maritime cultural landscapes, will present “Submerged Landscapes and Sunken Ships: Mapping the Underwater Cultural Heritage.” The presentation will explore how geospatial technology, marine remote sensing and GIS are used to discover, document and preserve submerged cultural heritage and historic shipwrecks, with examples from Jamaica and the Tennessee River in Chattanooga.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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.
The Pouring for Purpose Gallery will take place from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, in University Center Room 315, formerly the Chickamauga Room.
The gallery will showcase artwork created during the recent Pouring for Purpose painting event, with proceeds benefiting Bridge Outdoors.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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UTC faculty and staff are invited to try the Aquatic and Recreation Center for free on Tuesday, Dec. 1. Faculty and staff who purchase a membership that day can receive access for December and January for $25, the cost of a one-month membership.
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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.
Faculty and staff are invited to serve as marshals for UTC’s fall commencement ceremonies. Volunteers can indicate which ceremony or ceremonies they are available to support. Sign up to serve as a commencement marshal.
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Terrence Banks with his First Year Experience class.
A Moc’s First Year (AMFY) is seeking instructors interested in teaching a first-year seminar in fall 2027. AMFY courses help new students transition to UTC by building connections, supporting academic success and introducing students to campus resources and opportunities.
Instructors have the opportunity to develop meaningful connections with students in a small-class environment while sharing their expertise, interests and experiences. Returning instructors and those interested in teaching AMFY for the first time are encouraged to apply.
Instructor applications are due Friday, Dec. 11.Apply here. Visit the AMFY website for more information. For questions or to discuss the program, contact Dr. Delight Yokley.
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Spaces and scholarships are still available for a spring break study abroad experience from March 19-28, 2027.
Students will visit Auschwitz-Birkenau, meet with German and Polish Holocaust scholars, learn about Jewish life in Europe before and after the Holocaust, and examine how the past has been remembered and memorialized. Students from all majors are welcome and must enroll in HIST 3280, The Holocaust, during the spring semester. For more information, contact Dr. John Swanson.
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The Chattanooga AI Summit will bring together business leaders, educators and technology professionals on Thursday, Dec. 3, at Erlanger Park, home of the Chattanooga Lookouts.
The daylong event will explore how artificial intelligence is changing the workplace, education and the community, with speakers and interactive workshops covering AI tools, workplace integration, privacy and security, and technology adoption. Attendees will also learn about AI initiatives underway across Chattanooga, including work at UTC.
Higher education professionals from across Tennessee are invited to submit proposals highlighting innovative IT solutions, collaborations, research, education and more. Topics include:
AI in higher education
Leadership and professional development
Infrastructure and security
Research computing
Automation and application development
Teaching with technology
DASH and Oracle Cloud ERP
Proposals may be submitted for presentations, hands-on workshops or panel discussions.
The deadline to submit a proposal is Friday, Dec. 11.
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Math Kangaroo, an annual international mathematics competition for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, is returning to UTC. Registration is now open for the competition, which will take place from 5-6:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2027, in Grote Hall.
UTC’s competition center is open to Tennessee students in grades K-12 and has a capacity of 50 participants. Kindergarten students will take the Grade 1 test and must be able to read and work independently.
Regular registration is $20 through Thursday, Dec. 31, with late registration available for $35 from Friday, Jan. 1, through Monday, Feb. 1. All registered students will receive mathematical gifts and participation ribbons, with additional awards available for top performers nationally and statewide.
Click here to learn more and register. For questions, contact Dr. Tatiana Allen, UC Foundation Professor of Physics and associate department head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
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. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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.
UTC Newsroom
For first-generation college students at UTC, earning a degree means more than reaching graduation. It represents years of learning to navigate college, find support and build a path that once felt unfamiliar.
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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:
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IN Memoriam
Dr. Finn Bille, a former University of Tennessee at Chattanooga adjunct professor, poet and author, passed away Oct. 21, 2026, at the age of 84. Bille taught at UTC in both the English and Health and Human Services Departments from the late 1970’s through the early 1990’s. He also taught at Chattanooga State and the Baylor School. An accomplished writer and member of the Chattanooga Writers’ Guild, he was also known for his contributions to the region’s literary and educational communities. His 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.
November 10-16, 2026
Updates and news for the week of November 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 has been named a Top Veteran School by U.S. Veterans Magazine, recognizing UTC’s continued commitment to supporting veterans, military-connected students and their educational success.
The recognition appears in the magazine’s November 2026 issue, available in print and digital formats. U.S. Veterans Magazine identifies schools that demonstrate long-term commitment, measurable impact and support for veterans and transitioning service members.
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Mocs rewind to Y2K for Homecoming 2026
Homecoming King Mason Lowe (left) and Homecoming Queen Jayda Turner pose with Chancellor Lori Bruce.
UTC brought back the early 2000s for Homecoming 2026.The week of Y2K festivities wrapped up on Saturday when the Mocs faced Mercer University at Finley Stadium. Although UTC lost to the Bears 14-7 in overtime, the clear fall weather and Homecoming activities kept spirits high.
Jayda Turner and Mason Lowe took the crowns as UTC’s 2026 Homecoming Queen and King.The awards announcement, held during halftime of the football game, included the presentation of Public Service awards to Samantha Hite and Rachel Smalley.
Smalley, a sophomore business administration major from Lilburn, Georgia, is a Brock Scholar in the Honors College with a minor in nonprofit administration/public administration.She serves as community service specialist and director of philanthropy for Alpha Delta Pi sorority, where she has helped organize events supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities. She also serves on the Greek Cru executive board and as a Young Life leader. Her volunteer work includes Hurricane Helene relief efforts, IRONMAN Chattanooga and Scrappy’s Cupboard, among other organizations.
Hite, a senior pre-professional exercise and health science major from Mount Juliet, Tennessee, serves as a resident assistant, physiology supplemental instruction leader and campus ambassador. She is also involved in Sigma Kappa sorority, the Pre-Occupational and Physical Therapy Society, and Students Providing Aid.
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Millennium magic: A MOCS2K photo gallery
MOCS2K brought back flip phones, roller skates, CD artwork and early-2000s music to showcase school spirit. Photos in this gallery include UTC football facing Virginia Military Institute at Finley Stadium; the unveiling of the Homecoming Court; a Party Like a Moc-Star block party; banner and window painting; Donut Stop the Music; Terrell Owens’ return to campus; lip sync battles photographed by Ashlyn Yoes; and the Nov. 7 Homecoming game against Mercer. Click the link for the Flickr gallery.
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Volunteer for Blue and Gold Preview Day
Help welcome future Mocs to campus by volunteering for Blue and Gold Preview Day on Saturday, Nov. 14. Student volunteers will guide prospective students and families between campus tour stops, share their UTC experiences and help throughout the day. No tour guide experience is necessary.
Volunteers will receive a free T-shirt and lunch voucher, approximately four volunteer hours and priority consideration for students interested in becoming a UTC Campus Ambassador.
Interested students must attend one required information session at 4 p.m. today (Nov. 10) or Wednesday, Nov. 11, in the Admissions Tour Center on the second floor of the University Center, across from the POD Market. For questions, contact Nevaeh Morris.
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UTC advances proposed 90-credit-hour degrees
UTC is advancing plans for two proposed 90-credit-hour bachelor’s degrees designed to expand access to workforce-focused higher education in Tennessee. The proposed programs are designed to recognize professional training, reduce the cost of earning a degree and create career advancement opportunities for law enforcement and corrections professionals.
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) has determined that UTC’s proposed 90-credit-hour programs in Police Science and Corrections Science meet the criteria for focused baccalaureate degrees, allowing the University to begin the formal academic program approval process.
Outstanding People of UTC
Dr. Venkatesh Pulletikurthi
Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering Venkatesh Pulletikurthi arrived at UTC in August. Within weeks, he learned that research he began at Purdue University had resulted in a U.S. patent, opening another path for his work on urban airflows and energy sustainability for nextGen cities.
Pulletikurthi is one of five inventors on U.S. Patent No. 12,746,507 B2, issued for a “carbon capture entrainment system and method.” The work asks a practical question: What if wind turbines could do more than generate electricity?
The ranking recognizes UTC’s 100% online program for registered nurses who want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing while continuing to work and meet family responsibilities. The RN-BSN Gateway program includes 22 nursing credit hours completed over three semesters, or 12 months.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
Dr. Murat Barisik, director of the Nanoengineering Center and an associate professor of mechanical engineering, spoke to the Times Free Press about a $600,000 award to contribute advanced computational modeling expertise to an Army-supported research project
Clinical Assistant Professor of Social Work Mary Andrews joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss volunteering for the Remote Area Medical Clinic during their visit to Chattanooga.
Associate Professor of Political Science Jeremy Strickler spoke to Jed & JR Mornings and the Times Free Press about the midterm election results.
Associate Professor of Political Science Sarah Heise spoke to NewsChannel 9 about the midterm election results.
UTC alumnus and Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver Terrell Owens discussed Homecoming Week activities on NewsChannel 9.
Director of the Clarence T. Jones Observatory Steven Kline spoke to Jed & JR Mornings and the Times Free Press about the “Lights Out Chattanooga” event at Greenway Farm Park.
Data gathered on degus in central Chile by Dr. Loren Hayes, a professor in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, was featured in EurekAlert.
The Department of Philosophy and Religion will continue its “What’s the Big Idea?” faculty talk series with Dr. Jonathan Yaeger’s presentation, “Was America Founded as a Christian Nation?” from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. today (Nov. 10) in Lupton Hall Room 235. The event is open to all, and pizza will be provided.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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.
The Gary W. Rollins College of Business has upcoming events and opportunities focused on entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence and the economy.
Today (Nov. 10):The Economic Impact of AI, hosted by the Probasco Chair, will take place from 3:30-5 p.m. in Fletcher Hall Room 200. Bitcoin expert Jimmy Song will explore how advances in AI are reshaping productivity and the modern economy, including potential effects on growth, incentives and long-term economic trends.
Tuesday, Nov. 17:Ladder or Lottery will take place at 4:25 p.m. in Derthick Hall. Dr. Gary Hoover will draw from his book to explore economic mobility, the social contract and how much control people have over their position on the economic spectrum.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during a virtual information session at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11, via Zoom. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
The Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Geography will welcome Dr. Aldon D. Morris, Leon Forrest Emeritus Professor of Sociology and Black Studies at Northwestern University, for “Democracy in Crisis: Why We Need Emancipatory Sociology” at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11, in the Guerry Center Reading Room.
Morris is the award-winning author of “The Origins of the Civil Rights Movement” and “The Scholar Denied: W.E.B. Du Bois and the Birth of Modern Sociology.” A book signing will follow the lecture.
The event is free and open to the public. Sponsors include the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Geography; Africana Studies Program; Urban Studies Program; Black Faculty and Staff Association; Alpha Kappa Delta Sociology Honor Society; Department of Political Science and Public Service; and Division of Access and Engagement.
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The UTC Quantum Center will continue its Quantum Colloquium Series with Dr. Mohandas Pillai, assistant professor of mathematics at UTC, from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, in UTC Library Room 201.
Pillai will present “Near Soliton Dynamics for the Critical, 2-Equivariant Schrödinger Map Problem,” discussing collaborative research on soliton dynamics and recent progress related to the Landau-Lifshitz equation for ferromagnets.
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The Department of Chemistry, Career Connections and the American Chemical Society will host Chemistry Career Night from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, in Lupton Hall Room 120.
Local chemical industry representatives will discuss their career paths and the role of chemists in their companies. The event will include a Q&A and opportunities for job seekers to learn about local jobs and internships. Pizza and salad will be provided. Visit MocSync for more information.
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series will feature William Erickson on Friday, Nov. 13, sharing his work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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Scrappy’s Market will offer free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates.
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The cast of the UTC Theatre Co.’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” includes Thatcher Schulmeister (left) as Robin Goodfellow/Puck and Jacob Belcher as Nick Bottom. Photo courtesy of UTC Theatre Co.
The UTC Theatre Co.’s production of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” takes audiences from the ordered city of Athens into an enchanted forest where lovers, fairies and amateur actors collide.
Directed by Assistant Professor of Acting and Directing Drew Davidson, the production will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17-21, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Nov. 21, in the Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Fine Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office, either in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $20 for general admission (plus service fees) and $15 for students with a valid student ID and seniors.The Fine Arts Center is located at 752 Vine St. Parking is available in the adjacent Lupton Hall Parking Garage (700 Vine St.).
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The UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science and the City of Chattanooga GIS Division will co-host Chattanooga GIS Day 2026 from 10-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 701 E. M.L. King Blvd.
Andrew J. Van Slyke, an underwater archaeologist specializing in shipwrecks and maritime cultural landscapes, will present “Submerged Landscapes and Sunken Ships: Mapping the Underwater Cultural Heritage.” The presentation will explore how geospatial technology, marine remote sensing and GIS are used to discover, document and preserve submerged cultural heritage and historic shipwrecks, with examples from Jamaica and the Tennessee River in Chattanooga.
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UTC faculty and staff are invited to try the Aquatic and Recreation Center for free on Tuesday, Dec. 1. Faculty and staff who purchase a membership that day can receive access for December and January for $25, the cost of a one-month membership.
Campus Updates
The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs is preparing for the UT System’s transition from Cayuse to the DASH Research Huron Grants and Agreements modules for sponsored projects. The new modules will go live in early December.
A webinar on the transition will take place at noon on Friday, Nov. 13. The session will cover proposal routing, award management and requesting agreements in DASH Research, along with a step-by-step demonstration of key functions. Click hereto learn more and to register.
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The UTC community continues to make a difference through the 1886 Challenge, with faculty, staff and students contributing 9,241 volunteer hours toward the University’s goal of 18,860 hours in celebration of its 140th anniversary.
Recent Halloween festivities brought a wave of volunteer submissions, highlighting the many ways Mocs are giving back. Pictured above, members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Mariame Coulibaly, Asani Knox, Messiah Underwood and Amani Wilson, helped spread Halloween cheer by distributing candy to children and families at Orchard Knob Middle School’s Trunk-or-Treat event.
UTC Admissions is looking for enthusiastic, dependable and outgoing students to join the Campus Ambassador team. Campus Ambassadors lead campus tours, assist with Admissions events and share their UTC experiences with prospective students and families.
Interested students should apply here by Saturday, Nov. 14. Selected applicants will be invited to interview. For questions, contact Mattie Mills.
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The Mocs to Memphis (and points in between) initiative provides safe and affordable charter bus transportation during selected school breaks for UTC students living in Nashville, Jackson, Memphis or surrounding areas. The cost is $55 per seat for either one-way or round-trip travel.
Spring Break: Depart Saturday, March 20, and return Sunday, March 28.
Buses departing UTC will leave from Lancing Court on Terrell Owens Way at 9 a.m. Eastern time, with stops in Nashville, Jackson and Memphis. Return trips will leave Memphis at 11:30 a.m. Central time, stop in Jackson and Nashville, and arrive on campus at approximately 7 p.m. Eastern time.
Students are limited to one suitcase stored under the bus and one small carry-on item. A separate reservation is required for each trip, and students should use the personal email account and password they used when applying to UTC to purchase a ticket. Riders should also plan to arrive early at their pickup location and arrange for timely transportation from their drop-off location, as buses cannot wait with individual students. Click here for more information and to buy your ticket.
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The Chattanooga AI Summit will bring together business leaders, educators and technology professionals on Thursday, Dec. 3, at Erlanger Park, home of the Chattanooga Lookouts.
The daylong event will explore how artificial intelligence is changing the workplace, education and the community, with speakers and interactive workshops covering AI tools, workplace integration, privacy and security, and technology adoption. Attendees will also learn about AI initiatives underway across Chattanooga, including work at UTC.
For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Math Kangaroo, an annual international mathematics competition for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, is returning to UTC. Registration is now open for the competition, which will take place from 5-6:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2027, in Grote Hall.
UTC’s competition center is open to Tennessee students in grades K-12 and has a capacity of 50 participants. Kindergarten students will take the Grade 1 test and must be able to read and work independently.
Regular registration is $20 through Thursday, Dec. 31, with late registration available for $35 from Friday, Jan. 1, through Monday, Feb. 1. All registered students will receive mathematical gifts and participation ribbons, with additional awards available for top performers nationally and statewide.
Click here to learn more and register. For questions, contact Dr. Tatiana Allen, UC Foundation Professor of Physics and associate department head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
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. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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.
UTC Newsroom
UTC launched a new Homecoming tradition last week with a parade through campus and a pep rally on Chamberlain Field that brought together students, alums, faculty, staff and members of the Chattanooga community.
Hundreds of people lined Vine Street as the parade began in Lot 52, traveled along Vine and turned near Brock Hall before making its way to Chamberlain Field. Twenty-six groups representing approximately 600 people registered to participate.
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Dennis Waters
Dennis Waters, a former placekicker for the UTC football team, returned to campus in 2024 as a corporal with UTCPD. The Mocs football team’s current placekicker, Jude Kelley, recently surpassed Waters (40) in career field goals made.
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Between 1945 and 1965, the University of Chattanooga’s student population more than doubled, from just under 1,000 to more than 2,000. During that rapid growth, the institution lacked an indoor facility large enough for campuswide gatherings and relied instead on outdoor spaces, nearby churches, and other venues for events such as commencement and convocations. This situation changed with the dedication of Maclellan Gymnasium in September 1965.
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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:
A college online search can only tell a family so much. On Saturday, Nov. 14, prospective students and their families can visit the UTC campus, meet the UTC community, explore academic options and learn what it’s like to be a Moc during Blue and Gold Preview Day.
The Scenic City Dark Sky Project, a collaboration between UTC’s Clarence T. Jones Observatory and the Barnard Astronomical Society of Chattanooga, invited the community to turn down the lights and look up during Lights Out Chattanooga at Greenway Farm Park.
WUTC
Neko Case
On WUTC’s “Chord Drift,” Paul Jorgensen spoke with singer-songwriter and New Pornographers member Neko Case ahead of her Neon Midnight Green Tour stop at The Signal in Chattanooga.
November 3-9, 2026
Updates and news for the week of November 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.
Homecoming 2026 is here! Students, alumni, faculty, staff and the Chattanooga community are invited to celebrate MOCS2K through Saturday, Nov. 7, with a week of events and UTC traditions.
The 4th Annual Homecoming Food Fight will take place through Saturday, Nov. 7, giving UTC students, faculty and staff the opportunity to support Scrappy’s Cupboard.
Homecoming Week will conclude with Mocs Football vs. Mercer at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Finley Stadium. Cheer on the Mocs during the Homecoming game and watch the halftime presentation, when the 2026 Homecoming King and Queen will be announced.
Visit the UTC Homecoming page for the full calendar of events, including a “Party Like a Moc-Star” block party, recycled CD painting, lip sync and much more.
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CHEER ON THE MOCS IN THE HOMECOMING PARADE
Mark your calendar to watch the Homecoming parade on Friday, Nov. 6. You are invited to line Vine Street at 4:30 p.m. to watch the parade that will come down the street beginning at 5 p.m. As the parade passes, follow the route to Chamberlain Field for a pep rally, which will include entertainment by DJ Redd and special guests Terrell “T.O.” Owens and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson. Food and drink vendors will be available for purchase. RSVP here to start your Homecoming weekend off in blue and gold style.
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Terrell Owens Returns to UTC for Homecoming 2026
Terrell Owens
UTC football legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Terrell Owens returns to Chattanooga for Homecoming 2026 with a week of community engagement and campus activities. Owens, a Mocs standout from 1992 to 1995, will visit local schools, reaching approximately 2,000 students with messages of perseverance and hard work.
On Friday, Nov. 6, Owens will host a meet-and-greet and launch his T.O. + UTC apparel collection from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at the Mocs Bookstore, followed by a documentary premiere and Q&A in the University Center Auditorium. He will also serve as a grand marshal of the 5 p.m. Homecoming Parade and help provide 1,000 complimentary game tickets to local students, teachers and families.
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UTC Selected for National Mobility Design Challenge
UTC’s SAE CivicProgress Challenge team poses with the rolling chassis provided by General Motors. Top row, from left: Morgan Zukas, Ryan Haye, Phoenix Moore, Logan Pendergrass, Carson Hendricks, UC Foundation Professor Trevor Elliott and Dr. James Newman, head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Bottom row, from left: Nathan Moser, Joseph Dawson and Garren Lockhart. Photo by Angela Foster.
UTC was one of 12 universities nationwide selected to participate in the SAE CivicProgress Challenge, a multi-year design challenge focused on developing mobility solutions for wheelchair users and other people with disabilities. SAE International, in collaboration with General Motors, created the challenge, emphasizing “innovation, accessibility and sustainable mobility while preparing students for real-world engineering challenges.”
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Complete the Student Experience Survey
Mocs students, you will be receiving an email this week about the Student Experience Survey. This survey is administered to all students across the UT System to learn about your current needs, well-being and preferences, and we need everyone’s help in completing the five-minute questionnaire. Click here to go to the survey. Student feedback informs us about the Mocs experience and helps identify opportunities for the future. Students are encouraged to complete the survey by Friday, Nov. 6.
Outstanding People of UTC
Dr. Murat Barisik
UTC’s Nanoengineering Center, a research center within the UTC Research Institute, has received a $600,000 award to contribute advanced computational modeling expertise to an Army-supported research project focused on developing and manufacturing advanced materials for demanding applications. Dr. Murat Barisik, director of the Nanoengineering Center and an associate professor of mechanical engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, is leading UTC’s work on the project.
The award, announced at the MHA’s annual conference in Kansas City, Missouri, recognizes an individual or organization that has made significant, innovative contributions to a mobile health program and the field.
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UTC’s Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science, including Director Charlie Mix and Assistant Director Nyssa Hunt, was featured by Esri for their use of imagery and geoAI to guide urban tree canopy restoration in Chattanooga. Mix was also introduced by Esri as a judge in the 2026 ArcGIS StoryMaps Competition.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
A Teknovation.biz article featured students Katelyn Hamilton and Autumn Reagan, who participated in the UTC fall research pitch competition.
Vice Provost for Academic AffairsElizabeth O’Brien joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss how parents should handle their children seeing distressing content in the news.
Heather Thach, learning technology specialist in UTC’s Walker Center for Teaching and Learning, spoke to Local 3 News about the future of AI in the workplace.
A Times Free Press article mentioned UTC’s national recognition for transportation technology research, including its third-place finish in a U.S. Department of Transportation competition.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political ScienceSaeid Golkar spoke to The Wall Street Journal and Al Jazeera about the war in Iran.
Center for Regional Economic Research Director HowardWall talked to NewsChannel 9 about sales tax in Catoosa County.
Mark Your Calendar
Photo credit: Ray Soldano
This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:
Thursday, Nov. 5: Volleyball vs. Mercer, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 6: Volleyball vs. Mercer, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 7: Men’s Tennis UTC Alumni Match, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Saturday, Nov. 7: Women’s Tennis UTC Alumni Day, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Saturday, Nov. 7: Football vs. Mercer, Finley Stadium, 1 p.m.
Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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The Keese Lecture Series will welcome Lucas Cameron-Vaughn, legal director of the ACLU of Tennessee, for “Inside a Supreme Court Case” at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 5, in the Guerry Center Reading Room.
Cameron-Vaughn will discuss his involvement in United States v. Skrmetti, a Supreme Court case concerning gender-affirming care, and share his perspective on constitutional litigation and civil rights advocacy.
The event is co-sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences, UTC Honors College, Walker Center for Teaching and Learning, Department of History, and the Women, Gender and Sexuality studies program. It is open to all UTC community members, and no registration is required.
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Myra Ann Thomas, Travis Chapel Methodist Church, Cleveland, Georgia, 2016. Photo by Chris Aluka Berry.
Berry and Navies will take part in “Affrilachia: Testimonies in Text and Image” on Thursday, Nov. 5. A reception will begin at 5 p.m. at ICA Chattanooga, followed by a public conversation at 6 p.m. in the Card Family Auditorium. Berry will return for a First Friday book signing from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6.
“Affrilachia: Testimonies,” an eight-year photographic survey of Black Appalachian life and culture, will be on display through Friday, Dec. 4, at ICA Chattanooga in the Fine Arts Center.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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.
Love history? Explore careers in digital curation, archives and libraries during an online panel discussion at 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6, via Zoom.
Panelists Carolyn Runyon, director of Special Collections at the UTC Library; Al Salatka, director of Acquisitions and Content Management at the UTC Library; and Yingying Han, assistant professor in the UT Knoxville School of Information Sciences, will discuss their career paths, advice for current students and graduate school opportunities, including UT Knoxville’s ALA-accredited MSIS program.
This year’s theme, “Work in an Age of Division: Understanding and Addressing Social and Political Tensions at Work,” will explore how social and political divisions affect the workplace.
Visit the conference website for the full schedule, speaker information and registration details. For questions, contact Dr. Chris Cunningham, conference chair.
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Join Mocs Recovery for the next Recovery Allyship Training for faculty and staff from 10-11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, in the Center for Wellbeing’s new location, University Center Room 318. Attendees should enter through the foyer in Room 316.
Register through K@TE. Student Recovery Allyship sessions will launch this spring, with more information to come through MocSync.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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The UTC School Psychology Program will celebrate National School Psychology Week with an open house from 3:30-5:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, in Hunter Hall Room 104.
This year’s National School Psychology Week theme, “Inspire Connection,” highlights the role school psychologists play in building relationships that support students, families and school communities. Attendees can tour the School Psychology suite and libraries, examine assessment materials, connect with current students and enjoy free snacks. For questions, email Amanda Hardin or call 423-425-4540.
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The George C. Connor Professorship and Department of English will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ernest Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises” with a free public lecture at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
Dr. Suzanne del Gizzo, editor-in-chief of “The Hemingway Review,” will discuss the novel’s enduring legacy before joining UTC professors Andrew McCarthy and Aaron Shaheen for a panel discussion.
The event will also serve as a preview of Take Five 2027, themed “the passage of time,” with next year’s presenters and book selections announced that evening. The Mocs Bookstore will have all five books available for purchase before and after the event. Click here to learn more.
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The Department of Philosophy and Religion will continue its “What’s the Big Idea?” faculty talk series with Dr. Jonathan Yaeger’s presentation, “Was America Founded as a Christian Nation?” from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10, in Lupton Hall Room 235. The event is open to all, and pizza will be provided.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business has upcoming events and opportunities focused on entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence and the economy.
Tuesday, Nov. 10:The Economic Impact of AI, hosted by the Probasco Chair, will take place from 3:30-5 p.m. in Fletcher Hall Room 200. Bitcoin expert Jimmy Song will explore how advances in AI are reshaping productivity and the modern economy, including potential effects on growth, incentives and long-term economic trends.
Tuesday, Nov. 17:Ladder or Lottery will take place at 4:25 p.m. in Derthick Hall. Dr. Gary Hoover will draw from his book to explore economic mobility, the social contract and how much control people have over their position on the economic spectrum.
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series will feature William Erickson on Friday, Nov. 13, sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The UTC Theatre Co.’s production of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” takes audiences from the ordered city of Athens into an enchanted forest where lovers, fairies and amateur actors collide.
Directed by Assistant Professor of Acting and Directing Drew Davidson, the production will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17-21, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Nov. 21, in the Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Fine Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office, either in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $20 for general admission (plus service fees) and $15 for students with a valid student ID and seniors.The Fine Arts Center is located at 752 Vine St. Parking is available in the adjacent Lupton Hall Parking Garage (700 Vine St.).
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The UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science and the City of Chattanooga GIS Division will co-host Chattanooga GIS Day 2026 from 10-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 701 E. M.L. King Blvd.
Andrew J. Van Slyke, an underwater archaeologist specializing in shipwrecks and maritime cultural landscapes, will present “Submerged Landscapes and Sunken Ships: Mapping the Underwater Cultural Heritage.” The presentation will explore how geospatial technology, marine remote sensing and GIS are used to discover, document and preserve submerged cultural heritage and historic shipwrecks, with examples from Jamaica and the Tennessee River in Chattanooga.
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UTC faculty and staff are invited to try the Aquatic and Recreation Center for free on Tuesday, Dec. 1. Faculty and staff who purchase a membership that day can receive access for December and January for $25, the cost of a one-month membership.
Campus Updates
Help welcome future Mocs to campus by volunteering for Blue and Gold Preview Day on Saturday, Nov. 14. Student volunteers will guide prospective students and families between campus tour stops, share their UTC experiences and help throughout the day. No tour guide experience is necessary.
Volunteers will receive a free T-shirt and lunch voucher, approximately four volunteer hours and priority consideration for students interested in becoming a UTC Campus Ambassador.
Interested students must attend one required information session at 4 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9; Tuesday, Nov. 10; or Wednesday, Nov. 11, in the Admissions Tour Center on the second floor of the University Center, across from the POD Market. For questions, contact Nevaeh Morris.
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UTC Admissions is looking for enthusiastic, dependable and outgoing students to join the Campus Ambassador team. Campus Ambassadors lead campus tours, assist with Admissions events and share their UTC experiences with prospective students and families.
Interested students should apply here by Saturday, Nov. 14. Selected applicants will be invited to interview. For questions, contact Mattie Mills.
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The Mocs to Memphis (and points in between) initiative provides safe and affordable charter bus transportation during selected school breaks for UTC students living in Nashville, Jackson, Memphis or surrounding areas. The cost is $55 per seat for either one-way or round-trip travel.
Spring Break: Depart Saturday, March 20, and return Sunday, March 28.
Buses departing UTC will leave from Lancing Court on Terrell Owens Way at 9 a.m. Eastern time, with stops in Nashville, Jackson and Memphis. Return trips will leave Memphis at 11:30 a.m. Central time, stop in Jackson and Nashville, and arrive on campus at approximately 7 p.m. Eastern time.
Students are limited to one suitcase stored under the bus and one small carry-on item. A separate reservation is required for each trip, and students should use the personal email account and password they used when applying to UTC to purchase a ticket. Riders should also plan to arrive early at their pickup location and arrange for timely transportation from their drop-off location, as buses cannot wait with individual students. Click here for more information and to buy your ticket.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Math Kangaroo, an annual international mathematics competition for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, is returning to UTC. Registration is now open for the competition, which will take place from 5-6:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2027, in Grote Hall.
UTC’s competition center is open to Tennessee students in grades K-12 and has a capacity of 50 participants. Kindergarten students will take the Grade 1 test and must be able to read and work independently.
Regular registration is $20 through Thursday, Dec. 31, with late registration available for $35 from Friday, Jan. 1, through Monday, Feb. 1. All registered students will receive mathematical gifts and participation ribbons, with additional awards available for top performers nationally and statewide.
Click here to learn more and register. For questions, contact Dr. Tatiana Allen, UC Foundation Professor of Physics and associate department head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
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. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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.
UTC Newsroom
For a Halloween Week class, Belmin Kojic (in white T-shirt) and Braden Tomlinson came as skateboarders, fellow student Jim Green was a dinosaur and Dr. JW Bruce dressed as Carl from the movie “Up.”
Every Monday this fall, UTC juniors Belmin Kojic and Braden Tomlinson have arrived for Professor of Electrical Engineering JW Bruce’s Embedded Systems class with more than laptops and coursework. They come in costume.
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UTC Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthesia students traveled to Guaymaca, Honduras, in late September as part of a medical mission with Commissioned International. The team provided surgical care to women from across Honduras, including a patient who had lived for two years with complications from an unrepaired childbirth injury.
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Dr. Kristin Pope
Dr. Kristin Pope wants you to get a job. As director of Career Connections at UTC, Pope and her staff help students and alums take the first steps into their careers.
Students dance in Lisa Bellino’s First Year Experience Ballet class in the ARC.
From exploring Chattanooga through community service to discussing true crime, students at UTC can find a learning community that connects their interests with their first-year college experience. A Moc’s First Year learning communities give students unique opportunities to experience community outreach and build connections as they adjust to campus life. Each learning community allows students to explore interests related to their majors.
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The fifth annual Power C Tour made its final stop of 2026 in Chattanooga, bringing prospective students and their families together with UTC faculty, staff and current students.
The statewide initiative traveled to Memphis, Knoxville and the Nashville area this fall, giving attendees a chance to explore academic programs, admissions, financial aid, housing and campus life.
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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:
UTC raised $2,764,195 from 2,671 donors during its seventh annual Mocs Give Day, setting a new participation record for the University’s annual day of giving. UTC exceeded both its fundraising goal and its goal of 2,500 donors, with gifts supporting scholarships, academic programs, Athletics and other priorities across campus.
UTC hosted the second Point On Wave Applications (POWA) Conference recently, bringing more than three times as many participants as the inaugural event and reinforcing the growing interest in using high-resolution electrical data to strengthen the power grid.
WUTC
On WUTC’s “Scenic Roots,” Isaiah Smallman, creative director of the Chattanooga History Experience, talked about the downtown pop-up and how it shares stories from Chattanooga and Hamilton County’s history.
October 27-November 2, 2026
Updates and news for the week of October 27-November 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.
Your voice matters. What’s it really like to be a student at UTC? The UT System Student Experience Survey gives you a chance to tell us what’s working, what could be better and what you want UTC to know. It takes about 5-7 minutes, and your responses are confidential. Check your student email for the survey invitation and share your experience.
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HOMECOMING 2026 IS COMING SOON
Homecoming 2026 is almost here! Students, alumni, faculty, staff and the Chattanooga community are invited to celebrate MOCS2K from Saturday, Oct. 31, through Saturday, Nov. 7, with a week of events and UTC traditions.
The 4th Annual Homecoming Food Fight will take place Sunday, Nov. 1, through Saturday, Nov. 7, giving UTC students, faculty and staff the opportunity to support Scrappy’s Cupboard. Offices, departments and campus organizations can compete in the friendly donation competition throughout the week. Click here to sign up by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. Only one representative from each participating group should register. For questions, contact scrappyscupboard@utc.edu.
Homecoming Week will conclude with Mocs Football vs. Mercer at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Finley Stadium. Cheer on the Mocs during the Homecoming game and watch the halftime presentation, when the 2026 Homecoming King and Queen will be announced.
Visit the UTC Homecoming page for the full calendar of events, including banner painting, a “Party Like a Moc-Star” block party, recycled CD painting, lip sync and much more.
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BRING MOCS2K TO LIFE IN HOMECOMING DECORATING COMPETITION
Compete in this year’s Homecoming Decorating Competition. Think Y2K nostalgia meets Mocs spirit with flip phones, CDs, retro gaming, metallics, neon, blue and gold, Scrappy, UTC traditions and more.
Students, faculty, staff, offices, departments and residence hall communities are invited to show their creativity and UTC spirit in five categories:
Individual Office/Workspace
Office Suite/Department Common Area
Residence Hall Common Space
Residence Hall Door
Residence Hall Balcony
Registration closes at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. Click here to review category requirements and register. Contact engage@utc.edu with questions.
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CHEER ON THE MOCS IN THE HOMECOMING PARADE
Mark your calendar to watch the Homecoming parade on Friday, Nov. 6. You are invited to line Vine Street at 4:30 p.m. to watch the parade that will come down the street beginning at 5 p.m. As the parade passes, follow the route to Chamberlain Field for a pep rally. Food and drink vendors will be available for purchase. RSVP here to start your Homecoming weekend off in blue and gold style.
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THE POWER C TOUR IS COMING HOME
The fifth annual Power C Tour returns to campus from 6-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at the Aquatic and Recreation Center. High school students and their families can learn about UTC academic programs, admissions, financial aid, housing and campus life while connecting with representatives from across the University. The event will also feature light refreshments, prizes and an opportunity to enter a drawing for UTC scholarships.
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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
It is time to recruit campus partners to send 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—including upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28. The November newsletter will be emailed to members on Wednesday, Nov. 4.
Please keep submissions to one paragraph of 200 (or fewer) words.
Images or logos to accompany the paragraph may be submitted.
Before joining UTC in 2007, Dr. Amy Doolittle and her husband spent the first 24 years of their marriage in pastoral ministry, serving churches in Georgia, Alaska and Kentucky.
During that time, Doolittle saw members of their congregations age and sometimes lose their connection to the communities they had once been part of.
Doolittle, an associate professor and director of the Master of Social Work program, spent her fall 2025 professional development leave exploring the role churches can play in supporting people with dementia and their caregivers.
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UTC Department of Computer Science and Engineering researchers Jingbo Wang, left, Dr. Shaogang Ren, Kegeng Tang and Dr. Zihao Wang stand before a presentation about their NeurIPS-accepted paper, “SCDM: Scalable Causal Discovery in Nonlinear Temporal Systems with Meta-Learning.” Photo by Hannah Godel.
The paper, “SCDM: Scalable Causal Discovery in Nonlinear Temporal Systems with Meta-Learning,” was accepted to the 2026 Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS). The conference is scheduled to take place in Sydney, Atlanta and Paris in December.
The UTC authors are Ph.D. students Jingbo Wang and Kegeng Tang; Dr. Zihao Wang, assistant professor and associate graduate program coordinator; and Dr. Shaogang Ren, assistant professor and graduate program coordinator.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
Head of UTC’s Department of Criminal Justice Rick Dierenfeldt spoke to News Channel 9 about plans for the new federal courthouse. News 12 Now quoted Chancellor Lori Bruce about the courthouse.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Sociology Chandra Ward and UTC’s new urban studies minor was featured by the Times Free Press.
Director of the Institute of Contemporary Art Rebecca Brantley spoke to the Times Free Press about the Chris Aluka Berry and Kelly Elaine Navies exhibit.
Adjunct faculty member in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science Dawn Ford joined Jed & JR to discuss climate change.
Head of the Department of Chemistry Keenan Dungey discussed how spray foam insulation may have caused a flash fire in Walker County for News Channel 9.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Civil Engineering Jejal Bathi spoke to News Channel 9 about two sewer spills in South Chickamauga Creek.
Sgt. Aaron Bayer and UTC Police Chief Sean O’Brien spoke to NewsChannel 9 about Lucky, UTC’s newest K-9. News 12 Now spoke to Bayer and Cpl. Ginger Dockery about Lucky and Sophie.
Director of Student Success Programs Melissa Laseter discussed Transfer Student Week with News 12 Now.
The Chattanoogan congratulated the 2026-2027 John C. Stophel Distinguished Students from the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, including Dylan DeHart, Reagan Frase, Ainsley Henderson, Jayda Turner and Briana White.
Center for Regional Economic Research Director HowardWall wrote a white paper on small business trends in Chattanooga. He spoke to the Times Free Press about his research. Wall also spoke to News Channel 9 about workforce training and job barriers.
News 12 Now covered the opening of UTC’s new outdoor fitness space, The Flight Deck.
Strategic Enrollment Technology will host open Reach CRM training sessions for faculty and staff interested in learning more about the platform. Sessions will focus on application review, prospect data, applications and inquiry forms. The in-person, follow-along training will take place in UTC Library computer labs, with computers provided. Current access to Reach is recommended.
Each session will include time for questions about the CRM. For questions before a session, email SETAdmin@utc.edu.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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.
Interested in launching a career in enterprise computing, cybersecurity, cloud or AI? Join the IBM Z Career Connection to learn about opportunities in the IBM Z ecosystem, connect with industry professionals and discover pathways to internships and careers in one of the world’s most critical technology platforms.
The event, taking place today (Oct. 27) is free and open to all UTC students, faculty and staff. RSVP on MocSync to reserve your spot.
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The Mocs Bookstore, in partnership with UTC Alumni, will host a 2026 graduation celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Mocs Bookstore.
Graduating students can pick up pre-ordered regalia or purchase regalia, have cap and gown photos taken by a photographer, order class rings and announcements, and connect with campus departments for help with graduation needs. Students can also register for door prizes.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business has several upcoming events and opportunities focused on entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence and the economy.
Wednesday, Oct. 28: CRER Panel: Data Centers at 11:30 a.m. in the Wolford Family Athletic Center. The Center for Regional Economic Research and Chattanooga Chamber will host a panel on the economic implications of data centers in the region, featuring representatives from Tennessee Valley Authority, EPB and the Jackson County Economic Development Authority. The discussion will be moderated by CRER Director Howard Wall and hosted by Charles Wood of the Chattanooga Chamber.
Thursday, Oct. 29: Applications are due for the Fly Pitch Competition, which gives participants the opportunity to pitch a business idea for a chance to win up to $3,500 in grants. The competition will take place at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Tuesday, Nov. 10:The Economic Impact of AI, hosted by the Probasco Chair, will take place from 3:30-5 p.m. in Fletcher Hall Room 200. Bitcoin expert Jimmy Song will explore how advances in AI are reshaping productivity and the modern economy, including potential effects on growth, incentives and long-term economic trends.
Tuesday, Nov. 17:Ladder or Lottery will take place at 4:25 p.m. in Derthick Hall. Dr. Gary Hoover will draw from his book to explore economic mobility, the social contract and how much control people have over their position on the economic spectrum.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Wednesday, Oct. 28: 4 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109
Join Dr. Dawn Ford, UTC adjunct faculty member and member of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps, for “Today’s Climate Reality: Chattanooga and Beyond” from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, in Lupton Hall Room 120.
The presentation will be followed by a panel discussion featuring local climate leaders from UTC’s IGT Lab, the Sierra Club, the City of Chattanooga’s Office of Sustainability, and UTC’s Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs. Refreshments will be provided.
The symposium will bring together faculty from across the humanities and social sciences to share AI-related research, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The schedule includes:
9:30-10 a.m.: A cross-disciplinary conversation about the new AI Certificate being developed by the College of Arts and Sciences.
10:10-11:45 a.m.: Faculty research presentations from Zachary Simoni, Chandra Ward, Andrew J. Van Slyke, Marcus D. Mauldin and Nagwan R. Zahry.
1:35-2:20 p.m.: Faculty research presentations from Chris Vidmar, Rowan Johnson, Brandon Bouchillon and Jeremy Strickler.
The symposium will also feature guest speaker Hunter Heyck, director of the Center for Creativity and Authenticity in AI Cultural Production at the University of Oklahoma, who will discuss building interdisciplinary research teams and exploring opportunities for external funding.
Click here for more information and to view the event poster.
The UTC Quantum Center will host Dr. Lakmali Weerasena for its upcoming Quantum Colloquium Series from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, in UTC Library Room 435.
Weerasena will present “An End-to-End Quantum-Classical Framework for Combinatorial Optimization Using QAOA,” exploring a framework for quantum approximate optimization and factors that affect convergence and solution quality.
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Join UTC faculty experts for a discussion of Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation “The Odyssey” at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
The event will explore Homer’s poem and Nolan’s film and will include a Greek feast. Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions and their appetites.
The event is free and open to the public and is co-hosted by the SunTrust Chair of Excellence in the Humanities; the George C. Connor Professor of American Literature; the departments of Modern and Classical Literatures and Languages, English, History and Philosophy; and the College of Arts and Sciences.
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With the 2027-28 FAFSA opening Oct. 1, students can stop by the Financial Aid Office for free, in-person FAFSA support during FAFSA Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30. No appointment is needed.
Staff can help with questions, troubleshooting and figuring out next steps. Virtual FAFSA appointments are also available through the Financial Wellness Center. For more information, click here.
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The UTC Library’s annual Halloween Party and Costume Contest is back with snacks, candy, games and plenty of spooky fun. Stop by the first floor of the Library from 1-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, to take a break from the study grind and celebrate.
Students, faculty and staff are also invited to enter the Costume Contest for a chance to win prizes. Costume photos will be posted online, where Mocs can vote for their favorite student and faculty/staff costumes. The costumes with the most votes win.
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The Department of Chemistry will host its Fall 2026 Seminar Series from 3-4 p.m. on Fridays in Grote Hall Room 411. The series will continue on Friday, Oct. 30, with the Undergraduate Research Program Poster Session and Reception. The event is open to all.
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The Chattanooga Mocs men’s and women’s basketball programs will host their annual Halloween-themed Boo & Gold event on Friday, Oct. 30, at McKenzie Arena.
The free, family-friendly event will begin with trick-or-treating on the concourse from 5:30-6:20 p.m., followed by basketball activities from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fans can enjoy team introductions, shooting contests, games and other activities featuring both Mocs basketball programs.
The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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Myra Ann Thomas, Travis Chapel Methodist Church, Cleveland, Georgia, 2016. Photo by Chris Aluka Berry.
Berry and Navies will take part in “Affrilachia: Testimonies in Text and Image” on Thursday, Nov. 5. A reception will begin at 5 p.m. at ICA Chattanooga, followed by a public conversation at 6 p.m. in the Card Family Auditorium. Berry will return for a First Friday book signing from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6.
“Affrilachia: Testimonies,” an eight-year photographic survey of Black Appalachian life and culture, will be on display through Friday, Dec. 4, at ICA Chattanooga in the Fine Arts Center.
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Join Mocs Recovery for the next Recovery Allyship Training for faculty and staff from 10-11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, in the Center for Wellbeing’s new location, University Center Room 318. Attendees should enter through the foyer in Room 316.
Register through K@TE. Student Recovery Allyship sessions will launch this spring, with more information to come through MocSync.
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The UTC School Psychology Program will celebrate National School Psychology Week with an open house from 3:30-5:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, in Hunter Hall Room 104.
This year’s National School Psychology Week theme, “Inspire Connection,” highlights the role school psychologists play in building relationships that support students, families and school communities. Attendees can tour the School Psychology suite and libraries, examine assessment materials, connect with current students and enjoy free snacks. For questions, email Amanda Hardin or call 423-425-4540.
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The George C. Connor Professorship and Department of English will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ernest Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises” with a free public lecture at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
Dr. Suzanne del Gizzo, editor-in-chief of “The Hemingway Review,” will discuss the novel’s enduring legacy before joining UTC professors Andrew McCarthy and Aaron Shaheen for a panel discussion.
The event will also serve as a preview of Take Five 2027, themed “the passage of time,” with next year’s presenters and book selections announced that evening. The Mocs Bookstore will have all five books available for purchase before and after the event. Click here to learn more.
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series will feature William Erickson on Friday, Nov. 13, sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science and the City of Chattanooga GIS Division will co-host Chattanooga GIS Day 2026 from 10-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 701 E. M.L. King Blvd.
Andrew J. Van Slyke, an underwater archaeologist specializing in shipwrecks and maritime cultural landscapes, will present “Submerged Landscapes and Sunken Ships: Mapping the Underwater Cultural Heritage.” The presentation will explore how geospatial technology, marine remote sensing and GIS are used to discover, document and preserve submerged cultural heritage and historic shipwrecks, with examples from Jamaica and the Tennessee River in Chattanooga.
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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.
The Mocs to Memphis (and points in between) initiative provides safe and affordable charter bus transportation during selected school breaks for UTC students living in Nashville, Jackson, Memphis or surrounding areas. The cost is $55 per seat for either one-way or round-trip travel.
Spring Break: Depart Saturday, March 20, and return Sunday, March 28.
Buses departing UTC will leave from Lancing Court on Terrell Owens Way at 9 a.m. Eastern time, with stops in Nashville, Jackson and Memphis. Return trips will leave Memphis at 11:30 a.m. Central time, stop in Jackson and Nashville, and arrive on campus at approximately 7 p.m. Eastern time.
Students are limited to one suitcase stored under the bus and one small carry-on item. A separate reservation is required for each trip, and students should use the personal email account and password they used when applying to UTC to purchase a ticket. Riders should also plan to arrive early at their pickup location and arrange for timely transportation from their drop-off location, as buses cannot wait with individual students. Click here for more information and to buy your ticket.
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Click here to read the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs Annual Report for the 2026 fiscal year.
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October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and with AI becoming part of daily work and coursework, it’s a good time to remember how to use these tools safely.
The most important thing to remember is that the type of information you share matters. Even University-supported AI tools have restrictions.
The UT System provides the AI Hub, offering access to leading AI models, including ChatGPT, Claude and Grok, with additional privacy and security protections. Other University-supported options include UT Verse and Microsoft Copilot.
Before entering information into any AI tool, be cautious with:
Personal information, such as Social Security numbers
Student records and financial information
Health or medical information
Confidential research and restricted data, including CUI
Check the AI Matrix to understand what information is approved for each tool.
Review privacy settings and avoid sharing unnecessary personal or University information.
Even the AI Hub has limitations. HIPAA-protected information and CUI should not be entered into the AI Hub.
When in doubt, check before you share. Contact the UTC IT Help Desk at ithelp@utc.edu with questions.
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The 2026 UT Administrative Professionals Summit (APS) will take place Wednesday, Nov. 11, through Friday, Nov. 13, at the Knoxville Convention Center. APS is a professional development conference designed for administrative professionals from UT and across industries to learn, connect and grow.
This year’s theme, “Learn! Lead! Excel!,” encourages attendees to embrace lifelong learning, lead from where they are and excel in their work. Through practical sessions, expert insights and peer networking, participants will gain skills, strategies and confidence for today’s evolving workplace.
Registration is $250 for UT employees using the case-sensitive code UTEmployee at checkout and $400 for non-UT employees. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 28. Click here to register.
Mocs students, you will be receiving an email this week about the Student Experience Survey. This survey is administered to all students across the UT System to learn about your current needs, well-being and preferences, and we need everyone’s help in completing the five-minute questionnaire. Click here to go to the survey. Student feedback informs us about the Mocs experience and helps identify opportunities for the future. Students are encouraged to complete the survey by Friday, Nov. 6.
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Students in the Innovations in Honors course are partnering with the City of Chattanooga to explore solutions to recycling challenges. One student team is studying recycling contamination and looking to better understand why it happens and how much people know about it.
UTC students, faculty and staff are invited to share their knowledge and experiences by completing the Recycling Interest Feedback Form.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Math Kangaroo, an annual international mathematics competition for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, is returning to UTC. Registration is now open for the competition, which will take place from 5-6:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2027, in Grote Hall.
UTC’s competition center is open to Tennessee students in grades K-12 and has a capacity of 50 participants. Kindergarten students will take the Grade 1 test and must be able to read and work independently.
Regular registration is $20 through Thursday, Dec. 31, with late registration available for $35 from Friday, Jan. 1, through Monday, Feb. 1. All registered students will receive mathematical gifts and participation ribbons, with additional awards available for top performers nationally and statewide.
Click here to learn more and register. For questions, contact Dr. Tatiana Allen, UC Foundation Professor of Physics and associate department head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
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. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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.
UTC Newsroom
Abby Borden
In the mountains of Peru, traditional weaving is a practice passed down through generations. Women gather to spin wool and create colorful textiles while sharing knowledge that has been part of their communities for centuries.Over the summer, UTC junior Abby Borden had the opportunity to learn from them.
Borden, an anthropology major and Brock Scholar in the UTC Honors College, spent a month conducting field research in Peru through the Institute for Field Research (IFR). Click here to read a Q&A with Borden and to see her photos.
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Katelyn Hamilton presented her research at the UTC University Center auditorium to an audience of peers and judges.
Last week, undergraduate and graduate students competed in the Fall 2026 Research Pitch Competition for scholarship prizes ranging from $250 to $750 and a People’s Choice Award. The competition was sponsored by the UTC Graduate School and the Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE).
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UTC student-athletes visit with Tommie F. Brown Academy students during Sports Camp Day at the UTC Aquatic and Recreation Center.
“Are we going to college today?” a Tommie F. Brown Academy student asked Stephanie Elgin during the walk from the elementary school to UTC’s Aquatic and Recreation Center.
“They were very excited,” said Elgin, Brown Academy’s Volkswagen eLab specialist and a 2005 UTC graduate.
The question set the tone as 46 Brown Academy students in kindergarten through fifth grade spent an hour at the ARC with 14 UTC student-athletes for Sports Camp Day.
The Flight Deck adds to students’ opportunities to be active beyond traditional fitness facilities and organized recreation programs. Located steps from where many students live and across McCallie Avenue from most of UTC’s residence halls, the facility expands outdoor recreation opportunities on campus.
WUTC
WUTC served as the official media partner for IBMA World of Bluegrass, bringing listeners live interviews and performances from the event. Click here to listen to WUTC’s coverage.
October 20-26, 2026
Updates and news for the week of October 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.
Your voice matters. What’s it really like to be a student at UTC? The UT System Student Experience Survey gives you a chance to tell us what’s working, what could be better and what you want UTC to know. It takes about 5-7 minutes, and your responses are confidential. Check your student email for the survey invitation and share your experience.
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BRING MOCS2K TO LIFE IN HOMECOMING DECORATING COMPETITION
Compete in this year’s Homecoming Decorating Competition. Think Y2K nostalgia meets Mocs spirit with flip phones, CDs, retro gaming, metallics, neon, blue and gold, Scrappy, UTC traditions and more.
Students, faculty, staff, offices, departments and residence hall communities are invited to show their creativity and UTC spirit in five categories:
Individual Office/Workspace
Office Suite/Department Common Area
Residence Hall Common Space
Residence Hall Door
Residence Hall Balcony
Registration closes at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. Click here to review category requirements and register. Contact engage@utc.edu with questions.
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CLOSING IN ON HALFWAY TO 18,860
The 1886 Challenge is nearing the halfway point, thanks in large part to a number of submissions last week highlighting members of the UTC community who volunteered at IRONMAN Chattanooga.
More than 100 UTC faculty, staff and students volunteered at one of Chattanooga’s biggest annual events, including the group of graduate athletic training students pictured above.
The 1886 Challenge calls on faculty, staff and students to collectively contribute 18,860 hours of community service during the 2026-27 academic year. The initiative highlights service already taking place across the University through volunteer work, mentoring, service-learning and outreach.
Faculty, staff and students who have volunteered in the community can submit their hours through the 1886 Challenge form and help move UTC closer to its goal. Submitted photos can also be viewed in the photo gallery at the top of the 1886 Challenge page.
The ranking organization identified UTC as a best-fit option for Chattanooga-area learners who prefer in-person cohorts. Its Tennessee rankings highlighted the program’s Council on Social Work Education accreditation, evening classes for working students, face-to-face instruction in Chattanooga, and a curriculum that addresses practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.
Outstanding People of UTC
Clockwise from top left: Dr. Hannah Barger, April Anderson, Dr. Kristen Singletary, Dr. Jenny Holcombe, Ken Scannapiego
Among those receiving awards in the first quarter were Dr. Hannah Barger, April Anderson, Dr. Kristen Singletary, Dr. Jenny Holcombe (Nursing), and Kenneth Scannapiego (Financial Aid), who received $649,999 from the Health Resources and Services Administration for the project titled “CARE Nursing Scholars: Cultivating Access and Readiness through Education.”
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
UC Foundation Professor in the Department of Music Jonathan McNair was featured in a Times Free Press story about Grammy-nominated artists in Chattanooga.
UTC’s newest therapy dog Lucky and his handler Sgt. Aaron Bayer were featured in Local 3 News.
Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Mina Sartipi was featured by a Teknovation.biz article about Tennessee’s quantum-ready professionals.
Sports Lab Coordinator and Assistant Professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance Joel Harden spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about the sports lab.
Assistant Professor of Political Science Sarah Heise talked to Local 3 News about the use of AI for political purposes.
WUTC General Manager Susan Lazenby spoke to the Times Free Press about fundraising.
Join the Center for Global Education for International Education Week (IEW), which recognizes the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.
Each fall, the Center for Global Education celebrates IEW through special events related to international learning, leadership and exchange at UTC. IEW events celebrate cultural experiences, global awareness and the value that international scholars and students bring to campus communities. Attend the events below for an opportunity to have global experiences on UTC’s campus. Events are open to all students, faculty and staff.
The Gary W. Rollins College of Business has several upcoming events featuring conversations on artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and the regional economy.
Today (Oct. 20):JHFRC Speaker Event: AI and Well-Being at 10 a.m. in the Guerry Center Reading Room. Gopal Khanna will discuss how the latest AI capabilities can restructure the delivery of social services.
Wednesday, Oct. 21:Entrepreneurship Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. in the Wolford Center. Dr. Prevost, a licensed therapist, educational psychologist, board-certified professional coach and serial entrepreneur, will share her experience founding Big Self School and Emma AI.
Wednesday, Oct. 28:CRER Panel: Data Centers at 11:30 a.m. in the Wolford Center. The Center for Regional Economic Research and Chattanooga Chamber will host a panel on the economic implications of data centers in the region, featuring representatives from Tennessee Valley Authority, EPB and the Jackson County Economic Development Authority. The discussion will be moderated by CRER Director Howard Wall and hosted by Charles Wood of the Chattanooga Chamber.
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Meet employers looking for talent across communication, journalism, public relations and media at the UTC Communication Career and Internship Expo from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. today (Oct. 20) in the University Center Tennessee Room. The expo is open to students of all majors and minors.
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The next Staff Senate meeting will take place from 3-5 p.m. today (Oct. 20) in the Wolford Family Athletic Center and via Zoom. Free snacks and refreshments will be provided. Click here to join via Zoom.
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An eight-week summer 2027 business research internship opportunity in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is available for up to five UTC students.
Dr. Robert Dooley, dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, will lead the information sessions. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to COBInternational@utc.edu. The application deadline is Sunday, Nov. 1. Click here for more information and to apply.
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Bloodanooga is coming to UTC from 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, and Thursday, Oct. 22, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
Each blood donation can help save up to three lives in the Chattanooga community and will count as two service hours toward UTC’s 1886 Challenge goal of 18,860 service hours. Donors will also have the chance to win gift cards, free facials, UTC meal vouchers and more.
Grab a friend, reserve a time and help support local hospital patients. Click here to make an appointment.
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Hear from UTC political science professors Drs. Chris Acuff, Sarah Heise and Jeremy Strickler during a discussion of the 2026 midterm elections at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in University Center Room 230.
The discussion will explore the dynamics of election administration, what the latest polls reveal and possible outcomes for national governance.
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Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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The Department of Communication has launched “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring trust and community. The series will continue at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in Benwood Auditorium (ECS 230) with Robert D. Putnam presenting “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States.
The event is free and open to the public. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speaker can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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The Office of Title IX Compliance will host UTC’s annual Take Back the Night at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, on Chamberlain Field. Take Back the Night is an internationally recognized event that unites people in taking a stand against power-based violence. Those interested in volunteering can sign up here.
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Join the Department of Mathematics for a pumpkin carving and course preview from 3:30-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Engineering and Computer Science Room 422.
Students thinking about their spring courses can meet instructors, learn what they’ll be studying and get a sneak peek at upcoming courses. Math Club, Pi Mu Epsilon and AWM are teaming up for the event, which will also feature pumpkin carving and food.
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Dr. Lillian Frost of Virginia Tech University will present “Contemporary Crises of Citizenship in the Arab World” from 4:20-5:45 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Lupton Hall Room 242 as part of the Annual Middle Eastern and Asian Studies Lecture Series.
Frost will discuss contemporary citizenship challenges across the Arab world, including women’s rights in nationality laws, the rights of noncitizen residents, nationality-by-investment programs and increases in nationality revocations.
A reception with free Middle Eastern snacks will be held from 3-4 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 235. The event is free and open to the public.
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With the 2027-28 FAFSA opening Oct. 1, students can stop by the Financial Aid Office for free, in-person FAFSA support during FAFSA Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23 and Friday, Oct. 30. No appointment is needed.
Staff can help with questions, troubleshooting and figuring out next steps. Virtual FAFSA appointments are also available through the Financial Wellness Center. For more information, click here.
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series features a special speaker sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Friday, Oct. 23: Ayça Çetinkaya
Friday, Nov. 13: William Erickson
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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Strategic Enrollment Technology will host open Reach CRM training sessions for faculty and staff interested in learning more about the platform. Sessions will focus on application review, prospect data, applications and inquiry forms. The in-person, follow-along training will take place in UTC Library computer labs, with computers provided. Current access to Reach is recommended.
Each session will include time for questions about the CRM. For questions before a session, email SETAdmin@utc.edu.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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.
Interested in launching a career in enterprise computing, cybersecurity, cloud or AI? Join the IBM Z Career Connection to learn about opportunities in the IBM Z ecosystem, connect with industry professionals and discover pathways to internships and careers in one of the world’s most critical technology platforms.
The Tuesday, Oct. 27, event is free and open to all UTC students, faculty and staff. RSVP on MocSync to reserve your spot.
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The Mocs Bookstore, in partnership with UTC Alumni, will host a 2026 graduation celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Mocs Bookstore.
Graduating students can pick up pre-ordered regalia or purchase regalia, have cap and gown photos taken by a photographer, order class rings and announcements, and connect with campus departments for help with graduation needs. Students can also register for door prizes.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Wednesday, Oct. 28: 4 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109
Join Dr. Dawn Ford, UTC adjunct faculty member and member of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps, for “Today’s Climate Reality: Chattanooga and Beyond” from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, in Lupton Hall Room 120.
The presentation will be followed by a panel discussion featuring local climate leaders from UTC’s IGT Lab, the Sierra Club, the City of Chattanooga’s Office of Sustainability, and UTC’s Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs. Refreshments will be provided.
The symposium will bring together faculty from across the humanities and social sciences to share AI-related research, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The schedule includes:
9:30-10 a.m.: A cross-disciplinary conversation about the new AI Certificate being developed by the College of Arts and Sciences.
10:10-11:45 a.m.: Faculty research presentations from Zachary Simoni, Chandra Ward, Andrew J. Van Slyke, Marcus D. Mauldin and Nagwan R. Zahry.
1:35-2:20 p.m.: Faculty research presentations from Chris Vidmar, Rowan Johnson, Brandon Bouchillon and Jeremy Strickler.
The symposium will also feature guest speaker Hunter Heyck, director of the Center for Creativity and Authenticity in AI Cultural Production at the University of Oklahoma, who will discuss building interdisciplinary research teams and exploring opportunities for external funding.
Click here for more information and to view the event poster.
The UTC Quantum Center will host Dr. Lakmali Weerasena for its upcoming Quantum Colloquium Series from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, in UTC Library Room 435.
Weerasena will present “An End-to-End Quantum-Classical Framework for Combinatorial Optimization Using QAOA,” exploring a framework for quantum approximate optimization and factors that affect convergence and solution quality.
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Join UTC faculty experts for a discussion of Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation “The Odyssey” at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
The event will explore Homer’s poem and Nolan’s film and will include a Greek feast. Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions and their appetites.
The event is free and open to the public and is co-hosted by the SunTrust Chair of Excellence in the Humanities; the George C. Connor Professor of American Literature; the departments of Modern and Classical Literatures and Languages, English, History and Philosophy; and the College of Arts and Sciences.
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The UTC Library’s annual Halloween Party and Costume Contest is back with snacks, candy, games and plenty of spooky fun. Stop by the first floor of the Library from 1-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, to take a break from the study grind and celebrate.
Students, faculty and staff are also invited to enter the Costume Contest for a chance to win prizes. Costume photos will be posted online, where Mocs can vote for their favorite student and faculty/staff costumes. The costumes with the most votes win.
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The Chattanooga Mocs men’s and women’s basketball programs will host their annual Halloween-themed Boo & Gold event on Friday, Oct. 30, at McKenzie Arena.
The free, family-friendly event will begin with trick-or-treating on the concourse from 5:30-6:20 p.m., followed by basketball activities from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fans can enjoy team introductions, shooting contests, games and other activities featuring both Mocs basketball programs.
The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes.
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Join Scrappy’s Cupboard and Student Outreach and Support for the 4th Annual Homecoming Food Fight from Sunday, Nov. 1, through Saturday, Nov. 7. UTC students, faculty and staff are invited to compete in the friendly competition while giving back to Scrappy’s Cupboard, UTC’s on-campus food pantry.
Offices, departments and campus organizations can register to collect donations and compete in divisions for student organizations, fraternities and sororities, residence halls, faculty/staff departments, academic colleges and divisions, and Chattanooga community members and alumni.
Click here to sign up by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. Only one representative from each participating group should register. For questions, contact scrappyscupboard@utc.edu.
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The UTC Homecoming Parade is back in a new format. On Friday, Nov. 6, community members are invited to line Vine Street to watch the parade, then follow it to Chamberlain Pavilion for a pep rally featuring the UTC Marching Mocs, Spirit Squads, campus leadership and more.
The parade will begin at 5 p.m., and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from vendors on Chamberlain Field. Click here to RSVP to attend, or click here to register to participate in the parade.
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Myra Ann Thomas, Travis Chapel Methodist Church, Cleveland, Georgia, 2016. Photo by Chris Aluka Berry.
Berry and Navies will take part in “Affrilachia: Testimonies in Text and Image” on Thursday, Nov. 5. A reception will begin at 5 p.m. at ICA Chattanooga, followed by a public conversation at 6 p.m. in the Card Family Auditorium. Berry will return for a First Friday book signing from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6.
“Affrilachia: Testimonies,” an eight-year photographic survey of Black Appalachian life and culture, will be on display through Friday, Dec. 4, at ICA Chattanooga in the Fine Arts Center.
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The George C. Connor Professorship and Department of English will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ernest Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises” with a free public lecture at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
Dr. Suzanne del Gizzo, editor-in-chief of “The Hemingway Review,” will discuss the novel’s enduring legacy before joining UTC professors Andrew McCarthy and Aaron Shaheen for a panel discussion.
The event will also serve as a preview of Take Five 2027, themed “the passage of time,” with next year’s presenters and book selections announced that evening. The Mocs Bookstore will have all five books available for purchase before and after the event. Click here to learn more.
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The UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science and the City of Chattanooga GIS Division will co-host Chattanooga GIS Day 2026 from 10-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 701 E. M.L. King Blvd.
Andrew J. Van Slyke, an underwater archaeologist specializing in shipwrecks and maritime cultural landscapes, will present “Submerged Landscapes and Sunken Ships: Mapping the Underwater Cultural Heritage.” The presentation will explore how geospatial technology, marine remote sensing and GIS are used to discover, document and preserve submerged cultural heritage and historic shipwrecks, with examples from Jamaica and the Tennessee River in Chattanooga.
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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.
Lauren Naylor – Assistant Director of Equipment for Olympic Sports, Athletics Administration
Zsanett Williams – Nurse Practitioner, Counseling Center
Mallory Reid Jennings – Career Development Coordinator, CECS Dean’s Office
Campus Updates
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and with AI becoming part of daily work and coursework, it’s a good time to remember how to use these tools safely.
The most important thing to remember is that the type of information you share matters. Even University-supported AI tools have restrictions.
The UT System provides the AI Hub, offering access to leading AI models, including ChatGPT, Claude and Grok, with additional privacy and security protections. Other University-supported options include UT Verse and Microsoft Copilot.
Before entering information into any AI tool, be cautious with:
Personal information, such as Social Security numbers
Student records and financial information
Health or medical information
Confidential research and restricted data, including CUI
Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions will feature 16 graduate students competing in the Three Minute Thesis Competition and 19 undergraduate students competing in the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition in the University Center Auditorium. The program will also include speakers, People’s Choice Award audience participation and more. Click here to view the schedule of events.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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The 2026 UT Administrative Professionals Summit (APS) will take place Wednesday, Nov. 11, through Friday, Nov. 13, at the Knoxville Convention Center. APS is a professional development conference designed for administrative professionals from UT and across industries to learn, connect and grow.
This year’s theme, “Learn! Lead! Excel!,” encourages attendees to embrace lifelong learning, lead from where they are and excel in their work. Through practical sessions, expert insights and peer networking, participants will gain skills, strategies and confidence for today’s evolving workplace.
Registration is $250 for UT employees using the case-sensitive code UTEmployee at checkout and $400 for non-UT employees. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 28. Click here to register.
Mocs students, you will be receiving an email this week about the Student Experience Survey. This survey is administered to all students across the UT System to learn about your current needs, well-being and preferences, and we need everyone’s help in completing the five-minute questionnaire. Click here to go to the survey. Student feedback informs us about the Mocs experience and helps identify opportunities for the future. Students are encouraged to complete the survey by Friday, Nov. 6.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Math Kangaroo, an annual international mathematics competition for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, is returning to UTC. Registration is now open for the competition, which will take place from 5-6:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2027, in Grote Hall.
UTC’s competition center is open to Tennessee students in grades K-12 and has a capacity of 50 participants. Kindergarten students will take the Grade 1 test and must be able to read and work independently.
Regular registration is $20 through Thursday, Dec. 31, with late registration available for $35 from Friday, Jan. 1, through Monday, Feb. 1. All registered students will receive mathematical gifts and participation ribbons, with additional awards available for top performers nationally and statewide.
Click here to learn more and register. For questions, contact Dr. Tatiana Allen, UC Foundation Professor of Physics and associate department head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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.
UTC Newsroom
Cpl. Ginger Dockery with Sophie (left) and Sgt. Aaron Bayer with Lucky.
It’s official: Lucky, UTC’s newest K-9, is here to stay.Lucky, a six-month-old Labrador Retriever, began his full-time job in the UTC Police Department last week.
Like Sophie, who was introduced last year as UTC’s first working K-9, Lucky will serve as a campus therapy dog. In addition, he will train to become an explosive ordnance detection (EOD) dog to detect explosive devices.
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UTC senior Caleb Connery stands with a sticker sheet he designed for Homecoming 2026’s “MOCS2K” theme.
As a senior graphic design major, Connery was charged with designing the visual aspects for UTC Homecoming 2026. He crafted the “MOCS2K” theme into illustrations and graphics, bringing a student touch to one of the University’s biggest traditions.
On WUTC’s “Scenic Roots,” Heather Hicks, the new CEO of Signal Centers, talked about stepping into the role this summer following Donna McConnico, who led the nonprofit for 25 years. Signal Centers has served the Chattanooga area for nearly 70 years through programs focused on disabilities, early childhood education and self-sufficiency.
IN Memoriam
Dr. Nicholas “Nick” Honerkamp died Oct. 6, 2026, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Honerkamp joined UTC in 1980 as director of the Jeffrey L. Brown Institute of Archaeology and spent 39 years teaching archaeology and anthropology before retiring in 2019. Specializing in industrial and plantation archaeology, he conducted archaeological excavations in Chattanooga and coastal Georgia. An avid runner, cyclist and musician, Honerkamp leaves a lasting legacy through his research, teaching and generations of UTC students. 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.
October 13-19, 2026
Updates and news for the week of October 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.
Chancellor Lori Bruce stands with two of the winning students, Kaila Bui (left) and Sierra Brown, while holding their tartan design.
Four UTC students have designed a new piece of University history.Kaila Bui, Sierra Brown, Ryleigh Simmons and Emma Tuttle won the Chancellor’s Tartan Challenge, an interdisciplinary competition that asked students to create a tartan inspired by UTC’s history and future.The winning design will now move toward becoming UTC’s official tartan.
A tartan is a woven pattern of intersecting horizontal and vertical bands in different colors, historically associated with Scottish families and communities. Today, tartans can represent organizations and institutions. Click here to read more about their design.
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Complete the UT System Student Experience Survey
Your voice matters. What’s it really like to be a student at UTC? The UT System Student Experience Survey gives you a chance to tell us what’s working, what could be better and what you want UTC to know. It takes about 5-7 minutes, and your responses are confidential. Check your student email for the survey invitation and share your experience.
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Apply for the Public Service Award
The Public Service Award is a $1,000 scholarship awarded by the UTC Alumni Board of Directors and the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. Two undergraduate students displaying the most distinguished service to the UTC campus as well as the Chattanooga community will each receive a $1,000 scholarship.
University service includes totally voluntary positions (campus committees, student orientation groups, Greek memberships, etc.) or positions which are accompanied by a stipend (student government association positions, admissions and recruiting work, publication staffs, etc.). Community public service can include such involvement as volunteer work in hospitals, counseling, tutoring, environmental services, or any service that is not paid and does not receive academic credit.
The award is presented during half time of the Homecoming game and there are no restrictions on the way the financial award is used. Receiving this award may impact other scholarship monies.
The annual award is given to a UTC undergraduate student who:
Is carrying a full semester load of a minimum of 12 hours.
Has a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
Has not previously received the UTC Public Service Award
Submits a letter of reference (from faculty, administrator, and/or volunteer organizational advisor)
Click here to apply. The application deadline is Monday, Oct. 19.
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Remembering Fred Obear
The UTC campus community joined the family of Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear last week for a celebration of life reception in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.Obear, who served as UTC chancellor from 1981-97 and interim chancellor from 2004-05, died July 24 at age 91.
Outstanding People of UTC
Clockwise from top left: Dr. Lauren Ingraham, Dr. Andrew McCarthy, Dr. Kristin Pope, Dr. Allen Pratt, Dr. Jessica Taylor
Congratulations to UTC faculty and staff who received awards or submitted proposals for sponsored programs in September. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs announced that faculty and staff attracted $8,191,932 in external grant and contract awards during the month and submitted proposals for the potential to generate over $5,737,983 in external funding, if awarded.
Among those receiving awards in September were Dr. Lauren Ingraham (Academic Services), Dr. Andrew McCarthy (English), Dr. Kristin Pope (Career Connections), Dr. Allen Pratt (School of Education) and Dr. Jessica Taylor (Applied Leadership and Learning), who received $535,922 from the U.S. Department of Labor for the project titled “Reduced Credit Degrees: Transforming College Curriculum to Prepare Graduates for the Next Age of American Prosperity.”
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Chancellor Lori Bruce presents Moc’s Golden Feather Awards to Ted Ross, left, and Deborah Barr, right.
Presented by the Office of Human Resources, the Moc’s Golden Feather Award honors staff members who go above and beyond to make UTC a great place to work and learn. Recipients are nominated by colleagues, students and campus partners for their service, leadership and impact across the University.
Barr, an administrative specialist in the Department of Mathematics, was recognized for her steady leadership and as a central point of connection for students, faculty and visitors. She was nominated by Senior Lecturer and Undergraduate Studies Coordinator Angelique Ramnarine.
Ross, facilities manager in the Department of Art, was honored for his problem-solving, adaptability, and care for students and faculty.
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Clockwise from top left: Dr. Christina Policastro, Lindsey Felix, Dr. Max Jordon, Lucy White, Michelle Prince, Julia Bursch, Dr. Jordan King, Brett Fuchs, Brittney (Holder) Burks, Dr. Brooke Epperson, Dr. Victoria Bryan
Eleven faculty and staff members from UTC have been selected to participate in the UT System’s 2027 Leadership Institute, a prestigious professional development program designed to strengthen leadership skills and foster collaboration across the UT System.
The weeklong institute will take place in Chattanooga in March 2027, bringing together participants from across the UT System for collaborative learning, leadership development and opportunities to build connections with colleagues from other campuses and institutes.
UTC’s 11 participants represent a broad cross-section of the University, including academic affairs, research, athletics, advancement, public safety, student services and campus operations:
Dr. Victoria Bryan, director, Walker Center for Teaching and Learning
Brittney (Holder) Burks, senior director of advancement, College of Nursing and Honors College
Julia Bursch, chief operating officer, UTC Research Institute
Dr. Brooke Epperson, associate dean and UC Foundation associate professor, College of Nursing
Lindsey Felix, assistant athletic director for academic enhancement, Athletics
Brett Fuchs, director of emergency management, threat assessment, emergency communications and safety; public information officer, Department of Public Safety
Dr. Max Jordon, associate professor, Department of Physical Therapy
Dr. Jordan King, director of Innovations in Honors and professor of practice, Honors College
Dr. Christina Policastro, assistant dean of the Graduate School and UC Foundation professor, Department of Criminal Justice
Interim Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Matt Matthews; Dean of the UT Health Science Center College of Medicine James Haynes; Assistant Vice Chancellor for Facilities Planning and Management Anthony McClellan; Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Success Stacie Grisham; Vice Chancellor for Communications and Marketing JAy Blackman; and Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate School Ethan Carver.
Anthony McClellan, assistant vice chancellor for facilities planning and management; Dr. Stacie Grisham, assistant vice chancellor for student success; Dr. JAy Blackman, vice chancellor for communications and marketing; and Dr. Ethan Carver, associate provost and dean of the Graduate School, recently completed the UT System Executive Leadership Institute.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
Assistant Vice Chancellor of Communications and Constituent Relations Amy Donahue spoke to News 12 Now on Mocs Give Day.
Associate Professor of Political Science Jeremy Strickler discussed the upcoming midterm elections for the Tennessee Lookout.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political ScienceSaeid Golkar talked to Heartlander News about oil shipments and the Iran war.
Mark Your Calendar
Photo credit: Ray Soldano
This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:
Thursday, Oct. 15: Soccer vs. Samford, Finley Stadium, 6 p.m.
Friday, Oct.16: Volleyball vs. Western Carolina, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct.17: Volleyball vs. Western Carolina, Maclellan Gym, 3 p.m.
Wrestling, Oct. 17: Wrestling Blue and Gold match, Maclellan Gym, 6:30 p.m.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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
Visit the Biology, Geology and Environmental Science Fall Festival from 3-4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, on the sidewalk between Holt and Grote Halls. There will be games, sweets and representatives from student clubs. The College of Arts and Sciences Hub Advising and Career Connections will also be represented.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC with a showing of “Chinese Take-Away” (“Un cuento chino”) at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, in the University Center Auditorium.
The Spanish Film Festival is presented by the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and co-sponsored by Latin American Studies, A Moc’s First Year, Life Out Loud, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Film and Television minor, the Department of Communication and the Spanish Club.
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Registration is open for Mocs in the Mountains Leadership Retreat, a free leadership retreat for UTC students taking place Friday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 18, at Fort Mountain Retreat Center. Students at any level of leadership experience are invited to spend the weekend strengthening their leadership skills, connecting with other Mocs and exploring how they can make an impact at UTC and beyond.
Transportation, lodging and meals are provided at no cost to participants. Space is limited, and registration is required. Click here to register. For questions, contact the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community at engage@utc.edu.
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Celebrate Disability Employment Awareness Month with the Center for Student Accessibility and Career Connections at a Resume Building Workshop from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 19, in University Center Room 203. Drop in anytime during the workshop for help building or improving your resume.
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Join the Center for Global Education for International Education Week (IEW), which recognizes the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.
Each fall, the Center for Global Education celebrates IEW through special events related to international learning, leadership and exchange at UTC. IEW events celebrate cultural experiences, global awareness and the value that international scholars and students bring to campus communities. Attend the events below for an opportunity to have global experiences on UTC’s campus. Events are open to all students, faculty and staff.
The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 19: Dr. Ryan Fritts, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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Meet employers looking for talent across communication, journalism, public relations and media at the UTC Communication Career and Internship Expo from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 20, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The expo is open to students of all majors and minors.
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Hear from UTC political science professors Drs. Chris Acuff, Sarah Heise and Jeremy Strickler during a discussion of the 2026 midterm elections at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in University Center Room 230.
The discussion will explore the dynamics of election administration, what the latest polls reveal and possible outcomes for national governance.
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Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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The Department of Communication has launched “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring trust and community. The series will continue at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in Benwood Auditorium (ECS 230) with Robert D. Putnam presenting “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States.
The event is free and open to the public. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speaker can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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Join the Department of Mathematics for a pumpkin carving and course preview from 3:30-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Engineering and Computer Science Room 422.
Students thinking about their spring courses can meet instructors, learn what they’ll be studying and get a sneak peek at upcoming courses. Math Club, Pi Mu Epsilon and AWM are teaming up for the event, which will also feature pumpkin carving and food.
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Dr. Lillian Frost of Virginia Tech University will present “Contemporary Crises of Citizenship in the Arab World” from 4:20-5:45 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Lupton Hall Room 242 as part of the Annual Middle Eastern and Asian Studies Lecture Series.
Frost will discuss contemporary citizenship challenges across the Arab world, including women’s rights in nationality laws, the rights of noncitizen residents, nationality-by-investment programs and increases in nationality revocations.
A reception with free Middle Eastern snacks will be held from 3-4 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 235. The event is free and open to the public.
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With the 2027-28 FAFSA opening Oct. 1, students can stop by the Financial Aid Office for free, in-person FAFSA support during FAFSA Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23 and Friday, Oct. 30. No appointment is needed.
Staff can help with questions, troubleshooting and figuring out next steps. Virtual FAFSA appointments are also available through the Financial Wellness Center. For more information, click here.
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series features a special speaker sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Friday, Oct. 23: Ayça Çetinkaya
Friday, Nov. 13: William Erickson
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The UTC Bookstore, in partnership with UTC Alumni, will host a 2026 graduation celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Mocs Bookstore.
Graduating students can pick up pre-ordered regalia or purchase regalia, have cap and gown photos taken by a photographer, order class rings and announcements, and connect with campus departments for help with graduation needs. Students can also register for door prizes.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Wednesday, Oct. 28: 4 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109
Join Dr. Dawn Ford, UTC adjunct faculty member and member of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps, for “Today’s Climate Reality: Chattanooga and Beyond” from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, in Lupton Hall Room 120.
The presentation will be followed by a panel discussion featuring local climate leaders from UTC’s IGT Lab, the Sierra Club, the City of Chattanooga’s Office of Sustainability, and UTC’s Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs. Refreshments will be provided.
The symposium will bring together faculty from across the humanities and social sciences to share AI-related research, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The schedule includes:
9:30-10 a.m.: A cross-disciplinary conversation about the new AI Certificate being developed by the College of Arts and Sciences.
10:10-11:45 a.m.: Faculty research presentations from Zachary Simoni, Chandra Ward, Andrew J. Van Slyke, Marcus D. Mauldin and Nagwan R. Zahry.
1:35-2:20 p.m.: Faculty research presentations from Chris Vidmar, Rowan Johnson, Brandon Bouchillon and Jeremy Strickler.
The symposium will also feature guest speaker Hunter Heyck, director of the Center for Creativity and Authenticity in AI Cultural Production at the University of Oklahoma, who will discuss building interdisciplinary research teams and exploring opportunities for external funding.
Click here for more information and to view the event poster.
The UTC Library’s annual Halloween Party and Costume Contest is back with snacks, candy, games and plenty of spooky fun. Stop by the first floor of the Library from 1-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, to take a break from the study grind and celebrate.
Students, faculty and staff are also invited to enter the Costume Contest for a chance to win prizes. Costume photos will be posted online, where Mocs can vote for their favorite student and faculty/staff costumes. The costumes with the most votes win.
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The Chattanooga Mocs men’s and women’s basketball programs will host their annual Halloween-themed Boo & Gold event on Friday, Oct. 30, at McKenzie Arena.
The free, family-friendly event will begin with trick-or-treating on the concourse from 5:30-6:20 p.m., followed by basketball activities from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fans can enjoy team introductions, shooting contests, games and other activities featuring both Mocs basketball programs.
The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes.
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Join Scrappy’s Cupboard and Student Outreach and Support for the 4th Annual Homecoming Food Fight from Sunday, Nov. 1, through Saturday, Nov. 7. UTC students, faculty and staff are invited to compete in the friendly competition while giving back to Scrappy’s Cupboard, UTC’s on-campus food pantry.
Offices, departments and campus organizations can register to collect donations and compete in divisions for student organizations, fraternities and sororities, residence halls, faculty/staff departments, academic colleges and divisions, and Chattanooga community members and alumni.
Click here to sign up by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. Only one representative from each participating group should register. For questions, contact scrappyscupboard@utc.edu.
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The UTC Homecoming Parade is back in a new format. On Friday, Nov. 6, community members are invited to line Vine Street to watch the parade, then follow it to Chamberlain Pavilion for a pep rally featuring the UTC Marching Mocs, Spirit Squads, campus leadership and more.
The parade will begin at 5 p.m., and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from vendors on Chamberlain Field. Click here to RSVP to attend, or click here to register to participate in the parade.
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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.
Mocs students, you will be receiving an email this week about the Student Experience Survey. This survey is administered to all students across the UT System to learn about your current needs, well-being and preferences, and we need everyone’s help in completing the five-minute questionnaire. Click here to go to the survey. Student feedback informs us about the Mocs experience and helps identify opportunities for the future. Students are encouraged to complete the survey by Friday, Nov. 6.
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The College of Arts and Sciences regularly volunteers to serve lunch at the Chatt Foundation two to three times each month. Volunteers from across the College represent UTC in this ongoing service opportunity.
The 1886 Challenge calls on faculty, staff and students to collectively contribute 18,860 hours of community service during the 2026-27 academic year. The initiative highlights service already taking place across the University through volunteer work, mentoring, service-learning and outreach.
Faculty, staff and students who have volunteered in the community can submit their hours through the 1886 Challenge form and help move UTC closer to its goal. Submitted photos can also be viewed in the photo gallery at the top of the 1886 Challenge page.
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The 2026 UT Administrative Professionals Summit (APS) will take place Wednesday, Nov. 11, through Friday, Nov. 13, at the Knoxville Convention Center. APS is a professional development conference designed for administrative professionals from UT and across industries to learn, connect and grow.
This year’s theme, “Learn! Lead! Excel!,” encourages attendees to embrace lifelong learning, lead from where they are and excel in their work. Through practical sessions, expert insights and peer networking, participants will gain skills, strategies and confidence for today’s evolving workplace.
Registration is $250 for UT employees using the case-sensitive code UTEmployee at checkout and $400 for non-UT employees. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 28. Click here to register.
Student Success Programs is looking to add mentors to its roster.
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. Additional information will be shared with those who express interest.
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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions will feature 16 graduate students competing in the Three Minute Thesis Competition and 19 undergraduate students competing in the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition in the University Center Auditorium. The program will also include speakers, People’s Choice Award audience participation and more. Click here to view the schedule of events.
Paid summer research opportunities: Encourage undergraduate students to apply for paid Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. Funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and other organizations, REUs typically offer eight to 10 weeks of hands-on summer research along with a stipend, housing and travel allowances, and professional development. Click here to learn more.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Math Kangaroo, an annual international mathematics competition for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, is returning to UTC. Registration is now open for the competition, which will take place from 5-6:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2027, in Grote Hall.
UTC’s competition center is open to Tennessee students in grades K-12 and has a capacity of 50 participants. Kindergarten students will take the Grade 1 test and must be able to read and work independently.
Regular registration is $20 through Thursday, Dec. 31, with late registration available for $35 from Friday, Jan. 1, through Monday, Feb. 1. All registered students will receive mathematical gifts and participation ribbons, with additional awards available for top performers nationally and statewide.
Click here to learn more and register. For questions, contact Dr. Tatiana Allen, UC Foundation Professor of Physics and associate department head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
Thinking about earning an advanced degree? UTC employees can take advantage of the University’s education benefit to pursue programs like UTC’s M.S. in Computer Science, a program specifically designed to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, including healthcare, psychology, linguistics, and other non-technical fields. The program provides a pathway for career changers and lifelong learners looking to build new skills and expand future opportunities
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. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
Lucy White
Lucy White is back at UTC with a new role and the same goal of helping students take care of themselves.
White, the new director of the Center for Wellbeing, previously worked at UTC in 2022 as assistant director for education and suicide prevention. After the grant-funded position ended, she spent three and a half years at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center counseling medical students and residents.
Now, she is returning with nearly a decade of experience in counseling and mental health. She is also a UTC graduate student in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, giving her the chance to experience campus as both a staff member and student.
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Chase (top left) and Izzy (holding football) Barajas transferred to UTC with the intention of getting involved in campus life, including winning an intramural flag football championship.
After transferring to UTC (Chase came in 2022 and Izzy arrived the following year), the recently married couple have earned their degrees, started careers in Chattanooga and bought a home.
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Students in Dr. Jejal Bathi’s ENCE 2010 Introduction to Environmental Engineering course collect water samples from the Tennessee River as part of a field exercise examining how location and surrounding conditions can affect water quality. Photo courtesy of Dr. Jejal Bathi.
Standing along the Tennessee River, UTC students in Introduction to Environmental Engineering recently collected water samples with an overarching question in mind: What is happening upstream, downstream and in the places where people live, work and build?
The field exercise was part of a larger lesson. Students sampled near Chickamauga Reservoir, Coolidge Park and points in between, learning how to select locations, collect data and examine conditions in a waterway central to the Chattanooga region. For Dr. Jejal Bathi, coordinator of UTC’s environmental engineering program, that work gets to the point of the discipline.
Dr. Gary Wilkerson, a professor in UTC’s Graduate Athletic Training Program in the Department of Health and Human Performance, is the lead author of “Virtual reality, machine learning, and statistical modeling reveal an association between multiple concussion history and impaired perceptual decision-making,” published in PLOS One—a peer-reviewed, open-access journal of the Public Library of Science.
WUTC
Artwork by Jeremiah Brill for the CSO
On WUTC’s “Scenic Roots,” Jackie Sands and Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Music Director Ilya Ram talked about the artwork created by Sands’ son, Jeremiah Brill, for the CSO’s new season ahead of its season premiere.
October 6-12, 2026
Updates and news for the week of October 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.
Today (Oct. 6) is Mocs Give Day, bringing the UTC community together for a 24-hour online giving challenge in support of current and future Mocs. Alumni, faculty, staff, families and friends can make an impact through gifts that strengthen scholarships, programs and opportunities across campus. Every gift tells a story, and every gift helps shape the future of UTC. Learn more at mocsgiveday.utc.edu.
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Remembering Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear
The Obear family invites the UTC community to come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear. A Celebration of Life Reception will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center. Those unable to attend who would like to share a remembrance of Dr. Obear with the family can do so through this link.
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Complete the “Know How, Know Now” Wellness Challenge by Oct. 10
The self-paced K@TE course, “Suicide Prevention: Spot the Signs and Start the Conversation,” is part of the UT System’s “Know How, Know Now” wellness training series. The “Know How, Know Now” Challenge runs through Saturday, Oct. 10. Employees who complete all three trainings in the series earn a digital certificate and are entered into one of 10 systemwide drawings for a $50 gift card and a UT Wellness blanket.
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Register for Homecoming events
Homecoming 2026, MOCS2K, will take place Saturday, Oct. 31, through Saturday, Nov. 7. Students and campus departments can get involved through several upcoming opportunities.
Submit a Homecoming event: Campus departments are invited to submit events that connect to the Homecoming theme and complement activities planned throughout the week. The final submission deadline is Friday, Oct. 9, for inclusion on the online calendar. Click here to learn more, view the current schedule and submit an event.
Apply for Homecoming Court: Students who have demonstrated academic excellence and involvement on campus and in the Chattanooga community are invited to apply for the 2026 Homecoming Court. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. Click here to apply on MocSync.
Register for Homecoming Lip Sync: Student organizations and groups of UTC students can register for the MOCS2K Lip Sync Competition, taking place Wednesday, Nov. 4. Teams must have at least five members. Registration is due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. Click here to register on MocSync.
For questions about Homecoming Court or Lip Sync, contact Kidron Bullock. For questions about submitting a Homecoming event, contact engage@utc.edu.
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Remembering Dennis Haskins
Dennis Haskins
When Dennis Haskins’ name was called at UTC’s fall 2015 commencement, he crossed the stage in cap and gown at age 65, accepting the bachelor’s degree in theatre that had been unfinished business for decades.
For most of the country, Dennis Haskins was Principal Richard Belding, the man trying to keep order at Bayside High while Zack Morris and his friends found new ways to test his patience, who delivered the line generations of viewers came to know: “Hey, hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?”
For Chattanooga and UTC, he was much more than a familiar face from a television classic. He was a native son who found success in Hollywood but never stopped talking about the city and University that had given him his start.
Haskins died Sunday, Sept. 27, at age 75.
Outstanding People of UTC
When UTC launched the 1886 Challenge in celebration of the University’s 140th anniversary, the idea was simple: honor UTC’s founding year by challenging the campus community to contribute 18,860 hours of volunteer service during the year. One quarter into the Challenge, the Mocs are making those hours count.
One quarter into the Challenge, the Mocs are making those hours count. UTC students, faculty, staff, alumni and retirees have already reported 7,298.5 hours of service, putting the University at nearly 39% of its 18,860-hour goal. And those hours are adding up in some pretty impressive ways.
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The Chattanooga Mocs announced the Class of 2026 Hall of Fame inductees. This group includes six new members spanning four different decades in the rich, championship history of Mocs athletics.
Gary Davis (men’s basketball, 1962-65), Willie Greenway (football, 1985-88), Jacob Huesman (football, 2012-15), Russ Huesman (player and coach), Kari Krouse Swafford (volleyball, 2000-03) and Larry Meierotto (wrestling, 1980-83) are the six newest entries into this ledger.
The Hall of Fame also recognizes four individual award winners: Diane Wolford (Gordon Davenport Award), David Williams (Joe Morrison Award), McKenna Faychak (Scrappy Moore Award) and Ron Hall (Harold Wilkes Award). Click here to learn more.
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Caitlan Hendrickson
UTC has selected Caitlan Hendrickson, an experienced organizational ombuds and conflict resolution professional with more than 20 years of experience, to serve as the University’s new ombudsperson.
As ombudsperson, Hendrickson will provide an independent, impartial, informal and confidential resource for members of the UTC community. The role provides a place for individuals to discuss concerns, better understand University resources and processes, explore options and identify constructive approaches to addressing workplace and campus issues. Organizational ombuds can also help identify broader trends and systemic concerns while protecting the confidentiality of those seeking assistance.
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The All Majors Career Fair welcomed 48 employers and more than 400 students, giving students the opportunity to explore jobs and internships and make connections with potential employers. One student who stopped by just to check out the fair walked away with an internship with the Chattanooga Police Department.
The fair also featured the Career Closet Fashion Show, showcasing professional clothing available to UTC students through the Career Closet.
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The UTC Nurse Anesthesia program hosted a free Peripheral Regional workshop for local certified registered nurse anesthetists. The two-day workshop included didactic and hands-on instruction, and participants received continuing education credits for completing the program.
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Billy Weeks (center)
Billy Weeks, photojournalism senior lecturer in the Department of Communication, recently presented at the Chattanooga Aperture Project, where several UTC communication students attended and exhibited their work.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
Head of UTC’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering Mengjun Xie was featured in a Research.com story about UTC’s College of Engineering and Computer Science and its work in AI, cybersecurity, quantum technology and advanced computing.
Vice Provost for Academic AffairsElizabeth O’Brien spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about adult children moving back in with their parents.
Head of UTC’s Department of Theatre Steve Ray discussed Dennis Haskins’ legacy with Local 3 News and Times Free Press.
Friday, Oct. 9: Volleyball vs. ETSU, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 10: Volleyball vs. ETSU, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 10: Football vs. Samford, Finley Stadium, 1 p.m.
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Walgreens will offer on-campus flu vaccine clinics for students, faculty and staff during September and October. No appointment is necessary, but appointments are available to streamline the process.
Today (Oct. 6): 10 a.m.-2 p.m., University Center Tennessee Room
Wednesday, Oct. 7: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Chamberlain Field during the Be Well Health Fair (rain location: University Center Tennessee Room)
Bring your current insurance and pharmacy benefits cards. Free vouchers will be available for those without insurance. Click here to schedule an appointment.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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.
Learn how to earn academic credit while exploring the world during a study abroad information session from 2-3 p.m. today (Oct. 6). The session will cover program options, application timelines, scholarships and financial aid, costs, and the student experience abroad.
All students are welcome, whether they are just starting to explore study abroad or are ready to apply. Click here to learn more.
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Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Today (Oct. 6)
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
UTC LIVE! makes its Cadek Hall debut today (Oct. 6) with Stundom, a rising Danish folk group making its first American tour. The UTC performance is the first stop on Stundom’s tour. Drawing on Scandinavian dance music and storytelling traditions, the group blends violin, cittern and piano with elements of chamber and symphonic music. Stundom has been nominated multiple times for Danish Music Awards Roots/Folk honors, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year.
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The cast of the UTC Theatre Co.’s “The Revolutionists” includes (clockwise from top left) Mahogany Sales as Marianne Angelle, Gracie Headrick as Marie Antoinette, Cameron Schulz as Charlotte Corday, and Lily Phillips as Olympe de Gouges. Photo courtesy of UTC Theatre Co.
When the world is falling apart, what can—and should—an artist do?
That question drives “The Revolutionists,” Lauren Gunderson’s irreverent comedy about four women who find themselves at the center of the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror. The UTC Theatre Co. will present the production at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6-10, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Oct. 10, in the Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre in the UTC Fine Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office, either in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $20 for general admission, plus service fees, and $15 for students (with a valid student ID) and seniors.
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Join Dr. Donna Ray for “But … Is It a Cult?” from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, in Lupton Hall Room 239. The discussion will explore what defines a cult, why the term can be problematic and better ways to talk about religious and spiritual movements that may make people uncomfortable.
The event is part of the “What’s the Big Idea?” discussion series hosted by the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies. Free pizza will be provided.
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The UTC College of Nursing invites faculty, staff, students, friends, family and community members to its Fall Festival from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, on the lawn of the Metropolitan Building, 518 Oak St.
Enjoy an afternoon of fall festivities, including popcorn, pumpkin painting, crafts, games and a costume contest. Attendees can also learn more about UTC Nursing programs and connect with representatives from local health care organizations, including Erlanger, Siskin, CommonSpirit and the Hamilton County Health Department. Click here to view the full flyer.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC during the Spanish Film Festival, featuring free film screenings in the University Center Auditorium.
Wednesday, Oct. 7: La Suprema, 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Thursday, Oct. 15: Chinese Take-Away (Un cuento chino), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
The Spanish Film Festival is presented by the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and co-sponsored by Latin American Studies, A Moc’s First Year, Life Out Loud, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Film and Television minor, the Department of Communication and the Spanish Club.
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Explore professional opportunities in athletic training, physical therapy and occupational therapy at the AT/PT/OT Career Fair from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
More than 30 healthcare organizations will be in attendance. The event is sponsored by UTC Career Connections. Click here to view the event on Handshake.
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The UTC Quantum Center will host Dr. Wonhee Ko of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, for its upcoming colloquium from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, in the UTC Library Room 205. Ko will present “Probing Unconventional Superconductivity by Multi-Particle Tunneling Spectroscopy.”
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With the 2027-28 FAFSA opening Oct. 1, students can stop by the Financial Aid Office for free, in-person FAFSA support during FAFSA Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9; Friday, Oct. 23; and Friday, Oct. 30. No appointment is needed.
Staff can help with questions, troubleshooting and figuring out next steps. Virtual FAFSA appointments are also available through the Financial Wellness Center. For more information, click here.
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An eight-week summer 2027 business research internship opportunity in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is available for up to five UTC students. Join an information session at noon on Friday, Oct. 9, in Fletcher Hall Room 109.
Dr. Robert Dooley, dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, will lead the information sessions. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to COBInternational@utc.edu. The application deadline is Sunday, Nov. 1. Click here for more information and to apply.
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Visit the Biology, Geology and Environmental Science Fall Festival from 3-4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, on the sidewalk between Holt and Grote Halls. There will be games, sweets and representatives from student clubs. The College of Arts and Sciences Hub Advising and Career Connections will also be represented.
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Registration is open for Mocs in the Mountains Leadership Retreat, a free leadership retreat for UTC students taking place Friday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 18, at Fort Mountain Retreat Center. Students at any level of leadership experience are invited to spend the weekend strengthening their leadership skills, connecting with other Mocs and exploring how they can make an impact at UTC and beyond.
Transportation, lodging and meals are provided at no cost to participants. Space is limited, and registration is required. Click here to register. For questions, contact the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community at engage@utc.edu.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 19: Dr. Ryan Fritts, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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Meet employers looking for talent across communication, journalism, public relations and media at the UTC Communication Career and Internship Expo from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 20, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The expo is open to students of all majors and minors.
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Hear from UTC political science professors Drs. Chris Acuff, Sarah Heise and Jeremy Strickler during a discussion of the 2026 midterm elections at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in University Center Room 230.
The discussion will explore the dynamics of election administration, what the latest polls reveal and possible outcomes for national governance.
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The Department of Communication has launched “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring trust and community. The series will continue at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in Benwood Auditorium (ECS 230) with Robert D. Putnam presenting “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States.
The event is free and open to the public. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speaker can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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Join the Department of Mathematics for a pumpkin carving and course preview from 3:30-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Engineering and Computer Science Room 422.
Students thinking about their spring courses can meet instructors, learn what they’ll be studying and get a sneak peek at upcoming courses. Math Club, Pi Mu Epsilon and AWM are teaming up for the event, which will also feature pumpkin carving and food.
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series features a special speaker sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Friday, Oct. 23: Ayça Çetinkaya
Friday, Nov. 13: William Erickson
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The UTC Bookstore, in partnership with UTC Alumni, will host a 2026 graduation celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Mocs Bookstore.
Graduating students can pick up pre-ordered regalia or purchase regalia, have cap and gown photos taken by a photographer, order class rings and announcements, and connect with campus departments for help with graduation needs. Students can also register for door prizes.
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The College of Arts and Sciences invites faculty, staff and students to the AI Symposium on Research and Teaching Across the Humanities and Social Sciences from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, in University Center Room 315.
The symposium will bring together faculty from across the humanities and social sciences to share AI-related research, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The schedule includes:
9:30-10 a.m.: A cross-disciplinary conversation about the new AI Certificate being developed by the College of Arts and Sciences.
10:10-11:45 a.m.: Faculty research presentations from Zachary Simoni, Chandra Ward, Andrew J. Van Slyke, Marcus D. Mauldin and Nagwan R. Zahry.
1:35-2:20 p.m.: Faculty research presentations from Chris Vidmar, Rowan Johnson, Brandon Bouchillon and Jeremy Strickler.
The symposium will also feature guest speaker Hunter Heyck, director of the Center for Creativity and Authenticity in AI Cultural Production at the University of Oklahoma, who will discuss building interdisciplinary research teams and exploring opportunities for external funding.
The UTC Library’s annual Halloween Party and Costume Contest is back with snacks, candy, games and plenty of spooky fun. Stop by the first floor of the Library from 1-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, to take a break from the study grind and celebrate.
Students, faculty and staff are also invited to enter the Costume Contest for a chance to win prizes. Costume photos will be posted online, where Mocs can vote for their favorite student and faculty/staff costumes. The costumes with the most votes win.
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The UTC Homecoming Parade is back in a new format. On Friday, Nov. 6, community members are invited to line Vine Street to watch the parade, then follow it to Chamberlain Pavilion for a pep rally featuring the UTC Marching Mocs, Spirit Squads, campus leadership and more.
The parade will begin at 5 p.m., and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from vendors on Chamberlain Field. Click here to RSVP to attend, or click here to register to participate in the parade.
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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.
Mocs students, you will be receiving an email this week about the Student Experience Survey. This survey is administered to all students across the UT System to learn about your current needs, well-being and preferences, and we need everyone’s help in completing the five-minute questionnaire. Click here to go to the survey. Student feedback informs us about the Mocs experience and helps identify opportunities for the future. Students are encouraged to complete the survey by Friday, Nov. 6.
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The Public Service Award is a $1,000 scholarship awarded by the UTC Alumni Board of Directors and the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. Two undergraduate students displaying the most distinguished service to the UTC campus as well as the Chattanooga community will each receive a $1,000 scholarship.
University service includes totally voluntary positions (campus committees, student orientation groups, Greek memberships, etc.) or positions which are accompanied by a stipend (student government association positions, admissions and recruiting work, publication staffs, etc.). Community public service can include such involvement as volunteer work in hospitals, counseling, tutoring, environmental services, or any service that is not paid and does not receive academic credit.
The award is presented during half time of the Homecoming game and there are no restrictions on the way the financial award is used. Receiving this award may impact other scholarship monies.
The annual award is given to a UTC undergraduate student who:
Is carrying a full semester load of a minimum of 12 hours.
Has a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
Has not previously received the UTC Public Service Award
Submits a letter of reference (from faculty, administrator, and/or volunteer organizational advisor)
Click here to apply. The application deadline is Monday, Oct. 19.
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WUTC’s Fall Fund Drive runs through Sunday, Oct. 11. A public service of the University, WUTC is home to NPR programming in our area; local hosts Ray Bassett, Haley Solomon, Paul Jorgensen and Clark Gibson; and learning opportunities for students on the UTC campus.
WUTC’s funding comes 100% from listeners like you here in Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley. Please support WUTC at wutc.org and click the Donate button.
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Check out the Advancement team showing off their Mocs spirit on a recent Gold Friday. Remember to wear your gold every Friday and help turn campus UTC gold.
We want to see your Gold Fridays photos—whether it’s a group shot with your department or classmates, or a solo photo showing your Mocs pride. Faculty, staff and students are all encouraged to participate. Click here submit your Gold Fridays photo and learn more about the tradition.
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The 2026 UT Administrative Professionals Summit (APS) will take place Wednesday, Nov. 11, through Friday, Nov. 13, at the Knoxville Convention Center. APS is a professional development conference designed for administrative professionals from UT and across industries to learn, connect and grow.
This year’s theme, “Learn! Lead! Excel!,” encourages attendees to embrace lifelong learning, lead from where they are and excel in their work. Through practical sessions, expert insights and peer networking, participants will gain skills, strategies and confidence for today’s evolving workplace.
Registration is $250 for UT employees using the case-sensitive code UTEmployee at checkout and $400 for non-UT employees. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 28. Click here to register.
Student Success Programs is looking to add mentors to its roster.
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. Additional information will be shared with those who express interest.
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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions will feature 16 graduate students competing in the Three Minute Thesis Competition and 19 undergraduate students competing in the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition in the University Center Auditorium. The program will also include speakers, People’s Choice Award audience participation and more. Click here to view the schedule of events.
Paid summer research opportunities: Encourage undergraduate students to apply for paid Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. Funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and other organizations, REUs typically offer eight to 10 weeks of hands-on summer research along with a stipend, housing and travel allowances, and professional development. Click here to learn more.
Summer research and study abroad: Undergraduate students can explore summer research opportunities in the United Kingdom, Thailand, Croatia, Hungary and other locations. Funding is available to help offset program costs. Click here to learn more and apply.
Summer Business Research Internship in Vietnam: Undergraduate students can complete research internships in Ho Chi Minh City through a program presented by the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, Office for URaCE and Center for Global Education. Click here to learn more.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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Faculty and staff are invited to participate in the UT Wellness: Know How, Know Now Challenge through Saturday, Oct. 10. Complete three self-paced K@TE trainings on mental health warning signs, opioid overdose response and suicide prevention while helping UTC compete for the highest employee participation rate across the UT System.
Employees who complete all three trainings will receive a digital certificate and be entered into a drawing for one of 10 $50 gift cards and UT Wellness blankets. The opioid overdose response training was created with the help of UTC’s Kat James, and the suicide prevention training was developed with input from Amy Kyriakidis, both from the Center for Wellbeing. Click here to join the challenge.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
Thinking about earning an advanced degree? UTC employees can take advantage of the University’s education benefit to pursue programs like UTC’s M.S. in Computer Science, a program specifically designed to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, including healthcare, psychology, linguistics, and other non-technical fields. The program provides a pathway for career changers and lifelong learners looking to build new skills and expand future opportunities
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. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
Chancellor Lori Bruce
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Governor’s Conference (GovCon) brought together employers, local and state officials and key stakeholders last week at the Chattanooga Convention Center to discuss the future of workforce development in Tennessee.
UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce welcomed economic and workforce developers, community leaders and industry partners to Chattanooga and thanked elected officials for their leadership at the Commissioner’s Luncheon.
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Dr. Bradley Harris
What does a chemical engineer do? How can a student prepare for medical or pharmacy school? Where can students find people and resources to help answer those questions? Dr. Bradley Harris, head of UTC’s Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, is helping students begin those conversations through A Moc’s First Year, a campuswide program designed to help incoming first-time, full-time undergraduates make connections to UTC, Chattanooga and one another.
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Chloe Mondido
Every summer, many undergraduate students at UTC have the opportunity to dive deeper into research and explore new learning experiences. The National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program makes some of these opportunities possible by funding students to spend the summer collaborating on research projects at institutions across the country.
UTC junior Chloe Mondido is majoring in mechatronics and is a Brock Scholar in the UTC Honors College. The Flintstone, Georgia, native spent 10 weeks participating in an REU program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she worked on developing flexible temperature sensors.
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UTC’s acquisition of the Doctors Building in 2000 marked an important moment in the growth of campus. Located at the southwest corner of McCallie Avenue and Palmetto Street, the real estate purchase marked the University’s first expansion south across McCallie Avenue.
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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:
Through the Driving Action Through Analytics and Analysis (DATAA) internship program, UTC students are working with Chattanooga organizations to organize and manage data to “strengthen programs, measure impact, evaluate outcomes and improve quality of life across the Chattanooga region.”
A lawyer, a software developer, and a mechanic walk into a bar. You’re waiting for the punch line because it sounds like a joke. But the “bar” is in an airport, and all three work for the same airline. One handles contracts and regulations, one writes code, and one keeps airplanes running. Different jobs. Same industry.
WUTC
A performance at Hi-Fi Clyde’s in Chattanooga during IBMA World of Bluegrass in 2025.
WUTC’s Clark Gibson talked with Paul Schminger, interim executive director of the International Bluegrass Music Association, and Donna Elle Harrison of Chattanooga Tourism Co. about the upcoming return of IBMA’s World of Bluegrass to Chattanooga for its second year.
IN Memoriam
The UTC community mourns the passing of former professor Ziad Keilany, who joined the University in 1968 as an associate professor of economics and later served as department head. A beloved teacher known for making economics engaging and memorable, he was awarded the Guerry Professorship in 1974. Keilany retired from his full-time UTC role in 2015. His enduring impact continues through the Professor Ziad Keilany Endowed Scholarship in Economics, established in 2016 to support future students and alumni today. Click here for the full obituary, including information on arrangements.
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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.
UTC to Celebrate Dolly Day on 9/25
On Friday, Sept. 25, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga will celebrate one of Tennessee’s most recognizable icons with “Dolly Day,” a collection of activities highlighting Parton’s influence on literacy, service, entertainment, entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
And, appropriately enough, her famous “9 to 5” will be part of the celebration.
“Dolly Parton’s impact reaches across generations, and Dolly Day gives our UTC community a fun and meaningful way to celebrate that legacy,” said UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce. “Whether we are reading with elementary school students, learning from Dolly’s remarkable success as a businesswoman or stepping in front of a green screen to imagine our own future 9-to-5, this day brings together our students, faculty, staff, alumni and retirees around literacy, service, creativity and community.”
Continuing Support to Literacy and Service
The College of Health, Education and Professional Studies and the College of Nursing are partnering with Tommie F. Brown Academy for a special Dolly Day focused on literacy, service and intergenerational engagement. Approximately 250 Tommie F. Brown students will have opportunities to interact with UTC retirees, students, alumni, faculty and staff throughout the day.
Organizers are intentionally bringing together multiple generations of the UTC community. The goal is not only to support literacy and service but also to strengthen UTC’s relationship with Tommie F. Brown Academy through the kind of community engagement Parton championed throughout her career.
Back on campus, Dolly’s “9 to 5” will take center stage.
9, 2, 5 … Action!
The Arts-Based Collaborative at UTC will celebrate Parton’s life through music and theatre with an interactive “9, 2, 5 … Action!” event from 10 a.m.-noon on the third floor of the UTC Library outside the Studio and in the Video Suite.
Attendees can step in front of a green screen to act out their future 9-to-5, put on their dancing shoes and sing along to Parton’s music. Those who want to take the experience a step further can have their session recorded as part of a “9 to 5” music video.
The Library That Dolly Built
The UTC Library will host a screening of “The Library That Dolly Built,” a feature-length documentary exploring the history, impact and future of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the global book-gifting program she founded. Featuring guest narrator, actress and author Danica McKellar, along with the music of Dolly Parton, the film will be shown from 2-4 p.m. in UTC Library Room 131, the library’s theater. Popcorn will be available for attendees.
From 9/25 to “9 to 5”
The Department of Political Science and Public Service will host a screening of the 1980 film “9 to 5” at—you guessed it—5 p.m. in Derthick Hall Room 201.
The screening will be followed by a brief discussion of Parton’s impact today, along with trivia, music and a costume contest. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new children’s book or canned food item to donate.
The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will also use “9 to 5” to put a business-school spin on the celebration.
In the morning in Fletcher Hall, students, faculty and staff can participate in a “What Can Business Students Learn From Dolly?” activity, sharing lessons from Parton’s career in areas such as branding, entrepreneurship, leadership, authenticity and philanthropy.
While “9 to 5” plays nearby, students can take part in an “HR Violation Challenge,” identifying questionable workplace and human resources practices depicted in the movie. Participants can enter to win a Rollins College of Business/Dolly-inspired gift basket, with Dolly-themed treats and giveaways also available.
For UTC, the 9/25 connection provides a fun reason to celebrate Parton and “9 to 5,” while also highlighting the broader impact of a Tennessee icon whose influence reaches far beyond entertainment. Through books and business, movies and music, service and philanthropy, Dolly Day will give the UTC community a chance to celebrate the many ways Parton has used her career to make a difference.
And what better day to do it than 9/25?
Dolly Day on Campus: Schedule of Events
9 a.m.-11 a.m.: “What Can Business Students Learn From Dolly?” and “HR Violation Challenge” | Fletcher Hall
10 a.m.-noon: “9, 2, 5 … Action!” | UTC Library, third floor outside the Studio and in the Video Suite
2-4 p.m.: “The Library That Dolly Built” documentary screening | UTC Library Room 131
5 p.m.: “9 to 5” film screening, discussion, trivia, music and costume contest | Derthick Hall Room 201
September 29-October 5, 2026
Updates and news for the week of September 29-October 5, 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.
Complete the “Know How, Know Now” Wellness Challenge by Oct. 10
Amy Kyriakidis
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and UTC faculty and staff can learn how to recognize possible signs of suicide risk, start a caring conversation and connect students or colleagues with help through a new online training created by Amy Kyriakidis, assistant director for suicide education and prevention in the Center for Wellbeing.
The self-paced K@TE course, “Suicide Prevention: Spot the Signs and Start the Conversation,” is part of the UT System’s “Know How, Know Now” wellness training series. The “Know How, Know Now” Challenge runs through Saturday, Oct. 10. Employees who complete all three trainings in the series earn a digital certificate and are entered into one of 10 systemwide drawings for a $50 gift card and a UT Wellness blanket.
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GIVE ON MOCS GIVE DAY
Mocs Give Day returns on Tuesday, Oct. 6, bringing the UTC community together for a 24-hour online giving challenge in support of current and future Mocs. Alumni, students, faculty, staff, families and friends can make an impact through gifts that strengthen scholarships, programs and opportunities across campus. Every gift tells a story, and every gift helps shape the future of UTC. Learn more at mocsgiveday.utc.edu.
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Remembering Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear
The Obear family invites the UTC community to come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear. A Celebration of Life Reception will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center. Those unable to attend who would like to share a remembrance of Dr. Obear with the family can do so through this link.
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Register for Homecoming events
Homecoming 2026, MOCS2K, will take place Saturday, Oct. 31, through Saturday, Nov. 7. Students and campus departments can get involved through several upcoming opportunities.
Submit a Homecoming event: Campus departments are invited to submit events that connect to the Homecoming theme and complement activities planned throughout the week. The final submission deadline is Friday, Oct. 9, for inclusion on the online calendar. Click here to learn more, view the current schedule and submit an event.
Apply for Homecoming Court: Students who have demonstrated academic excellence and involvement on campus and in the Chattanooga community are invited to apply for the 2026 Homecoming Court. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. Click here to apply on MocSync.
Register for Homecoming Lip Sync: Student organizations and groups of UTC students can register for the MOCS2K Lip Sync Competition, taking place Wednesday, Nov. 4. Teams must have at least five members. Registration is due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. Click here to register on MocSync.
For questions about Homecoming Court or Lip Sync, contact Kidron Bullock. For questions about submitting a Homecoming event, contact engage@utc.edu.
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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
It is time to recruit campus partners to send 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—including upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30. The September newsletter will be emailed to members on Wednesday, October. 7.
Please keep submissions to one paragraph of 200 (or fewer) words.
Images or logos to accompany the paragraph may be submitted.
From left: Yasir Hassan, software engineer at the Center for Urban Informatics and Progress (CUIP); Austin Harris, CUIP deputy director and chief technology officer; Dr. Mina Sartipi, interim vice chancellor for research; and Dr. Maged Shoman, research assistant professor at the UT-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute
UTC earned third place and a $150,000 prize in a national U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) competition for an artificial intelligence-powered platform designed to improve transportation safety and efficiency.
UTC’s PRISM: AI-Powered Platform for Real-Time Intelligence in Shared Mobility was one of four projects selected to compete in the finals of the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Infrastructure Ideas and Innovation Challenge on Friday, Sept. 25, at DOT headquarters in Washington. The UTC-led team advanced from an initial field of 448 submissions from across the country.
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Erin Yenawine
UTC alum Erin Yenawine, who graduated in May with degrees in political science and economics, had started working full-time in Chattanooga when she received a surprising email. She was selected as a 2026 Portz Scholar by the National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC).
Yenawine, a Brock Scholar in the UTC Honors College from Hopkinton, Massachusetts, was one of four students selected nationally for the honor. It is the third year in a row—and the third time in University history—that a UTC student has received the award.
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Dr. Jeremy Strickler
A government shutdown, a campfire and the myths that divide us. Dr. Jeremy Strickler’s professional development leave showed that scholarship can move forward when plans change and curiosity leads the way.
Strickler, an associate professor of political science and UTC faculty member since 2016, used his fall 2025 leave to advance research on presidential leadership and U.S. drug control policy, co-author a book chapter about camping, and develop a new course on American political culture.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs Brandon Bouchillon spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about the Department of Communication’s “Common Ground” events. He spoke to them again about media coverage in the White House.
A Times Free Press article previewed Brandon Bouchillon’s “Common Ground” series.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political ScienceSaeid Golkar wrote a piece for Persuasion about politics in Iran.
Mark Your Calendar
Photo credit: Ray Soldano
This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:
Friday, Oct. 2: Men’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Invite/SoCon Play-Off, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Friday, Oct. 2: Women’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Fall Invite, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Saturday, Oct. 3: Men’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Invite/SoCon Play-Off, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Saturday, Oct. 3: Women’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Fall Invite, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Sunday, Oct. 4: Men’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Invite/SoCon Play-Off, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Sunday, Oct. 4: Women’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Fall Invite, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Sunday, Oct. 4: Soccer vs. Western Carolina, Finley Stadium, 1 p.m.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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.
Celebrate 15 years of transatlantic ties between Chattanooga and its sister city, Wolfsburg, Germany, from 2-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30, in the Honors College Guerry Center Reading Room. The event will celebrate the Chattanooga-Wolfsburg Sister City partnership with free food, drinks and activities.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
An eight-week summer 2027 business research internship opportunity in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is available for up to five UTC students.
Thursday, Oct. 1: 1 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon, Fletcher Hall Room 109
Dr. Robert Dooley, dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, will lead the information sessions. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to COBInternational@utc.edu. The application deadline is Sunday, Nov. 1. Click here for more information and to apply.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC during the Spanish Film Festival, featuring free film screenings in the University Center Auditorium.
Thursday, Oct. 1: In the Heights (En un barrio), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Wednesday, Oct. 7: La Suprema, 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Thursday, Oct. 15: Chinese Take-Away (Un cuento chino), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
The Spanish Film Festival is presented by the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and co-sponsored by Latin American Studies, A Moc’s First Year, Life Out Loud, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Film and Television minor, the Department of Communication and the Spanish Club.
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The Department of Chemistry is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series from 3-4 p.m. on Fridays in Grote Hall Room 411. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 2: Dr. Cathy Murphy, University of Illinois
Oct. 16: Bud Lamonica, Cymer LLC
Oct. 23: Dr. Brian Long, UT Knoxville
Oct. 30: Undergraduate Research Program Poster Session and Reception
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series features a special speaker sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Friday, Oct. 2: Thien Le
Friday, Oct. 23: Ayça Çetinkaya
Friday, Nov. 13: William Erickson
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 5: Nyssa Hunt, Interdisciplinary Geospatial Technology Lab, UTC
Oct. 19: Dr. Ryan Fritts, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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Walgreens will offer on-campus flu vaccine clinics for students, faculty and staff during September and October. No appointment is necessary, but appointments are available to streamline the process.
Tuesday, Oct. 6: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., University Center Tennessee Room
Wednesday, Oct. 7: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Chamberlain Field during the Be Well Health Fair (rain location: University Center Tennessee Room)
Bring your current insurance and pharmacy benefits cards. Free vouchers will be available for those without insurance. Click here to schedule an appointment.
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Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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UTC LIVE! makes its Cadek Hall debut on Tuesday, Oct. 6, with Stundom, a rising Danish folk group making its first American tour. The UTC performance is the first stop on Stundom’s tour. Drawing on Scandinavian dance music and storytelling traditions, the group blends violin, cittern and piano with elements of chamber and symphonic music. Stundom has been nominated multiple times for Danish Music Awards Roots/Folk honors, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year.
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The cast of the UTC Theatre Co.’s “The Revolutionists” includes (clockwise from top left) Mahogany Sales as Marianne Angelle, Gracie Headrick as Marie Antoinette, Cameron Schulz as Charlotte Corday, and Lily Phillips as Olympe de Gouges. Photo courtesy of UTC Theatre Co.
When the world is falling apart, what can—and should—an artist do?
That question drives “The Revolutionists,” Lauren Gunderson’s irreverent comedy about four women who find themselves at the center of the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror. The UTC Theatre Co. will present the production at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6-10, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Oct. 10, in the Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre in the UTC Fine Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office, either in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $20 for general admission, plus service fees, and $15 for students (with a valid student ID) and seniors.
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The UTC College of Nursing invites faculty, staff, students, friends, family and community members to its Fall Festival from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, on the lawn of the Metropolitan Building, 518 Oak St.
Enjoy an afternoon of fall festivities, including popcorn, pumpkin painting, crafts, games and a costume contest. Attendees can also learn more about UTC Nursing programs and connect with representatives from local health care organizations, including Erlanger, Siskin, CommonSpirit and the Hamilton County Health Department. Click here to view the full flyer.
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The UTC Quantum Center will host Dr. Wonhee Ko of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, for its upcoming colloquium on Thursday, Oct. 8. Ko will present “Probing Unconventional Superconductivity by Multi-Particle Tunneling Spectroscopy.”
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With the 2027-28 FAFSA opening Oct. 1, students can stop by the Financial Aid Office for free, in-person FAFSA support during FAFSA Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9; Friday, Oct. 23; and Friday, Oct. 30. No appointment is needed.
Staff can help with questions, troubleshooting and figuring out next steps. Virtual FAFSA appointments are also available through the Financial Wellness Center. For more information, click here.
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Registration is open for Mocs in the Mountains Leadership Retreat, a free leadership retreat for UTC students taking place Friday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 18, at Fort Mountain Retreat Center. Students at any level of leadership experience are invited to spend the weekend strengthening their leadership skills, connecting with other Mocs and exploring how they can make an impact at UTC and beyond.
Transportation, lodging and meals are provided at no cost to participants. Space is limited, and registration is required. Click here to register. For questions, contact the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community at engage@utc.edu.
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The Department of Communication has launched “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring trust and community. The series will continue at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall with Robert D. Putnam presenting “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States.
The event is free and open to the public. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speaker can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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Join the Department of Mathematics for a Pumpkin Carving and Course Preview from 3:30-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Engineering and Computer Science Room 422.
Students thinking about their spring courses can meet instructors, learn what they’ll be studying and get a sneak peek at upcoming courses. Math Club, Pi Mu Epsilon and AWM are teaming up for the event, which will also feature pumpkin carving and food.
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The UTC Bookstore, in partnership with UTC Alumni, will host a 2026 graduation celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Mocs Bookstore.
Graduating students can pick up pre-ordered regalia or purchase regalia, have cap and gown photos taken by a photographer, order class rings and announcements, and connect with campus departments for help with graduation needs. Students can also register for door prizes.
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The College of Arts and Sciences invites faculty, staff and students to the AI Symposium on Research and Teaching Across the Humanities and Social Sciences from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, in University Center Room 315.
The symposium will bring together faculty from across the humanities and social sciences to share AI-related research, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The schedule includes:
9:30-10 a.m.: A cross-disciplinary conversation about the new AI Certificate being developed by the College of Arts and Sciences.
10:10-11:45 a.m.: Faculty research presentations from Zachary Simoni, Chandra Ward, Andrew J. Van Slyke, Marcus D. Mauldin and Nagwan R. Zahry.
1:35-2:20 p.m.: Faculty research presentations from Chris Vidmar, Rowan Johnson, Brandon Bouchillon and Jeremy Strickler.
The symposium will also feature guest speaker Hunter Heyck, director of the Center for Creativity and Authenticity in AI Cultural Production at the University of Oklahoma, who will discuss building interdisciplinary research teams and exploring opportunities for external funding.
Click here to register in advance for the in-person panels.
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The UTC Homecoming Parade is back in a new format. On Friday, Nov. 6, community members are invited to line Vine Street to watch the parade, then follow it to Chamberlain Pavilion for a pep rally featuring the UTC Marching Mocs, Spirit Squads, campus leadership and more.
The parade will begin at 5 p.m., and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from vendors on Chamberlain Field. Click here to RSVP to attend, or click here to register to participate in the parade.
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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.
Friday, Oct. 2: Edward Steele (Ph.D./Computational Science), Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 3:30 p.m., Calendar
Wednesday, Oct. 7: Elvis Frimpong (Master’s/Mathematics), Lupton Hall Room 302, 3:30 p.m., Calendar
Campus Updates
The Public Service Award is a $1,000 scholarship awarded by the UTC Alumni Board of Directors and the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. Two undergraduate students displaying the most distinguished service to the UTC campus as well as the Chattanooga community will each receive a $1,000 scholarship.
University service includes totally voluntary positions (campus committees, student orientation groups, Greek memberships, etc.) or positions which are accompanied by a stipend (student government association positions, admissions and recruiting work, publication staffs, etc.). Community public service can include such involvement as volunteer work in hospitals, counseling, tutoring, environmental services, or any service that is not paid and does not receive academic credit.
The award is presented during half time of the Homecoming game and there are no restrictions on the way the financial award is used. Receiving this award may impact other scholarship monies.
The annual award is given to a UTC undergraduate student who:
Is carrying a full semester load of a minimum of 12 hours.
Has a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
Has not previously received the UTC Public Service Award
Submits a letter of reference (from faculty, administrator, and/or volunteer organizational advisor)
Click here to apply. The application deadline is Monday, Oct. 19.
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WUTC’s Fall Fund Drive begins Thursday, Oct. 1, and runs through Sunday, Oct. 11.
A public service of the University, WUTC is home to NPR programming in our area; local hosts Ray Bassett, Haley Solomon, Paul Jorgensen and Clark Gibson; and learning opportunities for students on the UTC campus.
WUTC’s funding comes 100% from listeners like you here in Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley. Please support WUTC at wutc.org and click the Donate button.
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UTC will bring the fifth annual Power C Tour to four Tennessee cities this fall, giving prospective students and their families an opportunity to learn about academic programs, admissions, financial aid, housing and campus life.
The Power C Tour is UTC’s statewide outreach effort to connect directly with high school students, transfer students, graduate students and their families in their own communities. At each stop, visitors can meet with representatives from UTC academic colleges and student services, talk with current students and learn more about the opportunities and support available at the University.
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The 1886 Challenge has reached 6,138 volunteer hours toward its goal of 18,860 hours. Members of the Rollins Scholars recently contributed to the total by volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House, where they helped clean and prepare the house to welcome its next group of residents.
The 1886 Challenge calls on faculty, staff and students to collectively contribute 18,860 hours of community service during the 2026-27 academic year. The initiative highlights service already taking place across the University through volunteer work, mentoring, service-learning and outreach.
Faculty, staff and students who have volunteered in the community can submit their hours through the 1886 Challenge form and help move UTC closer to its goal. Submitted photos can also be viewed in the photo gallery at the top of the 1886 Challenge page.
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The College of Health, Education and Professional Studies is showing its Mocs spirit. Ashleigh Pipes, Alexandra Solesbee, Dean Valerie Rutledge, Ashtyn Cornett, Becca McCashin, Elizabeth Crawford, Wesley Odum and Amanda Chambers came together to show off their Gold Fridays attire.
Remember to wear your gold every Friday and help turn campus UTC gold. We want to see your Gold Fridays photos—whether it’s a group shot with your department or classmates, or a solo photo showing your Mocs pride. Faculty, staff and students are all encouraged to participate. Click here to submit your Gold Fridays photo and learn more about the tradition,
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Student Success Programs is looking to add mentors to its roster.
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. Additional information will be shared with those who express interest.
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UTC Athletics has introduced the new Student Access Pass for the 2026-27 academic year. The digital pass gives full-time UTC students admission to all ticketed home football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, wrestling and softball games without claiming a ticket for each event.
The pass can be downloaded through your account at GoMocs.com/Tickets and added to your Apple or Google Wallet for easy entry throughout the season. Click here for more information and FAQs.
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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Sept. 30: Office for URaCE September Student Workshops will cover getting started in undergraduate research, navigating undergraduate research positions and mentors, and identifying and applying for paid summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs). Attendees will receive complimentary URaCE swag and earn a research micro-credential badge. Click here to register.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions will feature 16 graduate students competing in the Three Minute Thesis Competition and 19 undergraduate students competing in the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition in the University Center Auditorium. The program will also include speakers, People’s Choice Award audience participation and more. Click here to view the schedule of events.
Paid summer research opportunities: Encourage undergraduate students to apply for paid Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. Funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and other organizations, REUs typically offer eight to 10 weeks of hands-on summer research along with a stipend, housing and travel allowances, and professional development. Click here to learn more.
Summer research and study abroad: Undergraduate students can explore summer research opportunities in the United Kingdom, Thailand, Croatia, Hungary and other locations. Funding is available to help offset program costs. Click here to learn more and apply.
Summer Business Research Internship in Vietnam: Undergraduate students can complete research internships in Ho Chi Minh City through a program presented by the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, Office for URaCE and Center for Global Education. Click here to learn more.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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Enjoy half-price admission to the Tennessee Aquarium and 45-minute documentary films during College Days, through Wednesday, Sept. 30. The discount is available to UTC students, faculty and staff, as well as their friends and family.
Tickets must be purchased onsite. To receive the discount, present a UTC ID, transcript or pay stub at the Aquarium ticketing center. Timed entry is in effect, and wait times may apply. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium’s College Days webpage for pricing, membership discounts and additional information.
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Faculty and staff are invited to participate in the UT Wellness: Know How, Know Now Challenge through Saturday, Oct. 10. Complete three self-paced K@TE trainings on mental health warning signs, opioid overdose response and suicide prevention while helping UTC compete for the highest employee participation rate across the UT System.
Employees who complete all three trainings will receive a digital certificate and be entered into a drawing for one of 10 $50 gift cards and UT Wellness blankets. The opioid overdose response training was created with the help of UTC’s Kat James, and the suicide prevention training was developed with input from Amy Kyriakidis, both from the Center for Wellbeing. Click here to join the challenge.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Thinking about earning an advanced degree? UTC employees can take advantage of the University’s education benefit to pursue programs like UTC’s M.S. in Computer Science, a program specifically designed to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, including healthcare, psychology, linguistics, and other non-technical fields. The program provides a pathway for career changers and lifelong learners looking to build new skills and expand future opportunities
Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
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. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
Brian Freeman
Brian Freeman’s 42-year journey toward a degree wasn’t a matter of if, but of when, and he learned that the journey itself matters. Freeman credits UTC’s support for helping him reach his upcoming graduation in December 2026. He has spent the past two semesters working toward it through the Leadership and Learning (LEAP) program.
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Chancellor Lori Bruce spoke at Meigs County High School.
The UT System’s “Find Your Future” high school tour visited four Southeast Tennessee high schools bringing cheers, songs and information about higher education opportunities across the UT System. UT System President Randy Boyd and UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce visited Meigs County High School, McMinn County High School, Polk County High School and Central High School of McMinn County.
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UTC student Brianna Johnson spent her Dolly Day as a volunteer reading books at Tommie F. Brown Academy.
Dolly Parton was an East Tennessee girl before she became a country music icon. “When I was growing up in the hills of East Tennessee, I knew my dreams would come true,” Parton once said.
The date was a nod to one of Parton’s best-known roles in “9 to 5,” with 9/25 offering a chance to recognize her work in music, education, literacy and philanthropy.
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UTC offers many resources to guide students in the right direction to achieve the strongest growth possible. UTC’s Center for Academic Support and Advisement (CASA) is a resource all students can turn to when this shift becomes difficult.
WUTC
Dr. Olivia Bagby, Monica Kinsey and James McKissic
WUTC’s “Scenic Roots,” in collaboration with ArtsBuild, introduces “The Overlap,” a new community podcast exploring the shared skills and materials of trade professionals and fine artists.
The first episode, “Education and Opportunities: The Infrastructure of Imagination,” features Dr. Olivia Bagby, director of Future Ready Students for Hamilton County Schools; James McKissic, president of ArtsBuild; and Monica Kinsey, deputy administrator of arts, culture and creative economy for the City of Chattanooga.
September 22-28, 2026
Updates and news for the week of September 22-28, 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.
In her first State of the University address, UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce spoke to faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members about UTC’s 140-year history, recent successes and the momentum that will drive the University forward.Click here to watch the 140th anniversary video.
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SUBMIT EVENTS FOR 2026 HOMECOMING WEEK: MOCS2K
Homecoming 2026, MOCS2K, will take place Saturday, Oct. 31, through Saturday, Nov. 7. Campus departments are invited to submit events that connect to the Homecoming theme and complement activities planned throughout the week.
Priority deadline:Friday, Sept. 25 (eligible for printed marketing materials and the online calendar)
Final deadline:Friday, Oct. 9 (eligible for the online calendar only)
All event submissions will be reviewed by the University Homecoming Committee. Click here to learn more, view the current schedule and submit an event. If you have an idea but need help developing it or finding the best fit in the schedule, contact engage@utc.edu.
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CELEBRATING SERVICE
Carole Geter (right) holds up a “Power C” with Chancellor Lori Bruce.
UTC recognized 183 faculty and staff members for their years of service during the annual Service Awards Luncheon as part of Founder’s Week. The event celebrated employees marking service anniversaries ranging from five to 40 years.
“Thank you for what you do to make our University special and to make the student experience special, to serve our students and to serve each other,” Chancellor Lori Bruce told the honorees.
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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
It is time to recruit campus partners to send 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—including upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30. The September newsletter will be emailed to members on Wednesday, October. 7.
Please keep submissions to one paragraph of 200 (or fewer) words.
Images or logos to accompany the paragraph may be submitted.
From left: Joshua Hamblen, Loren Hayes, Shaogang Ren, Serkan Varol and Yingfeng Wang
The Ruth S. Holmberg Grants support faculty members who have demonstrated the potential and ability to function at a higher level of scholarship, engage students in addressing problems of contemporary importance through research efforts, or work with tenured faculty members or the administration in building innovative curricula. Each Holmberg recipient will receive up to $5,000 in funding to support their proposal. The recipients of the Holmberg Grants for 2026-27 are:
Dr. Joshua Hamblen, Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy
Dr. Loren Hayes, Professor, Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science
Dr. Shaogang Ren, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering
Dr. Serkan Varol, Associate Professor, Department of Engineering Management and Technology
Dr. Yingfeng Wang, Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering
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Dr. Ziwei Ma
UTC Associate Professor of Mathematics Ziwei Ma is bringing statistical expertise to a multi-university research project developing wearable technology and artificial intelligence tools to support rehabilitation for people with neurological motor disorders.
Supported by a U.S. National Science Foundation award through its Smart and Connected Health program, the project brings together researchers in engineering, physical therapy and statistics.
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Dr. Nagwan Zahry (left) and Dr. Feng Guo
Dr. Nagwan Zahry of the Department of Communication and Dr. Feng Guo of the Department of Psychology received a UT System Wellness Mini-Grant for their project “From Wellness to Well-Tech: Identifying Gaps in Campus Wellness Support and Opportunities for AI-Enhanced Student Services.” The project will explore how artificial intelligence and strategic communication can improve access to campus wellness resources and strengthen student support.
UTC was also recognized in the inaugural Well-Pitched UT Wellness Mini-Grant Competition. The winning project, “Dialectical Behavior Therapy Group Intervention Program for High-Risk Students at the UT Chattanooga Counseling Center,” supports students experiencing chronic stress or suicidal thoughts. Runner-up honors went to “Cultivating Resilience in Undergraduate Nursing Students,” an initiative designed to strengthen resilience and self-care skills among nursing students.
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Amy Doolittle (left) and Mary Andrews
Two members of the Department of Social Work faculty recently received honors recognizing their professional leadership and service.
Dr. Amy Doolittle, associate professor and MSW program director, was re-elected to the National Association of Social Workers Tennessee Chapter Board of Directors. She was also appointed by Gov. Bill Lee to serve on the Tennessee Board of Social Workers.
Clinical Associate Professor Mary Andrews was appointed to serve on the Regional Health Council on Aging and Disability.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
Chancellor Lori Bruce wrote an op-ed piece for the Times Free Press about what comes next for UTC after celebrating 140 years.
Local 3 News and News 12 Now covered Chancellor Lori Bruce’s State of the University address and UTC’s birthday celebration. The Times Free Press published a photo gallery of the event.
The Times Free Press and News 12 Now covered Chattanooga Connect, an annual conference hosted by the UTC Research Institute.
Anthropology student Tom Laufenberg spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about his work with UTC’s archaeology team at McCoy Farms on Signal Mountain.
UC Foundation Professor of health and human performance Liz Hathaway joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss best health practices.
Assistant Professor of Practice in the College of Nursing Savannah Kelley spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about postpartum psychosis.
A Times Free Press story about Chattanooga’s expanding traffic technology included Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Mina Sartipi.
Senior business management student Cadden Bradford was featured by The Echo for receiving national recognition at the Fit Body World Conference in Dallas.
Friday, Sept.25: Volleyball vs. Wofford, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Sept.26: Volleyball vs. Wofford, Maclellan Gym, 5 p.m.
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Discover how computer science and engineering connect to careers across every field at Computer Science and Engineering Discovery Day from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. today (Sept. 22) in the University Center Tennessee Room.
Open to all UTC students, faculty and staff, the event will feature hands-on activities, research demonstrations and innovation showcases highlighting topics such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity and digital technologies. No technical experience is required. Participants can also win prizes.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate 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.
Scrappy’s Market returns, offering free fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Today (Sept. 22)
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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The next Staff Senate meeting will take place from 2-4 p.m. today (Sept. 22) in the University Center Auditorium and via Zoom.
Topics will include campus AI with Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Elizabeth O’Brien, an HR Minute with Associate Vice Chancellor Laure Pou, a campus space panel and a “Campus Conversation” with Director of Space Management Danielle Williams. The meeting will also include updates from the Communications, Curiosity and Employee Relations committees. Click here for more information.
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Installation view of “Reconsidered Recollections,” featuring works displayed in the UTC gallery, including Pam Reeves Macon’s Untitled Batik Tapestry at right.
The Institute of Contemporary Art Chattanooga will host a closing reception for “Reconsidered Recollections” from 4:30-6:30 p.m. today (Sept. 22) at ICA Chattanooga in the Fine Arts Center.
The student-curated exhibition, supervised by Dr. Bart Pushaw, brings works from UTC’s permanent collection back into public view. As part of the closing reception, Natalie Wells will give a special talk on her research into Pam Reeves Macon’s 1970 batik tapestry.
The project is supported by a High-Impact Practices Grant from the Walker Center for Teaching and Learning. The reception is free and open to the public.
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Meet with 48 employers from across the region at the Career Connections Fall Career Fair from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 23, in the University Center Tennessee Room. Employers will be recruiting for current full-time jobs and internship opportunities.
Bring copies of your resume and dress in business professional attire to make a strong impression. Need help preparing? Career Connections can assist with resume reviews, mock interviews and career fair preparation. Students can also schedule an appointment with the Career Closet to receive one free professional outfit.
Click here for more information or to schedule an appointment, or call 423-425-4184.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Walgreens will offer on-campus flu vaccine clinics for students, faculty and staff during September and October. No appointment is necessary, but appointments are available to streamline the process.
Wednesday, Sept. 23: 3-7 p.m., Lupton Hall Commons
Thursday, Sept. 24: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Lupton Hall Commons
Tuesday, Oct. 6: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., University Center Tennessee Room
Wednesday, Oct. 7: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Chamberlain Field during the Be Well Health Fair (rain location: University Center Tennessee Room)
Bring your current insurance and pharmacy benefits cards. Free vouchers will be available for those without insurance. Click here to schedule an appointment.
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Mesha Maren
The 2026 Meacham Writers’ Workshop will take place Wednesday, Sept. 23, through Saturday, Sept. 26, bringing writers, readers and students together for four days of readings, conversations and workshops celebrating Appalachian and Southern literature.
This year’s featured visiting writer and Stove Works Fellow is novelist Mesha Maren, author of “Sugar Run,” “Perpetual West” and “Shae.” Maren will participate in an Appalachian writers panel, visit local public schools and lead a writing workshop at Stove Works on Saturday, Sept. 26.
All Meacham Writers’ Workshop events are free and open to the public. Click here to view the full schedule, including event times and locations.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business invites students to pitch business or product ideas and receive feedback during the Changemaker Challenge—no business plan or prototype required—at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 23, in the Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC during the Spanish Film Festival, featuring five free film screenings in the University Center Auditorium.
Wednesday, Sept. 23: Spider Thieves (Niñas Araña), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Thursday, Oct. 1: In the Heights (En un barrio), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Wednesday, Oct. 7: La Suprema, 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Thursday, Oct. 15: Chinese Take-Away (Un cuento chino), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
The Spanish Film Festival is presented by the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and co-sponsored by Latin American Studies, A Moc’s First Year, Life Out Loud, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Film and Television minor, the Department of Communication and the Spanish Club.
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The Center for Wellbeing is recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month with events and training opportunities throughout September.
Thursday, Sept. 24: QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training will be offered to help participants recognize and respond to someone in crisis.
The Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) training is now available through K@TE. The course helps faculty and staff recognize suicide risk and respond with confidence.
For more information about these events and resources, or to get involved in suicide prevention efforts on campus, contact Amy Kyriakidis.
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Learn about UTC’s graduate programs at the Graduate School Fair from noon-2 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
Explore more than 30 graduate programs, connect with faculty and staff, learn about admissions and career opportunities, and enjoy free food, giveaways and application fee waivers. The event is open to anyone interested in advancing their education and career through UTC graduate programs.
Click here for more information and to register. Application fee waivers apply to completed domestic applications submitted through Oct. 11.
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Join the Outdoor Recreation Mapathon from noon-6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, at Outdoor Chattanooga in Coolidge Park and help create the best outdoor recreation map in America. Hosted through a partnership between the UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science, the City of Chattanooga, CARTA, Outdoor Chattanooga and Chattanooga National Park City, the event will feature mapping activities, a Learn to Map station and opportunities to support Chattanooga’s National Park City efforts. No mapping experience is required, and all are welcome.
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The Department of Communication will launch “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring the intersection of trust and community, with events scheduled this fall in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall.
The series will feature nationally recognized scholars whose work has shaped conversations around civic engagement and social infrastructure:
Thursday, Sept. 24: Eric Klinenberg will present “The Power of Social Infrastructure,” examining how shared public spaces—from libraries to parks—can strengthen communities, 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: Robert D. Putnam will present “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States, 6 p.m.
Both events are free and open to the public. Faculty, students and community members are encouraged to attend. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speakers can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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Build the professional skills that help you stand out in interviews, internships and the workplace. Join Farnoosh Brock on Friday, Sept. 25, for interactive sessions focused on confidence, communication, networking and leadership.
Come for one session or stay for them all:
11 a.m. – Confidence and the Power of Voice
Noon – Conversation Strategies
1 p.m. – Free lunch
1:30 p.m. – Networking and Relationship Building
2:30 p.m. – Entrepreneurship and Innovative Thinking
Following sessions – One-on-one coaching and mentoring
The event is open to all students, and free lunch will be provided. Click here to reserve your spot on MocSync.
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Your UTC Music Faculty are taking the stage. Enjoy an hour of live music featuring a variety of works performed by members of the UTC Music faculty from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall in the Fine Arts Center. The recital is free and open to all.
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The Department of Chemistry is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series from 3-4 p.m. on Fridays in Grote Hall Room 411. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Sept. 25: Dr. Adam Offenbacher, East Carolina University
Oct. 2: Dr. Cathy Murphy, University of Illinois
Oct. 16: Bud Lamonica, Cymer LLC
Oct. 23: Dr. Brian Long, UT Knoxville
Oct. 30: Undergraduate Research Program Poster Session and Reception
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Celebrate the life and legacy of Dolly Parton with the Department of Political Science and Public Service at 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, in Derthick Hall Room 201.
The free event will feature a screening of “9 to 5,” Dolly-themed trivia, a costume contest, music and snacks. Guests are also invited to honor Dolly’s legacy of philanthropy through optional donations. Organizers hope to raise $740—$9.25 for each year of Dolly’s life—with Dr. Michelle Evans matching the first $250 donated. New children’s books, canned goods and other nonperishable food items will also be collected to support Scrappy’s Cupboard and Dolly-related charitable causes. The event is free and open to all.
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Help support the College of Arts and Sciences Residential College (A&SRC) by volunteering at IRONMAN Chattanooga on Sunday, Sept. 27, at Run Aid Station 1 on Riverfront Parkway between Lindsay and Houston streets, one block from McKenzie Arena.
Click here to register. Select “Run Aid Station 1” and list UTC A&SRC as your group when prompted. For questions, contact Dr. Nikolasa Tejero.
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Celebrate Recovery Month this September with Mocs Recovery and learn how to better support members of the UTC community in recovery by attending Recovery Allyship Training for faculty and staff from 12:15-1:15 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 28. Register through K@TE.
Follow @MocsRecovery on Instagram and share its posts throughout Recovery Month. Click here for more information about Mocs Recovery.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Sept. 28: Dr. Hope Klug, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 5: Nyssa Hunt, Interdisciplinary Geospatial Technology Lab, UTC
Oct. 19: Dr. Ryan Fritts, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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An eight-week summer 2027 business research internship opportunity in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is available for up to five UTC students.
Thursday, Oct. 1: 1 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon, Fletcher Hall Room 109
Dr. Robert Dooley, dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, will lead the information sessions. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to COBInternational@utc.edu. The application deadline is Sunday, Nov. 1. Click here for more information and to apply.
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Mocs Give Day returns on Tuesday, Oct. 6, bringing the UTC community together for a 24-hour online giving challenge in support of current and future Mocs. Alumni, students, faculty, staff, families and friends can make an impact through gifts that strengthen scholarships, programs and opportunities across campus. Every gift tells a story, and every gift helps shape the future of UTC. Learn more at mocsgiveday.utc.edu.
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The Obear family invites the UTC community to come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear. A Celebration of Life Reception will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center. Those unable to attend who would like to share a remembrance of Dr. Obear with the family can do so through this link.
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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.
Thursday, Sept. 24: Kaitlin Brown (Master’s/Criminal Justice), UTC Library Room 326, 1 p.m., Calendar
Friday, Oct. 2: Edward Steele (Ph.D./Computational Science), Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 3:30 p.m., Calendar
The 1886 Challenge is now up to 5,937 volunteer hours, thanks in part to Students in the HEALTH Residential Learning Community, who volunteered with First-Centenary United Methodist Church’s ABIDE Respite Ministry. The group spent time playing games with program participants on Sept. 9.
The 1886 Challenge calls on faculty, staff and students to collectively contribute 18,860 hours of community service during the 2026-27 academic year. The initiative highlights service already taking place across the University through volunteer work, mentoring, service-learning and outreach.
Help us keep the momentum going. If you’ve volunteered in the community, submit your hours through the 1886 Challenge form and help us move closer to our goal of 18,860 hours. You can also view all submitted photos in the photo gallery at the bottom of the 1886 Challenge page.
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Getting to class can be one of the most routine parts of a student’s day, but the hassle of parking, navigating Chattanooga’s heat and long walks across campus can throw that routine off. For students looking to ease these burdens, UTC offers the Mocs Express shuttle as a convenient, safe way to get around campus free of charge.
The shuttle system, run in partnership with the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), has been serving UTC for more than a decade and is free to all students, faculty and staff with a Mocs ID. All Mocs Express buses are ADA accessible.
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UTC Athletics has introduced the new Student Access Pass for the 2026-27 academic year. The digital pass gives full-time UTC students admission to all ticketed home football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, wrestling and softball games without claiming a ticket for each event.
The pass can be downloaded through your account at GoMocs.com/Tickets and added to your Apple or Google Wallet for easy entry throughout the season. Click here for more information and FAQs.
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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Sept. 23; Thursday, Sept. 24; and Wednesday, Sept. 30: Office for URaCE September Student Workshops will cover getting started in undergraduate research, navigating undergraduate research positions and mentors, and identifying and applying for paid summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs). Attendees will receive complimentary URaCE swag and earn a research micro-credential badge. Click here to register.
Paid summer research opportunities: Encourage undergraduate students to apply for paid Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. Funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and other organizations, REUs typically offer eight to 10 weeks of hands-on summer research along with a stipend, housing and travel allowances, and professional development. Click here to learn more.
Summer research and study abroad: Undergraduate students can explore summer research opportunities in the United Kingdom, Thailand, Croatia, Hungary and other locations. Funding is available to help offset program costs. Click here to learn more and apply.
Summer Business Research Internship in Vietnam: Undergraduate students can complete research internships in Ho Chi Minh City through a program presented by the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, Office for URaCE and Center for Global Education. Click here to learn more.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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Enjoy half-price admission to the Tennessee Aquarium and 45-minute documentary films during College Days, through Sept. 30. The discount is available to UTC students, faculty and staff, as well as their friends and family.
Tickets must be purchased onsite. To receive the discount, present a UTC ID, transcript or pay stub at the Aquarium ticketing center. Timed entry is in effect, and wait times may apply. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium’s College Days webpage for pricing, membership discounts and additional information.
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Faculty and staff are invited to participate in the UT Wellness: Know How, Know Now Challenge through Saturday, Oct. 10. Complete three self-paced K@TE trainings on mental health warning signs, opioid overdose response and suicide prevention while helping UTC compete for the highest employee participation rate across the UT System.
Employees who complete all three trainings will receive a digital certificate and be entered into a drawing for one of 10 $50 gift cards and UT Wellness blankets. The opioid overdose response training was created with the help of UTC’s Kat James, and the suicide prevention training was developed with input from Amy Kyriakidis, both from the Center for Wellbeing. Click here to join the challenge.
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Student Outreach and Support (SOS) and Scrappy’s Cupboard have moved to University Center Room 302. SOS is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Scrappy’s Cupboard is open from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. to support students throughout the semester.
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Thinking about earning an advanced degree? UTC employees can take advantage of the University’s education benefit to pursue programs like UTC’s M.S. in Computer Science, a program specifically designed to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, including healthcare, psychology, linguistics, and other non-technical fields. The program provides a pathway for career changers and lifelong learners looking to build new skills and expand future opportunities
Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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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.
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.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
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.
Want to learn more about the Mosaic Program? The Mosaic team is visiting departments across campus to share program updates, introduce new staff members and answer questions about supporting UTC’s neurodiverse community—all while bringing cookies.
Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.
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Adobe Stock Image
As artificial intelligence becomes a bigger part of day-to-day work across industries, the UTC Center for Professional Education will offer two online programs in September to help working professionals build practical AI skills for different needs and experience levels.
The two offerings are AI Essentials with Prompting, a live online workshop scheduled for Sept. 17, and CompTIA Security AI+ Certification Prep, an eight-week live online course that begins Sept. 19. Together, the programs give learners two entry points into AI-related professional development: one focused on broad workplace fluency, productivity and responsible use, and one designed for cybersecurity professionals working in a threat environment increasingly shaped by AI. Click here for more information or to register.
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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. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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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.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is 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 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
For the first time in UTC history, fireworks lit the sky above campus. As Katy Perry’s “Firework” played in the West Campus Housing Courtyard, the fireworks—launched from Lot 7 beside Maclellan Gym—capped an evening of Founder’s Week festivities that brought together students, alumni and University supporters.
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UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce and Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Mina Sartipi
The third annual Chattanooga Connect conference, hosted by the UTC Research Institute (UTCRI), was held last week. The three-day event brought together transportation, technology, government, research and industry leaders to discuss how to move emerging technologies from promising pilots to broader, real-world deployment.
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UTC students, faculty and staff spread out across the city to take part in United Way of Greater Chattanooga’s Day of Caring.The annual event, United Way’s largest citywide volunteer day, brings together local businesses, nonprofits and community members to work on projects throughout Chattanooga.
This year, UTC volunteers served at numerous locations, including the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer, Chattanooga Area Food Bank, Chattanooga Zoo, City of Chattanooga Department of Parks and Outdoors, and The Momentum Network.
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A newly unveiled portrait of Dr. Tommie F. Brown is displayed near the academy’s front entrance, where students, families and visitors will encounter the legacy of the educator, social worker, civil rights leader and former state representative.
Students and families recently gathered with UTC representatives and community partners for an open house at Tommie F. Brown Academy that brought together a resource fair, a back-to-school celebration and a tribute to the school’s namesake.
WUTC
Karen Shostak (left), Jonathan Susman and Brian Smith
On WUTC’s “The Parkside Podcast,” hosts Brian Smith of the City of Chattanooga’s Parks and Outdoors and Karen Shostak of Hamilton County Parks and Recreation talk with Jonathan Susman, executive director of McKenzie Arena, about where Chattanooga’s parks and music meet. The podcast is produced in collaboration with Ray Bassett of WUTC’s “Scenic Roots.”
IN Memoriam
Dr. Leila Johnston Pratt, longtime Hart professor of economics and professor emeritus, died Wednesday, Sept. 9, at age 77. Pratt devoted 43 years to UTC before retiring in 2017, teaching and influencing an estimated 12,000 students. An accomplished researcher, she published extensively in economics journals and taught courses ranging from econometrics to environmental and sports economics. Pratt earned her Ph.D. from Virginia Tech and remained Professor Emeritus until her passing. Her 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.
