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.

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

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Highlights

Celebrating 140 years of UTC

In her first State of the University address, UTC Chancellor Lori Mann 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.

The address, held in the University Center Auditorium, is a tradition that is part of Founder’s Week, an annual celebration of UTC’s anniversary. 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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Highlight 3 Heading 2

Outstanding People of UTC

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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Check out these Mocs in the news:

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.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

Friday, Sept. 25: Softball vs. Chattanooga State, Frost Stadium, 4:30 p.m.
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. on 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. Click here to save the date.

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

MSM Information Sessions

Today (Sept. 22): Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 28: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MAcc Information Sessions

Tuesday, Sept. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 8: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 27: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MSDA Information Sessions

Wednesday, Sept. 30: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 6: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MBA Information Sessions

Wednesday, Oct. 7: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 30: Noon: Register Here

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

Wednesday, Oct. 14: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

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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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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.

Wednesday, Sept. 23: 12:30 p.m., Zoom
Wednesday, Sept. 30: 4 p.m., Zoom
Thursday, Oct. 1: 11:30 a.m., Zoom
Tuesday, Oct. 6: 4:15 p.m., Zoom
Thursday, Oct. 8: 11:30 a.m., Zoom

Students earn three credit hours on the undergraduate level (MGT 4950) or graduate level (MGT 5950). For more information, contact COBInternational@utc.edu or visit COB International Programs.

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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.

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 will host 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 by attending a community event, participating in a training or showing your support online.

Monday, Sept. 28: Recovery Allyship Training for faculty and staff, 12:15-1:15 p.m. 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 will host 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, UTC Library Room 326, 1 p.m., Calendar

Welcome to UTC

The following employees joined UTC in May:

Brittany Fatoma – Community School Coordinator, School of Education
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Campus Updates

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

Read how three students found their unexpected path into tech in The Unexpected Road to a Master’s in Computer Science and explore what your UTC education benefit could make possible.

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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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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.

Take action today:

Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
- 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.

Click here for more information.

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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

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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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.

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

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.

September 15-21, 2026

Updates and news for the week of September 15-21, 2026

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

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

Highlights

CELEBRATE FOUNDER’S WEEK

Join the UTC community as we celebrate Founder’s Week, through Sunday, Sept. 20, honoring 140 years since the University’s founding in 1886. The week will feature celebrations, traditions, service opportunities and events for students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Chattanooga community.

Today (Sept. 15), Chancellor Lori Bruce will deliver the annual State of the University Address at 2 p.m. in the University Center Auditorium, followed by UTC’s 140th Birthday Party from 3-5 p.m. on Terrell Owens Way and Vine Street with free food truck vouchers, birthday cake, music, games, giveaways and more. Click here to view the full Founder’s Week schedule.

For the first time in UTC history, the University will also host an on-campus fireworks show at approximately 8:10 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17. The fireworks will launch from Lot 7 beside Maclellan Gym. As a safety precaution, the area around Lot 7, including portions of Douglas Street and Mocs Alumni Drive, will be closed from noon-9 p.m., and attendees are asked to watch from a safe distance. Students are also invited to an SGA watch party in the West Campus Housing Courtyard.

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UTC sets graduate student record with second-highest overall enrollment

UTC welcomed 11,809 students for fall 2026, the second-highest enrollment in the University’s 140-year history and set an all-time high for graduate enrollment.

Graduate enrollment reached 1,749 students, a 5% increase over the previous record of 1,664 set last year. The graduate population includes more than 550 professional and research doctoral students, reflecting UTC’s expanding research enterprise and portfolio of advanced academic programs.

UTC also saw significant growth in dual enrollment, with participation increasing by more than 90% from fall 2025. While dual enrollment is a relatively new area of focus for the University, UTC has expanded initiatives with local charter schools and continues to host University High on campus, giving more high school students opportunities to earn college credit before graduation.

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UTC to celebrate staff and faculty achievements

This year, 183 employees will be honored during the UTC Service Awards Annual Luncheon on Wednesday, Sept. 16. The luncheon, a signature event of Founder’s Week, offers University leaders an opportunity to recognize the dedication and commitment of longtime members of the UTC community.

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SKIP THE FEE: FREE APP WEEK

Are you or someone you know considering applying to UTC?

Applying to college can add up quickly, but UTC is offering prospective students a chance to save money during Free Application Week, taking place through Friday, Sept. 18.

During Free App Week, the University will waive its standard $30 undergraduate application fee and $35 Graduate School application fee (domestic applications only) for all applicants who use the code FREEAPP27 in the UTC application portal at utc.edu/apply.

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SUBMIT EVENTS FOR 2026 HOMECOMING WEEK: MOCS2K

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)

Outstanding People of UTC

UC Foundation Professors (from left) Brooke Epperson, Jannatul Ferdoush, Bart Pushaw, Jessica Taylor, Xiunan Wang and Justin Wymer

The UC Foundation continues its support for faculty each academic year with a new class of faculty members honored with UC Foundation Professorships. These selective awards are given to exceptionally productive junior faculty members on the tenure track. This year’s recipients are:

Dr. Brooke Epperson, Associate Professor, College of Nursing
Dr. Jannatul Ferdoush, Assistant Professor, Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science
Professor Bart Pushaw, Assistant Professor, Department of Art
Dr. Jessica Taylor, Associate Professor, Department of Applied Leadership and Learning
Dr. Xiunan Wang, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics
Dr. Justin Wymer, Assistant Professor, Department of English

Each faculty member above receives a $2,500 increase to their base salary, graciously supplied by the UC Foundation.

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Dr. Kumar Yelamarthi (left) and Michael Roeser

Congratulations to UTC faculty and staff who received awards or submitted proposals for sponsored programs in August. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs announced that faculty and staff attracted $2,054,283 in external grant and contract awards during the month and submitted proposals for the potential to generate over $2,168,565 in external funding, if awarded.

Among those receiving awards in August were Dr. Kumar Yelamarthi and Michael Roeser (CECS – Dean’s Office), who received $500,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission for the project titled, “Enhancing Workforce Development in Appalachia through Advanced Engineering Lab Equipment.”

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Dr. Kristi Wick (center)

Dr. Kristi Wick, the Vicky B. Gregg Chair of Gerontology and a UC Foundation associate professor in the UTC College of Nursing, received the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging’s Trusted Partner in Aging Award last week in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

The Trusted Partner in Aging Award recognizes a state, regional or local partner whose collaboration strengthens the aging network through resources, education and partnerships that expand access, enhance support and improve outcomes for older adults. The recognition reflects the work of UTC’s MobileMOC program, which provides health and wellness services to older adults in rural communities across Southeast Tennessee.

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MobileMOC team members, from left, Julie Goonetilleke, marketing and advancement specialist; Emily Clark,, project manager; Dr. Amir Alakaam, MPH program director and associate professor; Dr. Meagan Oslund, interprofessional education and practice coordinator; Lili Reynolds, MobileMOC registered nurse; and Dionne Gray, community health worker, attend the Sept. 10, 2026, Champions of Health Care awards luncheon.

UTC’s MobileMOC program continues to earn recognition for its work supporting older adults and caregivers. The program recently received the Trusted Partner in Aging Award and was also named one of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee’s 2026 Champions of Health Care, an honor recognized by the Chattanooga Times Free Press and EDGE magazine.

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Dr. Erkan Kaplanoglu

Dr. Erkan Kaplanoglu, professor and head of UTC’s Department of Engineering Management and Technology, is leading a team of UTC and Marmara University researchers that has received a U.S. design patent for a wearable device designed to help people with essential tremor.

UTC collaborators include Dr. Ahad Nasab, professor of engineering management and technology and Burkett-Miller Chair of Excellence, and Dr. Gazi Akgun, research assistant professor in the Center for Urban Informatics and Progress. The patented device is designed to reduce hand tremors during everyday activities such as eating, writing and using a computer, advancing UTC’s growing research in biomechatronics and healthcare technology.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

Center for Urban Informatics and Progress (CUIP) Deputy Director and Chief Technology Officer Austin Harris and research assistant professor Gazi Akgun spoke to Local 3 News about UTC’s autonomous shuttle partnership with CARTA.
A News 12 Now story featured the “9/11: A Day of Remembrance” event hosted by UTC.
Local 3 News covered the Chattanooga 9/11 Memorial Ceremony, where the UTC Chamber Singers performed.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo by Ray Soldano/GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

Saturday, Sept. 19: Football vs. Wofford, Finley Stadium, 6 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 20: Women’s soccer vs. The Citadel, Finley Stadium, 1 p.m.

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Yuval Levin

Faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to the 2026 Dr. Richard Gruetzemacher Constitution Day Lecture featuring political thinker and author Yuval Levin.

Drawing from his book “American Covenant,” Levin will discuss how the U.S. Constitution was designed to help a diverse nation navigate disagreement and how its principles of debate, compromise and self-government can help address today’s political and civic divisions. Levin is director of Social, Cultural, and Constitutional Studies at the American Enterprise Institute, editor of National Affairs and a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times.

The lecture begins at 5 p.m. today (Sept. 15) in the University Center Auditorium. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Click here to register. For more information, contact Dr. Josh Ammons.

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The Center for Wellbeing is recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month with events and training opportunities throughout September.

Today (Sept. 15): Reaching Those at Risk will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Derthick Hall. The event includes networking, light refreshments and a panel discussion on supporting high-risk communities. It is open to students, faculty and staff.
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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Discover everything the UTC Library has to offer at the Library Open House from 1-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16, on the first floor of the UTC Library.

Learn about the Library’s resources and support services while enjoying free snacks, swag and activities. Attendees can also enter a giveaway for a chance to win a bag of school supplies.

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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.

Wednesday, Sept. 16: The Office for URaCE Fall Faculty and Staff Open House will be held from 1-3 p.m. in UTC Library Room 435. Stop by to meet the URaCE team, learn about programs and initiatives, enjoy refreshments and pick up free swag. RSVP here.
Sunday, Sept. 20: Registration closes for the Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions, open to graduate and undergraduate students. The Graduate School and URaCE will host the competition on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the University Center. Click here to learn more and register.
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.

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Wednesday, Sept. 16: 4 p.m., Zoom
Wednesday, Sept. 23: 12:30 p.m., Zoom
Wednesday, Sept. 30: 4 p.m., Zoom
Thursday, Oct. 1: 11:30 a.m., Zoom
Tuesday, Oct. 6: 4:15 p.m., Zoom
Thursday, Oct. 8: 11:30 a.m., Zoom

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Celebrate Recovery Month this September with Mocs Recovery by attending a community event, participating in a training or showing your support online.

Wednesday, Sept. 16: Game Night, 5:15-8 p.m., at the Mocs Recovery Lounge.
Monday, Sept. 28: Recovery Allyship Training for faculty and staff, 12:15-1:15 p.m. 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 Gary W. Rollins College of Business will host several events throughout September for students, faculty, staff and the community.

Thursday, Sept. 17: Shop student-made products at the Mocs Marketplace pop-up, from noon-4 p.m. on Oak Street in front of Founders Hall. Students interested in becoming vendors must apply by Thursday, Sept. 10.
Wednesday, Sept. 23: Students are invited to pitch business or product ideas and receive feedback during the Changemaker Challenge—no business plan or prototype required—at 4 p.m. in the Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

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MBA Information Sessions

Thursday, Sept. 17: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 7: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 30: Noon: Register Here

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

Friday, Sept. 18: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 14: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MSM Information Sessions

Tuesday, Sept. 22: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 28: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MAcc Information Sessions

Tuesday, Sept. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 8: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 27: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MSDA Information Sessions

Wednesday, Sept. 30: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 6: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

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Jazz pianist Benny Green opens the UTC LIVE! season in a benefit concert for WUTC-FM 88.1.

The UTC LIVE! season opens Thursday, Sept. 17, with jazz pianist Benny Green performing a benefit concert for WUTC-FM 88.1 in the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall. Born in New York City and raised in Berkeley, California, Green began performing professionally as a child and later worked with Betty Carter, Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, Freddie Hubbard and the Ray Brown Trio. He also recorded with Oscar Peterson and Diana Krall and has continued leading his own trio and recording as a bandleader.

UTC LIVE! will move most of its 2026-27 performances to Cadek Hall, giving the series a smaller setting that better fits the artists and programs it presents.

Known for bringing noted artists to campus who are outside the mainstream, UTC LIVE! will present jazz, Danish folk music, a historically informed Beethoven program and a marimba recital, with most of the season taking place in Cadek Hall’s 217-seat recital hall—a space especially well suited for piano, jazz and other acoustic performances. The smaller setting also brings audiences closer to the stage, allowing eye contact between performers and audience members.

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Explore a career in healthcare at the Medical Programs Open House from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, on the first floor of the James R. Mapp Building. Learn about training opportunities in Certified Nursing Assistant, Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Billing and Coding, Phlebotomy Technician and Pharmacy Technician through hands-on demonstrations and conversations with instructors, staff, employers and community partners. Representatives from the Center for Professional Education and the American Job Center will also be available to discuss potential funding opportunities. Click here to RSVP.

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Help support Scrappy’s Cupboard during the annual Founders Week Food Drive, held through Friday, Sept. 18. Donation bins will be located in Lupton Hall Room 118, the University Center Room 302 and near the information desk in the UTC Library.

Most-needed items include pasta, cereal, toilet paper, sports drinks, canned fruit and cleaning wipes. Donations can also be made through the Amazon Wishlist. Every donation helps ensure UTC students have access to food and essential supplies.

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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science will host 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. 21: Dr. Yingfeng Wang, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, UTC
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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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC during the Spanish Film Festival, featuring five free film screenings in the University Center Auditorium. The festival begins Monday, Sept. 21, with a screening of “From the Land to Your Table” (¿Qué culpa tiene el tomate?) at 3 p.m., followed by a performance by Mariachi Aventurero at 5 p.m. on Chamberlain Field. The first 100 attendees will receive free nachos.

Monday, Sept. 21: From the Land to Your Table (¿Qué culpa tiene el tomate?), 3 p.m., 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

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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. on Tuesday, Sept. 22, in the University Center Tennessee Room.

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Tuesday, Sept. 22
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17

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Click here for more information or to schedule an appointment, or call 423-425-4184.

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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.

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

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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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.

Click here for more information and to register. Application fee waivers apply to completed domestic applications submitted through Oct. 11.

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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.

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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. 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.

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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

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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, UTC Library Room 326, 1 p.m., Calendar

Campus Updates

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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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Enjoy half-price admission to the Tennessee Aquarium and 45-minute documentary films during College Days, Sept. 10-30. The discount is available to UTC students, faculty and staff, as well as their friends and family.

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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 is showcasing works from the UTC Permanent Collection of Art in “Reconsidered Recollections,” a student-curated exhibition featuring pieces that have been out of public view for years, and in some cases decades.

The exhibition, co-curated by 24 UTC students, is on display through Tuesday, Sept. 22. A closing reception will be held from 4:30-6:30 p.m. that day at ICA Chattanooga in the Fine Arts Center. Click here to learn more.

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Read how three students found their unexpected path into tech in The Unexpected Road to a Master’s in Computer Science and explore what your UTC education benefit could make possible.

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A new DASH TDX Training Hub is now available, providing a centralized resource designed to support the campus community.

The Training Hub brings together knowledge and expertise from multiple departments to create a single location for training and support resources. Whether you’re new to DASH or looking for guidance on specific processes, the hub provides easy access to:

Step-by-step instructions
Job aids and reference guides
Helpful links and resources
Frequently used documentation

The Training Hub will continue to evolve as new information, enhancements and training materials become available. Faculty and staff are encouraged to bookmark the site, refer to it whenever assistance is needed and share it with colleagues across campus. Feedback is also welcome as the Training Hub continues to grow and improve.

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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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Take action today:

Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
- 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.

Click here for more information.

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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

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UTC Newsroom

On Friday, Sept. 11, UTC hosted 9/11: A Day of Remembrance in the University Center Auditorium to honor those killed on the 25th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks. The program recognized the courage, service and sacrifice of military members, first responders and their families over the past 25 years.

Andrew Smith, a U.S. Army veteran who served with the 82nd Airborne Division and co-founder of the Honoring the Sacrifice Foundation, delivered the keynote address.

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Riley Rutherford (left) and Kate Rutherford

Originally from the two-stoplight town of Erin, Tennessee, twin sisters and UTC students Kate and Riley Rutherford spent the summer in Washington, D.C. Both juniors and Brock Scholars in the UTC Honors College, they followed different paths to the same city.

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Dr. Karen Babine

In 2014, Dr. Karen Babine packed up her tiny camper, loaded her two cats in the car and left Minneapolis for Nova Scotia. More than a decade later, that trip inspired “The Allure of Elsewhere: A Memoir of Going Solo,” published by Milkweed Editions in 2025.

WUTC

Benny Green

On WUTC’s “Scenic Roots,” Ray Bassett spoke with acclaimed jazz pianist Benny Green and WUTC host Ken Dryden ahead of Green’s benefit concert for WUTC at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall at the UTC Fine Arts Center. The concert is made possible through a gift from Ken and Nancy Dryden, with all proceeds benefiting WUTC.

IN Memoriam

William Wright “Bill” Prince, a longtime member of the UTC Library community, died Aug. 28. Prince retired from UTC in 2009 after 27 years as a reference and instruction librarian at Lupton Library. During his career, he earned the rank of professor and received the Lupton Library Dean’s Award and University of Tennessee Service Award. He was remembered for his dedication to students, faculty and colleagues. A full obituary is available here.

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September 8-14, 2026

Updates and news for the week of September 8-14, 2026

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

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

Highlights

CELEBRATE FOUNDER’S WEEK

Join the UTC community as we celebrate Founder’s Week, Sept. 14-20, honoring 140 years since the University’s founding in 1886. The week will feature celebrations, traditions, service opportunities and events for students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Chattanooga community.

On Tuesday, Sept. 15, Chancellor Lori Bruce will deliver the annual State of the University Address at 2 p.m. in the University Center Auditorium, followed by UTC’s 140th Birthday Party from 3-5 p.m. on Terrell Owens Way and Vine Street with free food truck vouchers, birthday cake, music, games, giveaways and more.

Click here to view the full Founder’s Week schedule.

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UTC community invited to 9/11: A Day of Remembrance

UTC will host 9/11: A Day of Remembrance at noon on Friday, Sept. 11, in the University Center Auditorium. The program will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks by honoring those who lost their lives and recognizing the service and sacrifice of military members, first responders and their families. The event is free and open to the campus and Chattanooga communities. Click here for more information and to RSVP.

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SKIP THE FEE: FREE APP WEEK

Are you or someone you know considering applying to UTC?

Applying to college can add up quickly, but UTC is offering prospective students a chance to save money during Free Application Week, taking place Sept. 14-18.

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SUBMIT EVENTS FOR 2026 HOMECOMING WEEK: MOCS2K

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)

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Student Access Pass Now Available

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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ADD YOUR MOCS ID TO YOUR PHONE

Every student needs a Mocs ID. To add your ID to your phone:

Download the GET Mobile app.
Sign in using your UTC ID and password.
Submit a photo by selecting Settings > Update Photo.
Once your photo is approved by Mocs Card Services, select “Add to Apple Wallet” or “Add to Phone.” Your Mocs ID will not be active until this step is completed.
Allow up to one hour for activation.

Purchased a new phone over the summer? Contact Mocs Card Services before setting up your ID. Your account must be reset to ensure a successful setup on your new device. Contact MocsCard@utc.edu or call 423-425-2218 for assistance.

Outstanding People of UTC

Guerry Professors (from left) Murat Barisik, Jejal-Reddy Bathi and Kristen Jennings Black

For more than 60 years, UTC has awarded Guerry Professorships to tenured faculty members who have distinguished themselves nationally through teaching, research, scholarship and other significant contributions to their fields. The professorships recognize sustained achievement and provide support for faculty members to continue and expand their work.

The 2026-27 Guerry Professors are:

Dr. Murat Barisik, associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering
Dr. Jejal-Reddy Bathi, associate professor in the Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering
Dr. Kristen Jennings Black, associate professor in the Department of Psychology

Each Guerry Professor holds the professorship for five years and receives a $10,000 annual stipend to support the continuation and expansion of their work.

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Eight UTC Doctor of Physical Therapy alumni from the Classes of 2020 through 2024 recently talked about their newly earned board certifications, adding to careers already taking shape in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and clinics across the country.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

The Times Free Press, NewsChannel 9, News 12 Now, and Local 3 News highlighted UTC’s partnership with CARTA on Chattanooga’s new autonomous shuttle initiative, including Chancellor Lori Bruce’s remarks about the University’s role in workforce development and the project’s live-learning lab.
Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Mina Sartipi was interviewed by the Times Free Press about UTC landing a $3 million federal grant to turn research into real-world uses.
The MobileMOC team was featured by the Times Free Press as part of the TFP’s Champions of Healthcare 2026 series.
University Health Services infectious disease nurse practitioner Jordan Jacobs spoke to Healthbeat about UTC’s measles preparedness.
Associate Professor of Political Science Jeremy Strickler talked to Jed & JR Mornings about midterm elections.
Professor David Aborn in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss birds.
UC Foundation Professor Sean Richards in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science talked to Jed & JR Mornings about low lake levels.
Assistant Professor of History Mark Johnson spoke to EatingWell about early Labor Day barbecue picnics.
Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall was interviewed by News 12 Now about Volkswagen layoffs.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar joined RevDem for a podcast about political upheavals and the war in Iran.

Mark Your Calendar

MSDA Information Sessions

Today (Sept. 8): Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Wednesday, Sept. 30: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 6: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MSM Information Sessions

Wednesday, Sept. 9: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Sept. 22: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 28: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MAcc Information Sessions

Thursday, Sept. 10: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Sept. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 8: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 27: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MBA Information Sessions

Friday, Sept. 11: Noon: Register Here
Thursday, Sept. 17: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 7: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 30: Noon: Register Here

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

Friday, Sept. 18: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 14: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

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The Center for Wellbeing is recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month with events and training opportunities throughout September.

Wednesday, Sept. 9: Hope Lives at UTC will be held from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Chamberlain Field. The event is open to students, faculty and staff and will feature on- and off-campus mental health resources, therapy dogs, walking tacos, games and activities.
Tuesday, Sept. 15: Reaching Those at Risk will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Derthick Hall. The event includes networking, light refreshments and a panel discussion on supporting high-risk communities. It is open to students, faculty and staff.
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.

* * * * *

The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will host several events throughout September for students, faculty, staff and the community.

Wednesday, Sept. 9: UTC alum Hannes de Wet will share the story behind building and selling Chattanooga-based TreeWorx during the Founder’s Table Lunch and Learn, at noon in the Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Thursday, Sept. 10: The Probasco Chair will host Kenneth G. Elzinga for “1776 and Socialism,” at 6 p.m. in Fletcher Hall Room 201.
Thursday, Sept. 17: Shop student-made products at the Mocs Marketplace pop-up, from noon-4 p.m. on Oak Street in front of Founders Hall. Students interested in becoming vendors must apply by Thursday, Sept. 10.
Wednesday, Sept. 23: Students are invited to pitch business or product ideas and receive feedback during the Changemaker Challenge—no business plan or prototype required—at 4 p.m. in the Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

* * * * *

Wednesday, Sept. 9
Tuesday, Sept. 22
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17

* * * * *

The UTC Graduate School is offering several professional development opportunities this fall:

Thursday, Sept. 10: Research 101 – Tips, Tricks & Tools for Grad Students will be held from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in UTC Library Room 205. Learn advanced search strategies, how to find credible sources, citation tools and free library resources. Free snacks and giveaways will be provided.
Wednesday, Oct. 7: Accessibility in Action – A Practical Toolkit will be offered virtually at noon. Learn foundational accessibility skills that can be applied across a variety of professional settings.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The 3MT Thesis Pitch Competition begins at 10 a.m. in the University Center Auditorium. Graduate and undergraduate students will present their research in three-minute presentations while competing for prizes. The event is open to all, and free giveaways will be available. Student registration closes Sunday, Sept. 20. Click here for more information.

* * * * *

UTC students from all majors are invited to participate in the Chancellor’s Tartan Challenge, a collaborative design competition to create a tartan inspired by UTC’s history, people and future. Participants will work in teams through a series of hands-on workshops to research, design and pitch original tartan concepts. No textile or design experience is required.

The challenge begins with a launch and mixer on Friday, Sept. 11, followed by a studio work day on Friday, Sept. 25, and a final pitch day on Friday, Oct. 2. Meetings will take place from 12:30-2:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center Lobby. Lunch will be provided at the kickoff event, and each member of the winning team will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

* * * * *

Celebrate Recovery Month this September with Mocs Recovery by attending a community event, participating in a training or showing your support online.

Monday, Sept. 14: Mocs Recovery Open House, noon-2 p.m., featuring free hot coffee.
Wednesday, Sept. 16: Game Night, 5:15-8 p.m., at the Mocs Recovery Lounge.
Monday, Sept. 28: Recovery Allyship Training for faculty and staff, 12:15-1:15 p.m. Register through K@TE.

Follow @MocsRecovery on Instagram and share its posts throughout Recovery Month. Click here for more information about Mocs Recovery.

* * * * *

The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science will host 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. 14: Dr. Azad Hossain, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Sept. 21: Dr. Yingfeng Wang, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, UTC
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

* * * * *

Yuval Levin

Faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to the 2026 Dr. Richard Gruetzemacher Constitution Day Lecture featuring political thinker and author Yuval Levin.

The lecture begins at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 15, in the University Center Auditorium. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Click here to register. For more information, contact Dr. Josh Ammons.

* * * * *

Discover everything the UTC Library has to offer at the Library Open House from 1-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16, on the first floor of the UTC Library.

Learn about the Library’s resources and support services while enjoying free snacks, swag and activities. Attendees can also enter a giveaway for a chance to win a bag of school supplies.

* * * * *

Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.

Wednesday, Sept. 16: The Office for URaCE Fall Faculty and Staff Open House will be held from 1-3 p.m. in UTC Library Room 435. Stop by to meet the URaCE team, learn about programs and initiatives, enjoy refreshments and pick up free swag. RSVP here.
Sunday, Sept. 20: Registration closes for the Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions, open to graduate and undergraduate students. The Graduate School and URaCE will host the competition on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the University Center. Click here to learn more and register.

* * * * *

Jazz pianist Benny Green opens the UTC LIVE! season in a benefit concert for WUTC-FM 88.1.

UTC LIVE! will move most of its 2026-27 performances to Cadek Hall, giving the series a smaller setting that better fits the artists and programs it presents.

* * * * *

Explore a career in healthcare at the Medical Programs Open House from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, on the first floor of the James R. Mapp Building. Learn about training opportunities in Certified Nursing Assistant, Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding, Phlebotomy Technician and Pharmacy Technician through hands-on demonstrations and conversations with instructors, staff, employers and community partners. Representatives from the Center for Professional Education and the American Job Center will also be available to discuss potential funding opportunities. Click here to RSVP.

* * * * *

Click here for more information or to schedule an appointment, or call 423-425-4184.

* * * * *

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.

Click here for more information and to register. Application fee waivers apply to completed domestic applications submitted through Oct. 11.

* * * * *

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.

* * * * *

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.

* * * * *

Campus Updates

The 1886 Challenge took a big jump this week—and we’re now up to 5,438 volunteer hours.

A big part of that boost came from more than 80 UTC students and faculty who volunteered with Camp Horizon, an overnight summer camp that gives local children with physical disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the same summer camp experiences as their peers.

Founded 21 years ago by UTC Doctor of Physical Therapy alumna Dr. Lindsey Sharpe, Camp Horizon continues to have strong UTC connections. Approximately 80 DPT, OTD and nursing students served as counselors this year, working in interdisciplinary teams to help campers participate independently in activities such as canoeing, swimming, archery, crafts, fishing, low ropes and a campfire talent show. DPT and OTD faculty also served on the camp planning board and volunteered at camp.

* * * * *

A seat on the Mocs Express, UTC’s shuttle system, is always free.

This fall, students returning to campus will find a streamlined Mocs Express route designed to get them around UTC more quickly and provide convenient access to available parking.

* * * * *

The Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) has several opportunities for students and faculty this fall.

Students participating in URaCE programs and instructional training will have the opportunity to earn micro-credentials as they learn about and prepare for success in research and research-adjacent activities. Program participants will earn badges and certificates to showcase research and career readiness skills. The competency-based model is built around the eight career readiness skills outlined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Read the Council for Undergraduate Research document guiding this work.
Faculty are invited to partner with URaCE by scheduling a classroom visit. URaCE staff will introduce students to undergraduate research opportunities at UTC and beyond. Click here to schedule a visit.
URaCE’s Fall Student Workshop Series returns with sessions on topics including getting started in research, finding a research mentor, applying for summer REU programs, developing your academic brand, Python and more. Click here to register for a workshop.

* * * * *

Read how three students found their unexpected path into tech in The Unexpected Road to a Master’s in Computer Science and explore what your UTC education benefit could make possible.

* * * * *

A new DASH TDX Training Hub is now available, providing a centralized resource designed to support the campus community.

Step-by-step instructions
Job aids and reference guides
Helpful links and resources
Frequently used documentation

* * * * *

Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.

* * * * *

Registration is now open for Chattanooga Connect 2026, the UTC Research Institute’s (UTCRI) third annual conference that brings together leaders from government, industry, academia and entrepreneurship to explore the future of transportation, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and connected mobility.

Hosted Sept. 14-16 in Chattanooga, Chattanooga Connect will convene national experts, researchers, policymakers and industry leaders to share how emerging technologies are moving beyond research and pilot projects into real-world deployment. The three-day event will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, networking opportunities, technology demonstrations and collaborative discussions focused on advancing practical, scalable solutions to some of today’s most pressing infrastructure and mobility challenges.

Michael Halem, principal deputy assistant secretary for research and technology at the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT), will deliver a keynote address. For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.

* * * * *

Another great Gold Fridays submission comes from Dr. Valerie Rutledge, dean of the College of Health, Education and Professional Studies. She is pictured with Learning and Leadership faculty members Dr. Jessica Taylor and Dr. David Rausch, along with Dr. Chris Smith, dean of the College of Nursing. Be sure to submit your Gold Fridays photos through this link.

* * * * *

As part of the University’s yearlong celebration of its 140th anniversary, the campus community is invited to participate in two anniversary initiatives:

1886 Challenge: Faculty, staff and students will work together to complete 18,860 hours of community service during the anniversary year.
140 Community Events for 140 Years: UTC will recognize and support 140 community-focused events led by faculty, staff and students that strengthen connections with the Chattanooga community.

Additional information about Founder’s Week events, the anniversary initiatives and ways to participate will be shared in the coming weeks.

* * * * *

Take action today:

Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
- 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.

Click here for more information.

* * * * *

Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.

* * * * *

Adobe Stock Image

The two offerings are AI Essentials with Prompting, a live online workshop scheduled for Sept. 15 and 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.

* * * * *

Love to read? The UTC Book Club invites faculty, staff and students to connect through monthly book discussions and shared reading. Building on the success of the campus group, a new community initiative—Chatty Book Club—will launch in August with the goal of bringing readers across Chattanooga together through a shared monthly book selection, discussion questions and local meetups. Follow the UTC Book Club and Chatty Book Club on Instagram for updates.

* * * * *

UTC Newsroom

Chancellor Lori Bruce speaks at a CARTA press conference.

A $25 million federal grant awarded to Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) will help bring a new generation of transportation technology to downtown Chattanooga. UTC will play a central role in research, education and workforce development.

The project will also create an autonomous vehicle command center and the Live-Learning Lab at CARTA’s Shuttle Park South, where UTC students and faculty will be able to study the technology as it operates on Chattanooga streets.

* * * * *

Randall Williams

For some students, the title “Dean of Students” may sound intimidating. Randall Williams hopes they’ll see it differently.

Less than a year into the role at UTC, Williams oversees everything from student engagement and campus organizations to Student Outreach and Support and student conduct. His goal is to help students make the most of their time at UTC and overcome any challenges that may come up along the way. Click here to read the Q&A.

* * * * *

With its distinctive Queen Anne Revival design and connections to Chattanooga’s late-19th-century growth, the structure at 551 Oak St. is unlike any other on UTC’s campus. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 as the Isbester House, it was completed in 1896 as the residence of Caleb B. Isbester (1828-1899), his wife Virginia (1833-1901), and their two children.

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

* * * * *

Officials from UTC and the Japan-America Society of Tennessee tour UTC’s Research Institute and learn about research conducted on campus.

UTC leadership recently welcomed the Japan-America Society of Tennessee to campus to highlight and strengthen relationships among Japan, the state of Tennessee and UTC.

* * * * *

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

Congressman Chuck Fleischmann has successfully secured $3 million in federal funding to advance the UTC Translational Research Program. This significant investment underscores UTC’s commitment to pioneering research and innovation that directly benefits the community and the region.
Michael Halem, principal deputy assistant secretary for research and technology at the United States Department of Transportation, will deliver a keynote address at Chattanooga Connect 2026, joining transportation, technology, government, research and industry leaders in Chattanooga Sept. 14-16.
For some UTC students, an on-campus job is more than a way to gain experience while earning a degree—it is the first step toward a career. From recreation and information technology to marketing and communications, former student employees are turning the skills, relationships and confidence they developed at the University into full-time roles after graduation.

WUTC

Shane Morrow

WUTC’s “Scenic Roots” honors the life and legacy of Shane Morrow, founder and executive director of RISE Chattanooga, with a one-hour special hosted by Ray Bassett. The program features an audio scrapbook of Morrow’s own words from past appearances on the station, celebrating the lasting impact he made through music, community and the arts.

September 1-7, 2026

Updates and news for the week of September 1-7, 2026

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

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

Highlights

Take a look at Weeks of Welcome

The first week of the UTC 2026-27 school year was a time to get connected on campus. Click here for the full Flickr gallery.

* * * * *

ADD YOUR MOCS ID TO YOUR PHONE

Every student needs a Mocs ID. To add your ID to your phone:

Download the GET Mobile app.
Sign in using your UTC ID and password.
Submit a photo by selecting Settings > Update Photo.
Once your photo is approved by Mocs Card Services, select “Add to Apple Wallet” or “Add to Phone.” Your Mocs ID will not be active until this step is completed.
Allow up to one hour for activation.

* * * * *

ACCESS YOUR OUTLOOK EMAIL

UTC is continuing the transition from Gmail to Outlook as part of the Google to Microsoft 365 project. Mailbox migrations began in March 2026 and have continued throughout the summer in weekly batches. Most current and new student accounts have now been transitioned to Outlook for email, with a small number of migrations still in progress.

Student action items:

Check MyMocsNet and your student email for notices about the status of your mailbox migration.
Review the guide for accessing your student email during and after the transition.

Frequently asked questions:

FAQ for Returning Students (Enrolled Spring & Summer 2026)
FAQ for New Students (Accepted Fall 2026)
FAQ for Faculty and Staff

If you experience issues with your email, you can:

Visit the IT Solutions Center in Maclellan Gym.
Submit a request for account assistance.
Call 423-425-4000 and press 3.

For general questions about the Google to Microsoft 365 transition project, contact the migration team.

* * * * *

Student Access Pass Now Available

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.

Outstanding People of UTC

Chancellor Lori Bruce

Jed & JR Mornings came to campus on the first day of the semester to interview various faculty, staff and students outside of the UTC Library, including:

Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Mark Wharton
Assistant Dean of the Graduate School Christina Policastro
Orientation leaders Natalie Cannon and Alice Pickel
Director of Undergraduate Admissions Brynn Munro
College of Nursing Dean Chris Smith
College of Health, Education and Professional Studies Dean Valerie Rutledge
Chancellor Lori Bruce
Assistant Provost for Student Success Delight Yokley
Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Mina Sartipi
Engineering Management and Technology Department Head Erkan Kaplanoglu and Associate Professor Gokhan Erdemir
Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall
Student Government Association President Zachary Lewis

* * * * *

Dr. Hemant Jain

At UTC, research is moving beyond the labs and classrooms to reach local communities, helping stakeholders better understand their needs and challenges. In 2024, the Journey Health Foundation Research Center was established with a donation from the Journey Health Foundation. The center focuses on the health and welfare of residents in 47 counties across Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina and Alabama.

Dr. Hemant Jain, director of the center and the MS Data Analytics Program in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, explained that the center uses data analysis to identify the root causes of issues communities may be facing.

* * * * *

Check out these Mocs in the news:

News 12 Now and Local 3 News covered UTC’s first day of the semester.
Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Elizabeth O’Brien spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about the impact of social media on mental health.
Senior Lecturer of English Stephanie Todd joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss the Meta lawsuit.
Assistant Professor of Geology Jennifer Taylor spoke to NewsChannel 9 about the glaciers that may have caused catastrophic flooding in Nepal.
UC Foundation Professor of Medical Anthropology Zibin Guo recently led adaptive tai chi sessions for wheelchair users as part of a UNESCO-International Centre on Space Technologies for Natural and Cultural Heritage (HIST) and UTC-sponsored training program in Quang Tri, Vietnam. The program concluded last week and was featured in a report on Vietnam’s regional and national television station, VTV8.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar spoke to Bloomberg News about leadership in Iran. He spoke to The Times of Israel about the U.S. and Iran conflict.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo by Laura O’Dell/GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

Saturday, Sept. 5: Football vs. Tennessee Tech, Finley Stadium, 6 p.m.

* * * * *

House Calls, an Enrollment Management and Student Affairs initiative created to help ease the transition for students experiencing challenges or having questions about life on campus, returns today (Sept. 1) from 5-8 p.m. Orientation will be held at 5 p.m. in the University Center Tennessee Room, then moves to University halls from 6-8 p.m.

* * * * *

Interested in studying abroad, have already studied abroad or just want free food and swag? Join the Center for Global Education for its biggest event of the year from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2, in the University Center Tennessee Room.

Meet study abroad alumni, program providers, campus departments and the Center for Global Education team to learn about the many opportunities available to study abroad.

* * * * *

Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.

Wednesday, Sept. 2, and Thursday, Sept. 3: The UTC Virtual Fall Student Research Conference will be held on the Symposium by ForagerOne platform. The conference will showcase research and creative works by graduate students and undergraduate students who participated in summer research programs in the United States and abroad. Contact the Office for URaCE to learn more about presenting a project.
Wednesday, Sept. 16: The Office for URaCE Fall Faculty and Staff Open House will be held from 1-3 p.m. in UTC Library Room 435. Stop by to meet the URaCE team, learn about programs and initiatives, enjoy refreshments and pick up free swag. RSVP here.
Sunday, Sept. 20: Registration closes for the Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions, open to graduate and undergraduate students. The Graduate School and URaCE will host the competition on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the University Center. Click here to learn more and register.

* * * * *

Celebrate Weeks of Welcome at the UTC Library’s Trinket Trade and Sticker Swap from 3-6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 3, on the second floor of the UTC Library.

Bring figurines, keychains, bracelets, stickers or other pocket-sized treasures to trade with fellow trinket lovers, or make your own during the event. Enjoy snacks while exploring the Library’s newly updated second floor, and visit with representatives from the Chattanooga Public Library to sign up for a library card. Click here for more information.

* * * * *

The Department of Chemistry will kick off its fall seminar series from 3-4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 4, in Grote Hall Room 411 with a presentation by UTC assistant professor Gagandeep Singh.

Singh’s seminar, “Ionic Liquids as Functional Biomaterials for Targeted Drug Delivery,” will explore how ionic liquids can be used to design functional biomaterials that improve targeted drug delivery by enhancing interactions with biological systems. Click here for more information.

* * * * *

Photo courtesy of Derek Daniel/GoMocs.com

Kickoff times and promotions have been announced for the Chattanooga Mocs’ 2026 home football schedule at Finley Stadium:

Sept. 5 vs. Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m.
- Future Fans Night (free admission for children 12 and younger)
- Annual Little Mocs Walk
- Light-up rally towel giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
Sept. 19 vs. Wofford, 6 p.m.
- White Out Game
- UTC Fall Family Weekend
- Mocs Flock Finley
- Academic Night
Oct. 10 vs. Samford, 1 p.m.
- Salute to Heroes
Oct. 31 vs. VMI, 1 p.m.
- Halloween with the Mocs
- Scrappy Kids Club Day
- Senior Day
Nov. 7 vs. Mercer, 1 p.m.
- Homecoming
- Fan Appreciation Game
- Band Day

Season tickets are on sale now through GoMocs.com.

* * * * *

MSDA Information Sessions

Tuesday, Sept. 8: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Wednesday, Sept. 30: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 6: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MSM Information Sessions

Wednesday, Sept. 9: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Sept. 22: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 28: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MAcc Information Sessions

Thursday, Sept. 10: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Sept. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 8: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 27: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MBA Information Sessions

Friday, Sept. 11: Noon: Register Here
Thursday, Sept. 17: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 7: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 30: Noon: Register Here

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

Friday, Sept. 18: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 14: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

* * * * *

Wednesday, Sept. 9
Tuesday, Sept. 22
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17

* * * * *

The UTC Graduate School is offering several professional development opportunities this fall:

Thursday, Sept. 10: Research 101 – Tips, Tricks & Tools for Grad Students will be held from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in UTC Library Room 205. Learn advanced search strategies, how to find credible sources, citation tools and free library resources. Free snacks and giveaways will be provided.
Wednesday, Oct. 7: Accessibility in Action – A Practical Toolkit will be offered virtually at noon. Learn foundational accessibility skills that can be applied across a variety of professional settings.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The 3MT Thesis Pitch Competition begins at 10 a.m. in the University Center Auditorium. Graduate and undergraduate students will present their research in three-minute presentations while competing for prizes. The event is open to all, and free giveaways will be available. Student registration closes Sunday, Sept. 20. Click here for more information.

* * * * *

Celebrate Recovery Month this September with Mocs Recovery by attending a community event, participating in a training or showing your support online.

Monday, Sept. 14: Mocs Recovery Open House, noon-2 p.m., featuring free hot coffee.
Wednesday, Sept. 16: Game Night, 5:15-8 p.m., at the Mocs Recovery Lounge.
Monday, Sept. 28: Recovery Allyship Training for faculty and staff, 12:15-1:15 p.m. Register through K@TE.

Follow @MocsRecovery on Instagram and share its posts throughout Recovery Month. Click here for more information about Mocs Recovery.

* * * * *

The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science will host 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. 14: Dr. Azad Hossain, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Sept. 21: Dr. Yingfeng Wang, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, UTC
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

* * * * *

Yuval Levin

Faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to the 2026 Dr. Richard Gruetzemacher Constitution Day Lecture featuring political thinker and author Yuval Levin.

The lecture begins at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 15, in the University Center Auditorium. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Click here to register. For more information, contact Dr. Josh Ammons.

* * * * *

Jazz pianist Benny Green opens the UTC LIVE! season in a benefit concert for WUTC-FM 88.1.

UTC LIVE! will move most of its 2026-27 performances to Cadek Hall, giving the series a smaller setting that better fits the artists and programs it presents.

* * * * *

Explore a career in healthcare at the Medical Programs Open House from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, on the first floor of the James R. Mapp Building. Learn about training opportunities in Certified Nursing Assistant, Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding, Phlebotomy Technician and Pharmacy Technician through hands-on demonstrations and conversations with instructors, staff, employers and community partners. Representatives from the Center for Professional Education and the American Job Center will also be available to discuss potential funding opportunities. Click here to RSVP.

* * * * *

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.

Click here for more information and to register. Application fee waivers apply to completed domestic applications submitted through Oct. 11.

* * * * *

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.

* * * * *

Undergraduate Admissions announced its fall 2026 recruitment event schedule. Faculty and staff are encouraged to save the dates and help spread the word to prospective students and families

- Sept. 30: Power C Tour – Nashville/Franklin
- Oct. 8: Power C Tour – Memphis
- Oct. 21: Power C Tour – Knoxville
- Oct. 28: Power C Tour – Chattanooga
- Nov. 14: Blue and Gold Preview

* * * * *

Campus Updates

The fall 2026 meal plan change request deadline is Sunday, Sept. 6. Students may now request a meal plan change by emailing MOCSCARD@UTC.EDU. Remember to include your UTC ID number and the eligible meal plan you would like for the Fall 2026 semester.

Any requests received after Sunday, Sept. 6, will not be accepted. Meal plan eligibility is based on EARNED credit hours. The University classifies undergraduate students as freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or seniors according to the number of credit hours the student has completed: freshman (0-29 semester hours), sophomore (30-59 semester hours), junior (60-89 semester hours) and senior (90 or more semester hours).

The Meal Plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

* * * * *

A seat on the Mocs Express, UTC’s shuttle system, is always free.

This fall, students returning to campus will find a streamlined Mocs Express route designed to get them around UTC more quickly and provide convenient access to available parking.

* * * * *

The Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) has several opportunities for students and faculty this fall.

Students participating in URaCE programs and instructional training will have the opportunity to earn micro-credentials as they learn about and prepare for success in research and research-adjacent activities. Program participants will earn badges and certificates to showcase research and career readiness skills. The competency-based model is built around the eight career readiness skills outlined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Read the Council for Undergraduate Research document guiding this work.
Faculty are invited to partner with URaCE by scheduling a classroom visit. URaCE staff will introduce students to undergraduate research opportunities at UTC and beyond. Click here to schedule a visit.
URaCE’s Fall Student Workshop Series returns with sessions on topics including getting started in research, finding a research mentor, applying for summer REU programs, developing your academic brand, Python and more. Click here to register for a workshop.

* * * * *

Dr. Valerie Rutledge (second from left), dean of the College of Health, Education and Professional Studies, poses with the Applied Leadership and Learning department for Gold Fridays. Remember to submit your Gold Fridays photos here.

* * * * *

Our Microsoft 365 environment will soon include a new feature to help keep your inbox free of clutter by automatically redirecting graymail to a separate “Promotions” folder. Graymail is email from legitimate senders that you may have signed up to receive but do not regularly read. Examples include emails from vendors, store promotions, newsletters and advertisements.

The new Promotions folder will automatically appear in Outlook once the feature is enabled in late August. For easy access, add the folder to your Favorites list or move it closer to the top of your folder list. For more information on this new feature and tips for managing your email, click here.

* * * * *

Read how three students found their unexpected path into tech in The Unexpected Road to a Master’s in Computer Science and explore what your UTC education benefit could make possible.

* * * * *

A new DASH TDX Training Hub is now available, providing a centralized resource designed to support the campus community.

Step-by-step instructions
Job aids and reference guides
Helpful links and resources
Frequently used documentation

* * * * *

Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.

* * * * *

For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.

* * * * *

As part of the University’s yearlong celebration of its 140th anniversary, the campus community is invited to participate in two anniversary initiatives:

1886 Challenge: Faculty, staff and students will work together to complete 18,860 hours of community service during the anniversary year.
140 Community Events for 140 Years: UTC will recognize and support 140 community-focused events led by faculty, staff and students that strengthen connections with the Chattanooga community.

Additional information about Founder’s Week events, the anniversary initiatives and ways to participate will be shared in the coming weeks.

* * * * *

Take action today:

Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
- 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.

Click here for more information.

* * * * *

Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.

* * * * *

Adobe Stock Image

* * * * *

UTC Newsroom

UTC students returned to campus for the first day of the fall 2026 semester. Campus was abuzz with smiling faces as students started this next chapter of their UTC careers. Click here for the full photo gallery.

* * * * *

Sean Randall

Before Crossroads Dining Hall chef Sean Randall arrived at UTC, he spent years cooking in some of the country’s most renowned kitchens. He brings those experiences to Crossroads Dining Hall. He believes that good food should unite people and introduce students to flavors and experiences they may not have encountered before.

* * * * *

Dr. Azad Hossain (front) poses with students Adam Williams, Itzayana Torres Martinez and Samuel Jayroe.

Every night of a two-week trip to Chile, students Adam Williams and Samuel Jayroe would look up at a sky so dark they could see the Milky Way. Along with a group of UTC students and faculty researchers, they stayed in a remote astrocamp tucked away in Chile’s countryside.

During the day, they hiked among shrubs and rocky hills as they collected environmental data that could help researchers better understand the degu—one of Chile’s most recognizable native animals.

* * * * *

Before classes officially began, more than 100 new students in the UTC Honors College explored the streets and neighborhoods of their new community as part of an annual activity called “City as Text.” The groups had to find a mode of transportation and make their way to areas of Chattanooga including St. Elmo, Coolidge Park, Alton Park, Fort Wood, Brainerd and the Bluff View Art District.

* * * * *

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

Have you ever heard of Q-Day? No, it’s not a sister series to Netflix’s Zero Day. Though, cinematically speaking, they share some subject matter. Q-Day is the name for a future point when quantum computers become powerful enough to crack some of the codes keeping our information secure. If you’re waiting for a date to mark on your calendar, don’t. No one knows when Q-Day will happen.
The Fifth Biennial John Dos Passos Society Conference was held May 20-23 on the Portuguese island of Madeira, the ancestral home of one of America’s foremost novelists of the twentieth century.

WUTC

Canadian-born singer-songwriter Ian Hall joined WUTC’s “Scenic Roots” to discuss his debut poetry collection, “Creekwater Mansions.” Raised in the coal country of southeastern Kentucky, Hall draws on his Appalachian roots in the collection, published by EastOver Press.

August 25-31, 2026

Updates and news for the week of August 25-31, 2026

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

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

Highlights

WELCOME TO WEEKS OF WELCOME

UTC welcomes students back to campus with games, swag and plenty of free food.

Running through Sept. 5, this year’s Weeks of Welcome expands UTC’s annual Welcome Week tradition with two weeks of department-hosted events across campus. Click here to read about Weeks of Welcome and for the full calendar of events.

* * * * *

ADD YOUR MOCS ID TO YOUR PHONE

Every student needs a Mocs ID. To add your ID to your phone:

Download the GET Mobile app.
Sign in using your UTC ID and password.
Submit a photo by selecting Settings > Update Photo.
Once your photo is approved by Mocs Card Services, select “Add to Apple Wallet” or “Add to Phone.” Your Mocs ID will not be active until this step is completed.
Allow up to one hour for activation.

* * * * *

ACCESS YOUR OUTLOOK EMAIL

Student action items:

Check MyMocsNet and your student email for notices about the status of your mailbox migration.
Review the guide for accessing your student email during and after the transition.

Frequently asked questions:

FAQ for Returning Students (Enrolled Spring & Summer 2026)
FAQ for New Students (Accepted Fall 2026)
FAQ for Faculty and Staff

If you experience issues with your email, you can:

Visit the IT Solutions Center in Maclellan Gym.
Submit a request for account assistance.
Call 423-425-4000 and press 3.

For general questions about the Google to Microsoft 365 transition project, contact the migration team.

* * * * *

Get your textbooks with MocsBooks

UTC has launched the MocsBooks Total Access Program for undergraduate students beginning in fall 2026. The new course material delivery program provides required materials for participating courses by the first day of class, with costs included on the university billing statement at $22 per credit hour. The program is expected to save students 35-50% compared to purchasing materials individually. Click here to learn more.

How it works:

Register for classes as usual.
Approximately one month before classes begin, students will receive an email from the bookstore partner with instructions for reviewing courses and selecting how they would like to receive materials.
The UTC Bookstore will prepare course materials and notify students when they are ready.
Physical materials can be picked up at the UTC Bookstore or shipped directly to students.
Digital materials will be available through Canvas.
Students with rental materials will receive reminders about return deadlines at the end of the semester.

Benefits include:

Lower costs on required course materials
Access to course materials by the first day of class
Digital materials delivered directly through Canvas
One streamlined process for obtaining required course materials

* * * * *

Student Access Pass Now Available

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.

* * * * *

Measles: What you need to know

Take action today:

Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
- 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.

Click here for more information.

* * * * *

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, Aug. 26. The September newsletter will be emailed to members on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

Please keep submissions to one paragraph of 200 (or fewer) words.
Images or logos to accompany the paragraph may be submitted.
Click here to see a sample of a recent PFA newsletter.

Outstanding People of UTC

Nearly 40 UTC faculty members recently participated in the third annual Chattanooga as Classroom faculty bus tour, exploring local landmarks and learning new ways to incorporate Chattanooga into their teaching. Organized by Bengt Carlson and Dr. Chris Johnson from the Walker Center for Teaching and Learning, the tour included stops at the Incline Railway, Point Park, the Walnut Street Bridge, the Ed Johnson Memorial and the Passage water steps near the Tennessee Aquarium.

UTC faculty members Dr. Amy Brock-Hon and Dr. Lori Waite joined the group to discuss how they have incorporated local places and community into their courses. Participants also met with Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly and community advocate Krue Brock during lunch to learn more about the city’s transformation and future before concluding the day with discussions about bringing place-based learning into the classroom.

* * * * *

Wanda Goins

“Miss” Wanda Goins, a longtime campus security guard at McKenzie Arena and the Mapp Building, moved to Chattanooga in 1974—four years after graduating from Dalton (Georgia) High School. At the time, she did not know just how much she would become ingrained in the community. Last week, Goins was inducted into the Bessie Smith Cultural Center Hall of Fame in recognition of her contributions to the Chattanooga community.

* * * * *

Check out these Mocs in the news:

UTC’s Operation Move In was covered by News Channel 9 and News 12 Now, and was photographed by UTC alum Seth Carpenter of the Times Free Press.
Visiting archaeology lecturer AJ Van Slyke joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss his search for pirate ships on Discovery Channel’s “Expedition Unknown.” Van Slyke, along with his student Tom Laufenberg and longtime UTC archaeology supporter Vann Cunningham, also spoke to the Times Free Press and Local 3 News about the expedition. The Local 3 News segment was picked up by numerous other NBC affiliates, including WNBC in New York City; WSMV in Nashville; WAVE in Louisville, Kentucky; WGAL in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and KWWL in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Associate Professor of English Sarah Einstein spoke to NewsChannel 9 about the Narrative Design minor, her literature and gaming class, and why it may be beneficial for 911 operators to hire gamers.
Mechatronics student Austin McDade was featured by ARC Chattanooga for a mobility chair he made for 2-year-old Amelia Aiken, who has cerebral palsy.
Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Mark Wharton and General Manager for Mocs Sports Properties Zach Huston discussed a new Mocs-branded lager with the Times Free Press.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar spoke to The Telegraph and Huffington Post Italy about the U.S. conflict with Iran.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

Friday, Aug. 28: Volleyball vs. Tennessee State, Chattanooga Classic, Maclellan Gym, 3 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 28: Volleyball vs. Valparaiso, Chattanooga Classic, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 29: Volleyball vs. UAB, Chattanooga Classic, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 30: Volleyball vs. Eastern Kentucky, Chattanooga Classic, Maclellan Gym, 1 p.m.

* * * * *

Singing Mocs is UTC’s contemporary commercial a cappella choir, specializing in pop and jazz vocal styles. They rehearse from 4:20-5:45 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is a highly select choir, but there are a few open spots for the fall semester, namely in the soprano and bass sections (though altos and tenors are encouraged to audition as well). Auditions will be held today (Aug. 25). For more information about the audition and to sign up for a time, please use this link.

* * * * *

Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.

Wednesday, Aug. 26: Meet the URaCE team and explore research opportunities on campus and beyond at the Welcome Week Social from noon-1:30 p.m. in the UTC Library Courtyard.
Thursday, Aug. 27: Join student researchers at the Welcome Week Student Research Panel from 4:30-6 p.m. in Library Room 435 to hear about their research journeys and how they have leveraged their experiences to secure additional opportunities. RSVP here.
Wednesday, Sept. 2, and Thursday, Sept. 3: The UTC Virtual Fall Student Research Conference will be held on the Symposium by ForagerOne platform. The conference will showcase research and creative works by graduate students and undergraduate students who participated in summer research programs in the United States and abroad. Contact the Office for URaCE to learn more about presenting a project.

* * * * *

Scrappy’s Market returns Wednesday, Aug. 26, offering free fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:

Wednesday, Sept. 9
Tuesday, Sept. 22
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17

* * * * *

UTC departments seeking student employees are invited to participate in the Part-Time Job Fair during Weeks of Welcome. The event will take place from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27, in the University Center Tennessee Room and provides an opportunity to connect with students looking for part-time employment opportunities on campus.

Departments interested in participating can contact Marli Wolff, assistant director of community and employer relations, for registration information.

* * * * *

Explore geology through hands-on activities, interactive demonstrations and displays at the Geology Open House from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27, on the second floor of Grote Hall. The free event is open to all ages and will feature rocks and minerals, fossils, GIS applications, stream table and landslide demonstrations, ground-penetrating radar, rock thin sections viewed through a petrographic microscope, an interactive topography table and opportunities to make your own fossils.

* * * * *

The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science will host its fall 2026 seminar series beginning Monday, Aug. 31. Seminars are held every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall, Room 229, and are open to all.

Fall 2026 speakers include:

Aug. 31: Dr. Stelios Chatzimanolis, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Sept. 14: Dr. Azad Hossain, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Sept. 21: Dr. Yingfeng Wang, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, UTC
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

* * * * *

House Calls, an Enrollment Management and Student Affairs initiative created to help ease the transition for students experiencing challenges or having questions about life on campus, returns Tuesday, Sept. 1, from 5-8 p.m. Orientation will be held at 5 p.m. in the University Center Tennessee Room, then moves to University halls from 6-8 p.m.

* * * * *

Meet study abroad alumni, program providers, campus departments and the Center for Global Education team to learn about the many opportunities available to study abroad.

* * * * *

Photo courtesy of Derek Daniel/GoMocs.com

Kickoff times and promotions have been announced for the Chattanooga Mocs’ 2026 home football schedule at Finley Stadium:

Sept. 5 vs. Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m.
- Future Fans Night (free admission for children 12 and younger)
- Annual Little Mocs Walk
- Light-up rally towel giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
Sept. 19 vs. Wofford, 6 p.m.
- White Out Game
- UTC Fall Family Weekend
- Mocs Flock Finley
- Academic Night
Oct. 10 vs. Samford, 1 p.m.
- Salute to Heroes
Oct. 31 vs. VMI, 1 p.m.
- Halloween with the Mocs
- Scrappy Kids Club Day
- Senior Day
Nov. 7 vs. Mercer, 1 p.m.
- Homecoming
- Fan Appreciation Game
- Band Day

Season tickets are on sale now through GoMocs.com.

* * * * *

MSDA Information Sessions

Tuesday, Sept. 8: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Wednesday, Sept. 30: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 6: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MSM Information Sessions

Wednesday, Sept. 9: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Sept. 22: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 28: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MAcc Information Sessions

Thursday, Sept. 10: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Sept. 29: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Thursday, Oct. 8: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Tuesday, Oct. 27: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MBA Information Sessions

Friday, Sept. 11: Noon: Register Here
Thursday, Sept. 17: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 7: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here
Friday, Oct. 30: Noon: Register Here

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

Friday, Sept. 18: Noon: Register Here
Wednesday, Oct. 14: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

* * * * *

Yuval Levin

Faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to the 2026 Dr. Richard Gruetzemacher Constitution Day Lecture featuring political thinker and author Yuval Levin.

The lecture begins at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 15, in the University Center Auditorium. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Click here to register. For more information, contact Dr. Josh Ammons.

* * * * *

Jazz pianist Benny Green opens the UTC LIVE! season in a benefit concert for WUTC-FM 88.1.

UTC LIVE! will move most of its 2026-27 performances to Cadek Hall, giving the series a smaller setting that better fits the artists and programs it presents.

* * * * *

The series will feature nationally recognized scholars whose work has shaped conversations around civic engagement and social infrastructure:

Wednesday, 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.
Tuesday, 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.

* * * * *

Undergraduate Admissions announced its fall 2026 recruitment event schedule. Faculty and staff are encouraged to save the dates and help spread the word to prospective students and families

- Sept. 30: Power C Tour – Nashville/Franklin
- Oct. 8: Power C Tour – Memphis
- Oct. 21: Power C Tour – Knoxville
- Oct. 28: Power C Tour – Chattanooga
- Nov. 14: Blue and Gold Preview

* * * * *

Campus Updates

Scrappy and more than 50 student-athletes and coaches volunteered at the Hamilton County Back to School Bash earlier this month, helping the UTC community surpass 1,600 volunteer hours for the year.

Keep submitting your volunteer hours and photos through the 1886 Challenge page. You can also view all submitted photos in the photo gallery at the bottom of the 1886 Challenge page.

* * * * *

A seat on the Mocs Express, UTC’s shuttle system, is always free.

This fall, students returning to campus will find a streamlined Mocs Express route designed to get them around UTC more quickly and provide convenient access to available parking.

* * * * *

Student Outreach and Support (SOS) and Scrappy’s Cupboard have moved to the University Center, Room 302, on the third floor. 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.

* * * * *

The Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) has several opportunities for students and faculty this fall.

Students participating in URaCE programs and instructional training will have the opportunity to earn micro-credentials as they learn about and prepare for success in research and research adjacent activities. Program participants will earn badges and certificates to showcase research and career readiness skills. The competency-based model is built around the eight career readiness skills outlined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Read the Council for Undergraduate Research document guiding this work.
Faculty are invited to partner with URaCE by scheduling a classroom visit. URaCE staff will introduce students to undergraduate research opportunities at UTC and beyond. Click here to schedule a visit.
URaCE’s Fall Student Workshop Series returns with sessions on topics including getting started in research, finding a research mentor, applying for summer REU programs, developing your academic brand, Python and more. Click here to register for a workshop.

* * * * *

The UTC Campus Orchestra is seeking violin, viola and cello players for the fall semester. Whether you’ve been playing for years or simply want to continue making music, the orchestra offers an opportunity to perform, connect with fellow musicians and keep your skills sharp. No audition is required; a skill evaluation will take place during the first class.

The orchestra meets from 2:30-4:05 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Cadek Hall, Room 200. The first rehearsal is Thursday, Aug. 27.

Complete the sign-up form to participate. For questions, contact David Metrio.

* * * * *

Read how three students found their unexpected path into tech in The Unexpected Road to a Master’s in Computer Science and explore what your UTC education benefit could make possible.

* * * * *

Gold Fridays continue to gain momentum across campus, with the Bursar’s Office showing its Mocs spirit last week. Pictured are Michael Warren, Marietta Song, Kim Williams, Kelly Griffin, Joel Nitsch, Janice Cosey, Natalee Boone, Annette Morrison and Vanasia Parks.

Gold Fridays are a new tradition inviting all UTC faculty, staff and students to wear gold and show their Mocs pride every Friday throughout the year. Be sure to submit your group photos by clicking here so they can be featured and celebrated in future Gold Friday highlights.

* * * * *

A new DASH TDX Training Hub is now available, providing a centralized resource designed to support the campus community.

Step-by-step instructions
Job aids and reference guides
Helpful links and resources
Frequently used documentation

* * * * *

The Department of Physical Therapy, Nutrition and Dietetics Program and the Center for Wellbeing have teamed up for the third interdisciplinary wellness program, the Mocs Wellness Initiative, for full-time UTC faculty and staff. The Mocs Wellness Initiative is part of a research project approved by the UTC Institutional Review Board.

Key program content includes:

Physical therapy evaluation and weekly training at the ARC
Nutrition assessment, nutrition classes and individual counseling
Health coaching
Group cooking class
Optional lab work and blood testing
Unlimited ARC membership
Participation in a UTC-approved research study

The program runs September 2026-April 2027, with weekly training on Thursdays from 3:30-5:15 p.m. It may be especially beneficial for employees managing a new health diagnosis, such as high blood pressure or pre-diabetes/diabetes, or those looking for support in building sustainable healthy habits.

The cost is $100 for employees earning less than $50,000 annually. Employees earning $50,000 or more pay the $200 ARC membership fee. Prior participants are not eligible, and space is limited.

Click here for more program information and click here to apply. For questions, contact Betsy Myers.

* * * * *

UTC will kick off a yearlong celebration of its 140th anniversary on Founder’s Day, Sept. 15, honoring the University’s history while highlighting its continued impact on Chattanooga and beyond.

As part of the celebration, the campus community is invited to participate in two anniversary initiatives:

1886 Challenge: Faculty, staff and students will work together to complete 18,860 hours of community service during the anniversary year.
140 Community Events for 140 Years: UTC will recognize and support 140 community-focused events led by faculty, staff and students that strengthen connections with the Chattanooga community.

Additional information about Founder’s Week events, the anniversary initiatives and ways to participate will be shared in the coming weeks.

* * * * *

Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights every Monday 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.

* * * * *

For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.

* * * * *

All aboard the UTC train! Did you know UTC has a custom train? This unique piece of campus history is available for campus and community events.

From parades, pep rallies, tailgates and more, the UTC train could bring the ultimate blue and gold energy to your next activity. To request the train for an event or to volunteer to become an official conductor, email Laura Snyder.

* * * * *

The Working Families Tax Cuts Act of 2025 includes significant changes to federal student aid programs for enrollment periods beginning on or after July 1, 2026. Updates include new federal loan borrowing limits for students and parents, a new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), changes to Pell Grant eligibility and revisions to FAFSA need analysis.

UTC has launched a dedicated resource page with information about the legislation and its potential impact on students. The page will be updated as additional guidance becomes available. Faculty and staff are encouraged to review the website regularly for the latest information.

* * * * *

Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.

* * * * *

Adobe Stock Image

* * * * *

The Meal Plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

* * * * *

UTC Choruses has openings for tenor and bass singers for the upcoming academic year, with scholarship opportunities available for select positions.

Openings are available in the UTC Chamber Singers and Orpheus Chorale. The Chamber Singers is an advanced, auditioned ensemble with a history of regional, national and international touring. Auditions take approximately 10 minutes and include a brief vocal selection, range check and sight-reading. Students interested in auditioning can contact Kevin Ford to schedule a time.

Students can also join Chattanooga Singers (MUS 0020) or Orpheus Chorale (MUS 0027), both of which are open to all experience levels and do not require an audition. All ensembles are offered for one credit or zero credit, allowing flexibility for students with varying course loads.

* * * * *

An Academic Meeting Professionals Conference will take place Aug. 27-28 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offering professional development and networking opportunities for meeting and event planners across the University of Tennessee System.

Designed specifically for UT employees, the conference features sessions focused on event planning, logistics, budgeting, communication, vendor management and guest experience. Attendees will hear from industry professionals, including Dollywood experts, and have the opportunity to connect with UT colleagues and a range of vendors. Click here to register.

* * * * *

UTC Newsroom

Hundreds of first-time UTC students were loudly welcomed and celebrated at McKenzie Arena. The annual Convocation brought together new freshmen, transfer students and graduate students for an energetic introduction to UTC featuring performances by the Marching Mocs, Ladies of Gold and Spirit Squad.

* * * * *

As students arrived in cars packed from top to bottom, volunteer students, staff, faculty and administrators in bright gold shirts stood ready to help move vacuum cleaners, shoe racks and everything else a residence hall room might need.

Operation Move In is an annual UTC event that helps students move to campus. The campus wide effort brings together students, faculty, staff and administrators to ease the transition and introduce new students to classmates and the people of UTC.

* * * * *

Going to college marks many firsts for college students—including seeing a healthcare provider or scheduling an appointment on their own for the first time.

Luckily, University Health Services at UTC provides medical care for UTC students and helps make the healthcare process as smooth as possible.

* * * * *

From quiet study spaces to collaborative areas with board games and computers, as well as equipment and resources for exploring all types of multimodal media, the UTC Library offers something for every kind of student.

WUTC

Bettin’ on the Mule

Northwest Georgia band Bettin’ on the Mule joins Clark Gibson for the latest episode of WUTC’s “Live in the Library.” The Rockmart-based band, known for its blend of Southern rock, classic rock and country, performs songs from its Riverfront Nights appearance in a session recorded at the Chattanooga Public Library.

August 18-24, 2026

Updates and news for the week of August 18-24, 2026

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

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

Highlights

A NEW SEMESTER TAKES FLIGHT

With the new semester beginning next week, UTC is preparing to welcome students back before classes start.

Following Operation Move In on Aug. 19 and 20, students can look forward to Convocation, a welcoming event at the McKenzie Arena on Friday, Aug. 21, that marks the beginning of their time at UTC.

Check out the First Flight Schedule for times to pick up educational resources, school supplies and swag, take minibus tours of downtown Chattanooga, and catch Scrappy’s Shuttle to Walmart for last-minute supplies. Weeks of Welcome begins with the Oak Street Roast at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23.

* * * * *

VOLUNTEERS STILL NEEDED FOR WEEKS OF WELCOME 2026

Weeks of Welcome 2026 is returning with two weeks of events designed to welcome students to campus, and faculty and staff are invited to get involved.

Faculty and staff are also needed to volunteer at two signature Weeks of Welcome events:

Oak Street Roast: 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23, at Chamberlain Field. Volunteers will help welcome more than 2,000 students as they kick off the new semester. Click here to sign up.
Welcome Tables: One-hour shifts are available on Aug. 24-25 to greet students, distribute snacks and water, and share Weeks of Welcome information. Click here to sign up.

Contact Laura Petrus with any questions about Weeks of Welcome.

* * * * *

Measles: What you need to know

Take action today:

Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
- 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.

Click here for more information.

* * * * *

Get your textbooks with MocsBooks

How it works:

Register for classes as usual.
Approximately one month before classes begin, students will receive an email from the bookstore partner with instructions for reviewing courses and selecting how they would like to receive materials.
The UTC Bookstore will prepare course materials and notify students when they are ready.
Physical materials can be picked up at the UTC Bookstore or shipped directly to students.
Digital materials will be available through Canvas.
Students with rental materials will receive reminders about return deadlines at the end of the semester.

Benefits include:

Lower costs on required course materials
Access to course materials by the first day of class
Digital materials delivered directly through Canvas
One streamlined process for obtaining required course materials

* * * * *

Go further with UTC’s Fee Waiver

Finishing a degree. Building new skills. Investing in your future. Whether you’re growing personally or preparing for your next opportunity, UTC’s Employee Fee Waiver can help you get there–covering maintenance fees and tuition for eligible employees taking courses at UTC, another UT System institution or a TN Board of Regents/Locally Governed Institution. Click here to learn more about utilizing your fee waiver benefits.

* * * * *

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.

Please keep submissions to one paragraph of 200 (or fewer) words.
Images or logos to accompany the paragraph may be submitted.
Click here to see a sample of a recent PFA newsletter.

* * * * *

STARBUCKS IS OPEN

Ty Jones works behind the Starbucks counter with Elliot Jenkins.

The UTC Starbucks has reopened following renovations. Stop by to check out the refreshed space and grab your favorite drink from a familiar face.

Since 2016, Ty Jones has worked at the campus Starbucks, remembering coffee orders and greeting customers by name. Jones sees her job as a way to befriend and uplift the campus community, especially during stressful moments. To her, the UTC Starbucks is one big family where everyone is welcome—and caffeinated, of course.

Outstanding People of UTC

Dr. Amber Roaché

Congratulations to UTC faculty and staff who received awards or submitted proposals for sponsored programs in July. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs announced that faculty and staff attracted $1,924,108 in external grant and contract awards during the month and submitted proposals for the potential to generate over $31,046,592 in external funding, if awarded.

Among those receiving awards in July was Dr. Amber Roaché (Nursing), who received $632,091 from the Health Resources and Services Administration for the project titled “Clinical-Academic Partnerships: Breaking Down Barriers to Care 2023-27.”

* * * * *

Dr. Erkan Kaplangolu (left) and Chris Stokes. Photo courtesy of UT System.

Dr. Erkan Kaplanoglu and Christopher Stokes were honored at a UT President’s Award event last week in Nashville.

Kaplanoglu, department head and professor of engineering management and technology, was recognized in the “Optimistic and Visionary” category. Stokes, assistant director for fraternity and sorority life in the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community, earned the President’s Award in the “Embrace Differences” category.

* * * * *

Dr. Matt Matthews

On July 1, Dr. Matt Matthews became UTC’s interim provost and senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, returning to a campus where he spent 20 years as a faculty member and academic leader before joining the UT System.

For many across UTC, Matthews’ return feels less like an introduction than a homecoming. His appointment brought back a familiar presence at an important time for the University, pairing institutional knowledge with a broader perspective he gained while serving as UT System associate vice president for academic affairs.

* * * * *

Charlie Mix, director of the UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science, is featured in a new Chattanooga Tree Project video highlighting the collaborative effort to expand Chattanooga’s urban tree canopy. Mix and UTC researchers use geospatial data science and artificial intelligence to help identify where new trees will have the greatest impact in addressing urban heat and tree canopy loss.

* * * * *

Dan Earl (right)

Chattanooga Mocs men’s basketball head coach Dan Earl and sophomore guard Tate Darner were featured in an all-access summer episode of SoCon Fast Break, highlighting the program’s offseason, outlook for the upcoming season and behind-the-scenes activities. The episode also includes one-on-one interviews with Earl and Darner.

* * * * *

Check out these Mocs in the news:

Mechatronics student Austin McDade joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss a mobility chair he made for 2-year-old Amelia Aiken, who has cerebral palsy.
Visiting archaeology lecturer AJ Van Slyke and students Tom Laufenberg and Faith Johnson were featured by NewsChannel 9 and Jamaica’s publication Our Today to talk about their research contributing to an episode of Discovery Channel’s “Expedition Unknown.”
Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall discussed his research on electricity affordability in Tennessee for the Times Free Press.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar spoke to CNN and The Wall Street Journal about the U.S. conflict with Iran.

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: GoMocs.com

Upcoming Mocs home athletics calendar:

Today (Aug. 18): Volleyball Blue Gold Scrimmage, Maclellan Gym, 5 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 23: Soccer vs. Austin Peay, Finley Stadium, 1 p.m.

* * * * *

Singing Mocs is UTC’s contemporary commercial a cappella choir, specializing in pop and jazz vocal styles. They rehearse from 4:20-5:45 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is a highly select choir, but there are a few open spots for the fall semester, namely in the soprano and bass sections (though altos and tenors are encouraged to audition as well). Auditions will be held on Monday, Aug. 24, and Tuesday, Aug. 25. For more information about the audition and to sign up for a time, please use this link.

* * * * *

Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.

Wednesday, Aug. 26: Meet the URaCE team and explore research opportunities on campus and beyond at the Welcome Week Social from noon-1:30 p.m. in the UTC Library Courtyard.
Thursday, Aug. 27: Join student researchers at the Welcome Week Student Research Panel from 4:30-6 p.m. in Library Room 435 to hear about their research journeys and how they have leveraged their experiences to secure additional opportunities. RSVP here.
Wednesday, Sept. 2, and Thursday, Sept. 3: The UTC Virtual Fall Student Research Conference will be held on the Symposium by ForagerOne platform. The conference will showcase research and creative works by graduate students and undergraduate students who participated in summer research programs in the United States and abroad. Contact the Office for URaCE to learn more about presenting a project.

* * * * *

Departments interested in participating can contact Marli Wolff, assistant director of community and employer relations, for registration information.

* * * * *

The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science will host its fall 2026 seminar series beginning Monday, Aug. 31. Seminars are held every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall, Room 229, and are open to all.

Fall 2026 speakers include:

Aug. 31: Dr. Stelios Chatzimanolis, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Sept. 14: Dr. Azad Hossain, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Sept. 21: Dr. Yingfeng Wang, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, UTC
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

* * * * *

House Calls, an Enrollment Management and Student Affairs initiative created to help ease the transition for students experiencing challenges or having questions about life on campus, returns Tuesday, Sept. 1, from 5-8 p.m. Orientation will be held at 5 p.m. in the University Center Tennessee Room, then moves to University halls from 6-8 p.m.

* * * * *

Photo courtesy of Derek Daniel/GoMocs.com

Kickoff times and promotions have been announced for the Chattanooga Mocs’ 2026 home football schedule at Finley Stadium:

Sept. 5 vs. Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m.
- Future Fans Night (free admission for children 12 and younger)
- Annual Little Mocs Walk
- Light-up rally towel giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
Sept. 19 vs. Wofford, 6 p.m.
- White Out Game
- UTC Fall Family Weekend
- Mocs Flock Finley
- Academic Night
Oct. 10 vs. Samford, 1 p.m.
- Salute to Heroes
Oct. 31 vs. VMI, 1 p.m.
- Halloween with the Mocs
- Scrappy Kids Club Day
- Senior Day
Nov. 7 vs. Mercer, 1 p.m.
- Homecoming
- Fan Appreciation Game
- Band Day

Season tickets are on sale now through GoMocs.com.

* * * * *

Yuval Levin

Faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to the 2026 Dr. Richard Gruetzemacher Constitution Day Lecture featuring political thinker and author Yuval Levin.

The lecture begins at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 15, in the University Center Auditorium. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Click here to register. For more information, contact Dr. Josh Ammons.

* * * * *

Jazz pianist Benny Green opens the UTC LIVE! season in a benefit concert for WUTC-FM 88.1.

UTC LIVE! will move most of its 2026-27 performances to Cadek Hall, giving the series a smaller setting that better fits the artists and programs it presents.

* * * * *

Undergraduate Admissions announced its fall 2026 recruitment event schedule. Faculty and staff are encouraged to save the dates and help spread the word to prospective students and families

- Sept. 30: Power C Tour – Nashville/Franklin
- Oct. 8: Power C Tour – Memphis
- Oct. 21: Power C Tour – Knoxville
- Oct. 28: Power C Tour – Chattanooga
- Nov. 14: Blue and Gold Preview

Welcome to UTC

The following employees joined UTC in July:

Gagandeep Singh – Assistant Professor, Chemistry
Md Masuduzzaman – Postdoctoral Researcher, Multiscale Material Modelling and Design, Mechanical Engineering
Rebecca Brantley – Curator and Director of the Institute of Contemporary Art and Faculty Associate, Art
Shawn Bingham – Dean and Professor, Honors College
David Metrio – Director of Strings and Visiting Associate Professor of Practice, Music
Sarah McKnight – Academic Coordinator, Center for Student Accessibility
Michael Lardizabal – Academic Advisor I, College of Arts and Sciences Student Success Center
Pin Hsuan Chen – Assistant Women’s Golf Coach, Women’s Golf
Harry Warner – Assistant Director of Athletic Performance, Athletics Administration
Allyson Cristine Beckman – Senior Compliance Officer, Office of Equal Opportunity and Accessibility
Emily Brianne Johnston – Senior Study Abroad Advisor, International Education
Victoria Honeycutt – Counselor, Counseling Center
Jonathan Tyler Deloach – Service Assistant I, Campus Improvements Non-Capital
Lee Williams Weldon – Vice Chancellor and Executive Director, UTC Foundation
Edwin Kurjak – Assistant Cross Country and Track Coach, Women’s Track and Cross Country
Aubrey Rachelle Frazier – Executive Director, Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community and Fraternity and Sorority Life
Kaiya Walls – Regional Admissions Counselor, Recruitment
Riley Younger – Administrative Support Specialist, Chancellor’s Office

Campus Updates

Third-year physical therapy student Nathan Krough, along with faculty and students from the Physical Therapy program, recently volunteered with SPARC during Adaptive Water Ski Day.

Those volunteer hours helped the UTC community surpass 1,500 hours for the 1886 Challenge as students return to campus this week. Keep submitting your volunteer hours and photos through the 1886 Challenge page. You can also view all submitted photos in the photo gallery at the bottom of the 1886 Challenge page.

* * * * *

The first Gold Friday was a big success, thanks in large part to the Facilities Planning and Management team, pictured above. Gold Fridays are a new tradition inviting all UTC faculty, staff and students to wear gold and show their Mocs pride every Friday throughout the year.

Be sure to submit your group photos by clicking here so they can be featured and celebrated in future Gold Friday highlights.

* * * * *

The orchestra meets from 2:30-4:05 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Cadek Hall, Room 200. The first rehearsal is Thursday, Aug. 27.

Complete the sign-up form to participate. For questions, contact David Metrio.

* * * * *

Student action items:

Check MyMocsNet and your student email for notices about the status of your mailbox migration.
Review the guide for accessing your student email during and after the transition.

Frequently asked questions:

FAQ for Returning Students (Enrolled Spring & Summer 2026)
FAQ for New Students (Accepted Fall 2026)
FAQ for Faculty and Staff

If you experience issues with your email, you can:

Visit the IT Solutions Center in Maclellan Gym.
Submit a request for account assistance.
Call 423-425-4000 and press 3.

For general questions about the Google to Microsoft 365 transition project, contact the migration team.

* * * * *

Read how three students found their unexpected path into tech in The Unexpected Road to a Master’s in Computer Science and explore what your UTC education benefit could make possible.

* * * * *

The University of Tennessee System’s Great Place to Work® Trust Index© Survey is open through Monday, Aug. 24. A random sample of employees across the UT System was selected to participate in the confidential survey, which takes about 12 minutes to complete.

Responses are reported only in aggregate and will help guide efforts to strengthen workplace culture across the UT System. Employees selected to participate should look for an email from Great Place to Work with the subject line “Great Place to Work® Trust Index© Survey.”

* * * * *

A new DASH TDX Training Hub is now available, providing a centralized resource designed to support the campus community.

Step-by-step instructions
Job aids and reference guides
Helpful links and resources
Frequently used documentation

* * * * *

Key program content includes:

Physical therapy evaluation and weekly training at the ARC
Nutrition assessment, nutrition classes and individual counseling
Health coaching
Group cooking class
Optional lab work and blood testing
Unlimited ARC membership
Participation in a UTC-approved research study

The cost is $100 for employees earning less than $50,000 annually. Employees earning $50,000 or more pay the $200 ARC membership fee. Prior participants are not eligible, and space is limited.

Click here for more program information and click here to apply. For questions, contact Betsy Myers.

* * * * *

As part of the celebration, the campus community is invited to participate in two anniversary initiatives:

1886 Challenge: Faculty, staff and students will work together to complete 18,860 hours of community service during the anniversary year.
140 Community Events for 140 Years: UTC will recognize and support 140 community-focused events led by faculty, staff and students that strengthen connections with the Chattanooga community.

Additional information about Founder’s Week events, the anniversary initiatives and ways to participate will be shared in the coming weeks.

* * * * *

Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.

* * * * *

For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.

* * * * *

All aboard the UTC train! Did you know UTC has a custom train? This unique piece of campus history is available for campus and community events.

* * * * *

Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.

* * * * *

Adobe Stock Image

* * * * *

The Meal Plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

* * * * *

UTC Choruses has openings for tenor and bass singers for the upcoming academic year, with scholarship opportunities available for select positions.

* * * * *

UTC Newsroom

More people than ever before chose to invest in UTC during fiscal year 2026, making it the largest donor year in University history. A record 7,645 donors contributed $29,347,792 to support UTC students, faculty and programs between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. The University also engaged 57,883 alumni through events, communications, volunteer opportunities and philanthropic support, reflecting continued momentum in strengthening lifelong connections with Mocs around the world.

* * * * *

Dr. Courtney Crittenden

What if the best textbook for UTC students was written specifically for them and it was free? UC Foundation Professor of Criminal Justice Courtney Crittenden created one for criminal justice students.

Crittenden, a UTC faculty member since 2015, used her professional development leave in fall 2025 to create a free textbook and a full course package for CRMJ 1100: Introduction to Criminal Justice.

* * * * *

Dr. Kristen Singletary

Dr. Kristen Singletary knows that the first path you take doesn’t always lead you to your destination. Sometimes you must reroute, even though it may not be the quickest or easiest way forward.

This is a message that Singletary—a clinical associate professor, director of the accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program and a three-time alum of the UTC—wants to instill in her students.

* * * * *

AJ Van Slyke (left)

Years of research by UTC archaeologists and students culminated in a Discovery Channel expedition to search for the lost ships of Bartholomew “Black Bart” Roberts. Archaeologist Andrew J. (AJ) Van Slyke and his students, Tom Laufenberg and Faith Johnson, along with a team of volunteers, contributed to an episode of “Expedition Unknown.”

* * * * *

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

With the fall semester about to get underway, UTC welcomed its newest faculty members during the annual New Faculty Dinner at the Hunter Museum of American Art. Hosted by Academic Affairs, the gathering brought together approximately 130 attendees, including new faculty and University leadership, for an evening of introductions and conversation.
At the UTC, one of the easiest ways into Chattanooga’s outdoor culture starts inside the Aquatic and Recreation Center (ARC). Through trips, rentals and events, UTC Outdoors helps students find their footing in a city built for climbing, paddling, hiking and exploring

WUTC

David Newbould

Canadian-born Americana singer-songwriter David Newbould joins Clark Gibson for the latest episode of WUTC’s “Live in the Library.” Now based in Nashville, Newbould performs live in the studio during the program, recorded at the Chattanooga Public Library.

August 11-17, 2026

Updates and news for the week of August 11-17, 2026

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

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

Highlights

VOLUNTEER FOR OPERATION MOVE IN AND WEEKS OF WELCOME 2026

Operation Move In (OMI) 2026 is scheduled for Aug. 19-20 in residential spaces for new students across campus.

OMI provides an opportunity for faculty, staff, students and organizations to come together and create a welcoming, supportive environment for incoming students and their families. A campuswide committee is coordinating the two-day event, with volunteer roles including unloading, moving, parking and greeting.

Those interested in volunteering can register here. For more information, contact the OMI Volunteer Committee co-chairs Erica Holmes Trujillo and Dr. Andrew McCarthy at omi@utc.edu.

Weeks of Welcome 2026 is returning with two weeks of events designed to welcome students to campus, and faculty and staff are invited to get involved.

Faculty and staff are also needed to volunteer at two signature Weeks of Welcome events:

Oak Street Roast: 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23, at Chamberlain Field. Volunteers will help welcome more than 2,000 students as they kick off the new semester. Click here to sign up.
Welcome Tables: One-hour shifts are available on Aug. 24-25 to greet students, distribute snacks and water, and share Weeks of Welcome information. Click here to sign up.

Contact Laura Petrus with any questions about Weeks of Welcome.

* * * * *

Volunteer for A Moc’s First Class

A Moc’s First Year is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to host a First Class session on Friday, Aug. 21, immediately following Convocation.

Volunteers will spend about an hour welcoming new students, leading a brief activity, sharing tips for a successful first week and helping students feel more comfortable as they begin their college experience. Click here to volunteer.

* * * * *

Measles: What you need to know

Take action today:

Check your status: Log in to the UTC Medicat Patient Portal to review your records.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
- 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.

Click here for more information.

* * * * *

Get your textbooks with MocsBooks

How it works:

Register for classes as usual.
Approximately one month before classes begin, students will receive an email from the bookstore partner with instructions for reviewing courses and selecting how they would like to receive materials.
The UTC Bookstore will prepare course materials and notify students when they are ready.
Physical materials can be picked up at the UTC Bookstore or shipped directly to students.
Digital materials will be available through Canvas.
Students with rental materials will receive reminders about return deadlines at the end of the semester.

Benefits include:

Lower costs on required course materials
Access to course materials by the first day of class
Digital materials delivered directly through Canvas
One streamlined process for obtaining required course materials

* * * * *

Join the 1886 challenge

Selia Jablonski

The UTC community has already logged more than 1,000 hours for the 1886 Challenge, and the fall semester hasn’t even started. Keep submitting your volunteer hours and photos through the 1886 Challenge page.

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 effort is intended to highlight service already taking place across the University through volunteer work, mentoring, service-learning and outreach.

Be sure to check out the photo gallery, including the image above of Selia Jablonski, a marketing major with a Spanish minor. Jablonski recently volunteered at Catoosa Kids Day, helping with event setup, distributing thousands of backpacks to families in need and connecting attendees with available community resources.

Outstanding People of UTC

2-year-old Amelia Aiken and UTC mechatronics major Austin McDade.

In early April, Kyndal Aiken sent an email to the UTC College of Engineering and Computer Science asking whether anyone might be willing to help. Her 2-year-old daughter, who has cerebral palsy, needed a mobility device that could help her move more independently. In the email, she asked whether UTC students might be willing to take on the project. Mechatronics major Austin McDade came to the family’s rescue.

The story brought the Times Free Press and NewsChannel 9 to campus, with the Times Free Press feature landing on the front page of Sunday’s newspaper. In addition, WDEF’s “What’s Right With Our School’s” filmed a segment that will run later this summer.

* * * * *

From left: Dr. Stephanie Eton, Dr. Vickie Blalock, Dr. Kyle Binkley, Dr. Faith Rose, Dr. Matthew Annessi, Dr. Ross von Glahn and Dr. Douglas Daniel.

Dr. Faith Rose received her framed certificate as the first graduate of the Siskin Hospital-University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Geriatric Physical Therapy Residency Program, a first for Siskin Hospital and another step toward preparing more specialists to serve older adults in Chattanooga and across Tennessee.

* * * * *

Check out these Mocs in the news:

Dr. Tyler Oberheim, assistant professor of counselor education, was interviewed by the Times Free Press for a front-page story about the recently launched Clinical Addiction Studies Certificate program.
Senior English Lecturer Stephanie Todd spoke with Jed & JR Mornings about the benefits of reading and its impact on lifespan.
Dr. Mark Johnson, assistant professor of history, was featured by the Chattanooga Pulse for his new book “American Bacon: The History of a Food Phenomenon.”
Assistant Professor Justin Wymer was featured by the Southern Review of Books.
Interim Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Matt Matthews spoke with Local 3 News about the new Focused Baccalaureate Degree program, which helps streamline students’ paths towards bachelor’s degrees.
College of Nursing Dean Chris Smith was highlighted by HealthScope Magazine as one of the deans shaping the next generation of nurses.
Dr. Sarah Heise, assistant professor of political science, spoke to Local 3 News about voter turnout in a midterm election year.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar spoke to the New York Times about Iran’s security forces.

Mark Your Calendar

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

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

Today (Aug. 11): Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MBA Information Sessions

Wednesday, Aug. 12: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

* * * * *

Singing Mocs is UTC’s contemporary commercial a cappella choir, specializing in pop and jazz vocal styles. They rehearse from 4:20-5:45 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is a highly select choir, but there are a few open spots for the fall semester, namely in the soprano and bass sections (though altos and tenors are encouraged to audition as well). Auditions will be held on Monday, Aug. 24, and Tuesday, Aug. 25. For more information about the audition and to sign up for a time, please use this link.

* * * * *

Departments interested in participating can contact Marli Wolff, assistant director of community and employer relations, for registration information.

* * * * *

House Calls, an Enrollment Management and Student Affairs initiative created to help ease the transition for students experiencing challenges or having questions about life on campus, returns Tuesday, Sept. 1, from 5-8 p.m. Orientation will be held at 5 p.m. in the University Center Tennessee Room, then moves to University halls from 6-8 p.m.

* * * * *

Photo courtesy of Derek Daniel/GoMocs.com

Kickoff times and promotions have been announced for the Chattanooga Mocs’ 2026 home football schedule at Finley Stadium:

Sept. 5 vs. Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m.
- Future Fans Night (free admission for children 12 and younger)
- Annual Little Mocs Walk
- Light-up rally towel giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
Sept. 19 vs. Wofford, 6 p.m.
- White Out Game
- UTC Fall Family Weekend
- Mocs Flock Finley
- Academic Night
Oct. 10 vs. Samford, 1 p.m.
- Salute to Heroes
Oct. 31 vs. VMI, 1 p.m.
- Halloween with the Mocs
- Scrappy Kids Club Day
- Senior Day
Nov. 7 vs. Mercer, 1 p.m.
- Homecoming
- Fan Appreciation Game
- Band Day

Season tickets are on sale now through GoMocs.com.

* * * * *

Jazz pianist Benny Green opens the UTC LIVE! season in a benefit concert for WUTC-FM 88.1.

UTC LIVE! will move most of its 2026-27 performances to Cadek Hall, giving the series a smaller setting that better fits the artists and programs it presents.

* * * * *

Undergraduate Admissions announced its fall 2026 recruitment event schedule. Faculty and staff are encouraged to save the dates and help spread the word to prospective students and families

- Sept. 30: Power C Tour – Nashville/Franklin
- Oct. 8: Power C Tour – Memphis
- Oct. 21: Power C Tour – Knoxville
- Oct. 28: Power C Tour – Chattanooga
- Nov. 14: Blue and Gold Preview

Campus Updates

Student action items:

Check MyMocsNet and your student email for notices about the status of your mailbox migration.
Review the guide for accessing your student email during and after the transition.

Frequently asked questions:

FAQ for Returning Students (Enrolled Spring & Summer 2026)
FAQ for New Students (Accepted Fall 2026)
FAQ for Faculty and Staff

If you experience issues with your email, you can:

Visit the IT Solutions Center in Maclellan Gym.
Submit a request for account assistance.
Call 423-425-4000 and press 3.

For general questions about the Google to Microsoft 365 transition project, contact the migration team.

* * * * *

Nominations are now open for the University of Tennessee’s 2027 Leadership Institute. The weeklong program will be held March 7–12, 2027, and focuses on decision-making, ethical leadership, team engagement and cross-system collaboration. Employees across the UT System are eligible; nominees should be at the assistant director’s level or above (or have comparable responsibilities) and demonstrate strong performance, growth potential and a commitment to developing others. Nomination materials are available on the Office of Employee Engagement and Organizational Development (EEOD) page of the UT System’s Central Hub and should be submitted directly to EEOD via email no later than Aug. 28. Questions about Leadership Institute can be submitted to EEOD Executive Director Kelsey Fleming.

* * * * *

A new DASH TDX Training Hub is now available, providing a centralized resource designed to support the campus community.

Step-by-step instructions
Job aids and reference guides
Helpful links and resources
Frequently used documentation

* * * * *

The Department of Physical Therapy, Nutrition and Dietetics Program and the Center for Wellbeing have teamed up for the third interdisciplinary wellness program, the Mocs Wellness Initiative, for full-time UTC faculty and staff. The Mocs Wellness Initiative is part of a research project approved by the UTC Institutional Review Board.

Key program content includes:

Physical therapy evaluation and weekly training at the ARC
Nutrition assessment, nutrition classes and individual counseling
Health coaching
Group cooking class
Optional lab work and blood testing
Unlimited ARC membership
Participation in a UTC-approved research study

The cost is $100 for employees earning less than $50,000 annually. Employees earning $50,000 or more pay the $200 ARC membership fee. Prior participants are not eligible, and space is limited.

Click here for more program information and click here to apply. For questions, contact Betsy Myers.

* * * * *

As part of the celebration, the campus community is invited to participate in two anniversary initiatives:

1886 Challenge: Faculty, staff and students will work together to complete 18,860 hours of community service during the anniversary year.
140 Community Events for 140 Years: UTC will recognize and support 140 community-focused events led by faculty, staff and students that strengthen connections with the Chattanooga community.

Additional information about Founder’s Week events, the anniversary initiatives and ways to participate will be shared in the coming weeks.

* * * * *

Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.

* * * * *

For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.

* * * * *

All aboard the UTC train! Did you know UTC has a custom train? This unique piece of campus history is available for campus and community events.

* * * * *

Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.

* * * * *

Adobe Stock Image

* * * * *

The Meal Plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

* * * * *

UTC Choruses has openings for tenor and bass singers for the upcoming academic year, with scholarship opportunities available for select positions.

* * * * *

UTC Newsroom

UTC DNP students Nicole Ward, left, and Trinity Brown work during the Chattanooga Wellness Expo in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.

Despite the rain, hundreds of Chattanooga community members came to McKenzie Arena and the Wolford Family Athletic Center recently for the Chattanooga Wellness Expo. Among them were 20 faculty members and students from UTC’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program.

* * * * *

Clifton Hills Elementary teacher and UTC alum Meghan McDougall.

The UTC School of Education honored 41 pre-K-12 teachers during its third annual Mentor Teacher Awards Banquet, recognizing the educators who guide UTC teacher candidates through classroom residencies.

* * * * *

Dr. Ashleigh Pipes (holding UTC flag).

This spring, Dr. Ashleigh Pipes traveled to Shantou, China, where researchers from around the world came together to discuss the question, “How do people learn language?”

* * * * *

Dr. Yvette Hairston, Dr. Delight Yokley and other UTC community members.

Students arriving at Tommie F. Brown Academy for the first day of school received a blue-and-gold welcome from UTC. From 7:30 to 8 a.m., about two dozen UTC faculty, staff and students helped greet students and their parents as they returned for the new school year. The group waved blue-and-gold pom-poms, cheered and held signs, including one reading, “UTC Welcomes You.”

* * * * *

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

As communities across Tennessee and the country continue to face the effects of substance use disorders, UTC has launched its Clinical Addiction Studies Certificate, a fully online program designed to prepare more professionals to work with people affected by addiction. UTC’s Clinical Addiction Studies Certificate aligns with Tennessee educational requirements for Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors, or LADACs.
More often than not, when students construct their class schedules for the semester, they find themselves with decent-sized time gaps from the end of one class to the start of the next. UTC has many places to hang out. From study areas and campus restaurants to recording studios and a game of spikeball, UTC has a wide variety of sites and activities to check out.

WUTC

Craig Fuller joined WUTC’s “Scenic Roots” to discuss becoming the new CEO of the Times Free Press.

August 4-10, 2026

Updates and news for the week of August 4-10, 2026

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

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

Highlights

Welcome back Brown Academy

Faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to welcome Brown Academy students back to school on Wednesday, Aug. 5. Help create an exciting first day of school by cheering on students and families as they arrive and welcoming them back for a new school year.

Wear your best blue and gold, bring a pom pom and meet at 7:45 a.m. on the corner of E. 8th Street and Campus Drive. Click here to sign up.

* * * * *

JOIN THE 1886 CHALLENGE

Hours continue to add up for UTC’s 1886 Challenge as Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Katelyn Hancock and criminal justice students Kolbie Bobo, Jacob Brown, Kaitlin Brown, Reina Castaneda and Larissa Ogle volunteered with Camp HOPE America on July 26-31. Hosted by Partnership for Families, Children and Adults at YMCA Camp Ocoee, the trauma-informed overnight camp served youth connected to the HOPE Initiative, with UTC volunteers completing training before supporting campers throughout the week.

Click here to add your volunteer hours for the 1886 Challenge.

* * * * *

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS AND VOLUNTEER FOR WEEKS OF WELCOME 2026

Weeks of Welcome 2026 is returning with two weeks of events designed to welcome students to campus, and faculty and staff are invited to get involved.

Departments hosting events or programs between Aug. 23 and Sept. 5 are encouraged to submit them to the official Weeks of Welcome calendar by Friday, Aug. 7.

Faculty and staff are also needed to volunteer at two signature welcome events:

Oak Street Roast: 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23, at Chamberlain Field. Volunteers will help welcome more than 2,000 students as they kick off the new semester. Click here to sign up.
Welcome Tables: One-hour shifts are available on Aug. 24-25 to greet students, distribute snacks and water, and share Weeks of Welcome information. Click here to sign up.

Click here to submit an event or learn more. Contact Laura Petrus with any questions.

* * * * *

Volunteer for Operation Move In

Dr. Andrew McCarthy helps unload belongings from a pickup truck into a move-in bin during 2025’s Operation Move In.

Operation Move In (OMI) 2026 is scheduled for Aug. 19-20 in residential spaces for new students across campus.

Those interested in volunteering can register here. For more information, contact the OMI Volunteer Committee co-chairs Erica Holmes Trujillo and Dr. Andrew McCarthy at omi@utc.edu.

Outstanding People of UTC

Charlie Mix

Charlie Mix, director of the UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science, earned international recognition as a finalist in the Place Perspective category of the 2026 Esri User Conference Map Gallery for his map, “Blueways of Tennessee.” The annual competition recognizes outstanding cartography and geospatial storytelling from around the world.

* * * * *

Kate Powers (right)

For Kate Powers, becoming a nurse wasn’t a matter of if—it was a matter of when. Now a student in the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program in UTC’s College of Nursing, Powers recently received a March of Dimes Undergraduate Nursing Scholarship.

* * * * *

Check out these Mocs in the news:

Chancellor Lori Bruce spoke to Local 3 News about the legacy of Dr. Fred Obear, chancellor of UTC from 1981 to 1997.
Great job by our student-athletes for volunteering at Saturday’s Hamilton County School’s Back to School Bash at the Tennessee Riverpark. Freshman soccer player Aaliyah Story made the front page of Sunday’s Times Free Press as part of the activities.
Professor and Walter M. Cline Chair of Excellence in Physical Therapy David Levine was featured by City Lifestyle for his research in canine rehabilitation.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar was interviewed by The Hill and Radio Free Europe about the U.S./Iran conflict.

Mark Your Calendar

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

MSDA Information Sessions

Today (Aug. 4): Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MSM Information Sessions

Wednesday, Aug. 5: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MAcc Information Sessions

Thursday, Aug. 6: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions

Tuesday, Aug. 11: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

MBA Information Sessions

Wednesday, Aug. 12: Noon: Register Here … 5 p.m.: Register Here

* * * * *

The next Staff Senate meeting will be held from 2-4 p.m. today (Aug. 4) in the University Center Auditorium and via Zoom. All staff are encouraged to attend and stay informed about initiatives and updates affecting the UTC community.

* * * * *

AI is transforming the workplace, but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. Join instructor and CEO Tripp Stanford for a free, live webinar at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 5, to learn where AI adoption stands today, debunk common myths and walk away with a practical framework you can apply immediately.

The webinar also includes a preview of AI Essentials with Prompting, a two-day workshop designed to help participants build lasting AI skills. Whether you’re new to AI or looking to use it more effectively, this session will help you take the next step with confidence. Click here to RSVP.

* * * * *

Singing Mocs is UTC’s contemporary commercial a cappella choir, specializing in pop and jazz vocal styles. They rehearse from 4:20-5:45 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is a highly select choir, but there are a few open spots for the fall semester, namely in the soprano and bass sections (though altos and tenors are encouraged to audition as well). Auditions will be held on Monday, Aug. 24, and Tuesday, Aug. 25. For more information about the audition and to sign up for a time, please use this link.

* * * * *

Departments interested in participating can contact Marli Wolff, assistant director of community and employer relations, for registration information.

* * * * *

Photo courtesy of Derek Daniel/GoMocs.com

Kickoff times and promotions have been announced for the Chattanooga Mocs’ 2026 home football schedule at Finley Stadium:

Sept. 5 vs. Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m.
- Future Fans Night (free admission for children 12 and younger)
- Annual Little Mocs Walk
- Light-up rally towel giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
Sept. 19 vs. Wofford, 6 p.m.
- White Out Game
- UTC Fall Family Weekend
- Mocs Flock Finley
- Academic Night
Oct. 10 vs. Samford, 1 p.m.
- Salute to Heroes
Oct. 31 vs. VMI, 1 p.m.
- Halloween with the Mocs
- Scrappy Kids Club Day
- Senior Day
Nov. 7 vs. Mercer, 1 p.m.
- Homecoming
- Fan Appreciation Game
- Band Day

Season tickets are on sale now through GoMocs.com.

* * * * *

Undergraduate Admissions announced its fall 2026 recruitment event schedule. Faculty and staff are encouraged to save the dates and help spread the word to prospective students and families.

Sept. 30: Power C Tour – Nashville/Franklin
Oct. 8: Power C Tour – Memphis
Oct. 21: Power C Tour – Knoxville
Oct. 28: Power C Tour – Chattanooga
Nov. 14: Blue and Gold Preview

Campus Updates

Applications are now open for the next round of UT Wellness Mini-Grants, which will award approximately 10 grants of $5,000 to support faculty- and staff-led wellness projects.

To be considered, projects must:

Align with one or more of the eight dimensions of wellness
Include a clear and measurable assessment plan for evaluating project success

The one-year grants are designed to support evidence-based approaches to wellness, encourage collaboration across the UT System and foster a culture of innovation around wellness.

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, through InfoReady. Click here to apply.

* * * * *

A new DASH TDX Training Hub is now available, providing a centralized resource designed to support the campus community.

Step-by-step instructions
Job aids and reference guides
Helpful links and resources
Frequently used documentation

* * * * *

Key program content includes:

Physical therapy evaluation and weekly training at the ARC
Nutrition assessment, nutrition classes and individual counseling
Health coaching
Group cooking class
Optional lab work and blood testing
Unlimited ARC membership
Participation in a UTC-approved research study

The cost is $100 for employees earning less than $50,000 annually. Employees earning $50,000 or more pay the $200 ARC membership fee. Prior participants are not eligible, and space is limited.

Click here for more program information and click here to apply. For questions, contact Betsy Myers.

* * * * *

As part of the celebration, the campus community is invited to participate in two anniversary initiatives:

1886 Challenge: Faculty, staff and students will work together to complete 18,860 hours of community service during the anniversary year.
140 Community Events for 140 Years: UTC will recognize and support 140 community-focused events led by faculty, staff and students that strengthen connections with the Chattanooga community.

Additional information about Founder’s Week events, the anniversary initiatives and ways to participate will be shared in the coming weeks.

* * * * *

Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.

* * * * *

For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.

* * * * *

All aboard the UTC train! Did you know UTC has a custom train? This unique piece of campus history is available for campus and community events.

* * * * *

How it works:

Register for classes as usual.
Approximately one month before classes begin, students will receive an email from the bookstore partner with instructions for reviewing courses and selecting how they would like to receive materials.
The UTC Bookstore will prepare course materials and notify students when they are ready.
Physical materials can be picked up at the UTC Bookstore or shipped directly to students.
Digital materials will be available through Canvas.
Students with rental materials will receive reminders about return deadlines at the end of the semester.

Benefits include:

Lower costs on required course materials
Access to course materials by the first day of class
Digital materials delivered directly through Canvas
One streamlined process for obtaining required course materials

* * * * *

Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.

* * * * *

Adobe Stock Image

* * * * *

A Moc’s First Year is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to host a First Class session on Friday, Aug. 21, immediately following Convocation.

* * * * *

UTC Choruses has openings for tenor and bass singers for the upcoming academic year, with scholarship opportunities available for select positions.

* * * * *

UTC Newsroom

Operation Move In at UTC kicks off Aug. 19-20 and marks the beginning of Fall Opening. Whether you’re moving in or just helping unload, a few smart steps can make the day go more smoothly.

* * * * *

Karent Gresbrink (left), Kelly Jourdan, Chyna Germany and Dr. Kate McKinney pose at Machu Picchu.

In June, a woman in rural Peru walked five hours to receive a pap smear at a health clinic. Those treating the woman—and others like her—included UTC Doctor of Nursing Practice students Karent Gresbrink, Chyna Germany and Kelly Jourdan, alongside faculty member Dr. Kate McKinney, the Kay K. Chitty assistant professor in UTC’s College of Nursing.

* * * * *

Steam Logistics Domestic Division President Jeff Wood (left), UTC student Lance Nelson, Steam Logistics Executive Vice President of Sales Travis Cook and UTC student Mason McKinnon meet on the company’s rooftop patio during the students’ summer internships.

When UTC student Lance Nelson first drove into Chattanooga from his hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee, he made note of the color-blocked contemporary office building that welcomed him after exiting the interstate.

Now in his senior year, Nelson and fellow UTC student Mason McKinnon are spending their summer inside that same building as interns at Steam Logistics.

* * * * *

Students in Mark Johnson’s class learn how to make their own bacon.

Earlier this year, UTC assistant professor of history Mark Johnson sat down for an interview about his latest book, “American Bacon.” The story originally appeared in the summer 2026 issue of Our Tennessee, a systemwide magazine for alumni of all University of Tennessee campuses and institutes.

WUTC

The Prickly Pair

Singer-songwriters Mason Summit and Irene Greene, who perform angsty Americana and country covers as The Prickly Pair, join Clark Gibson for the latest episode of WUTC’s “Live in the Library.” The performance was recorded at the downtown Chattanooga Public Library.

July 28-August 3, 2026

Updates and news for the week of July 28-August 3, 2026

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

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

IN Memoriam

Dr. Frederick Obear

The UTC community is mourning the passing of Chancellor Emeritus Dr. Frederick Obear, whose visionary leadership helped transform the University during his tenure as chancellor from 1981-97 and interim chancellor from 2004-05. Remembered for his commitment to students, academic excellence and the Chattanooga community, Dr. Obear leaves a lasting legacy that continues to shape UTC. The campus will celebrate his life and legacy during a memorial reception on Friday, Oct. 9. Click here for a link to our story on Dr. Obear.

* * * * *

Highlights

2026 top University award recipients named

UTC has announced the recipients of its highest annual honors for 2026, recognizing three individuals whose leadership, service and professional achievement have made a lasting impact on the University and beyond.

Gary W. Rollins will receive the Distinguished Alumni Award, the University’s highest recognition presented to an alumnus. Movita Steiner has been selected for the Outstanding Service Award, which recognizes extraordinary service to UTC. Dr. Alexis Rollins Bennett will receive the GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) Excellence Award, honoring exceptional achievement by a recent graduate.

* * * * *

UT System President’s Awardees Recognized

Christopher Stokes, top, and Dr. Erkan Kaplanogu are recipients of 2026 UT System President’s Awards.

Dr. Erkan Kaplanoglu and Christopher Stokes have received 2026 UT System President’s Awards, the highest honor a faculty or staff member can receive from the UT System.

* * * * *

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS AND VOLUNTEER FOR WEEKS OF WELCOME 2026

Weeks of Welcome 2026 is returning with two weeks of events designed to welcome students to campus, and faculty and staff are invited to get involved.

Departments hosting events or programs between Aug. 23 and Sept. 5 are encouraged to submit them to the official Weeks of Welcome calendar by Friday, Aug. 7.

Faculty and staff are also needed to volunteer at two signature welcome events:

Oak Street Roast: 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23, at Chamberlain Field. Volunteers will help welcome more than 2,000 students as they kick off the new semester. Click here to sign up.
Welcome Tables: One-hour shifts are available on Monday, Aug. 24, and Tuesday, Aug. 25, to greet students, distribute snacks and water, and share Weeks of Welcome information. Click here to sign up.

Click here to submit an event or learn more. Contact Laura Petrus with any questions.

* * * * *

Volunteer for Operation Move In

Dr. Andrew McCarthy helps unload belongings from a pickup truck into a move-in bin during 2025’s Operation Move In.

Operation Move In (OMI) 2026 is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 19-20, in residential spaces for new students across campus.

Those interested in volunteering can register here. For more information, contact the OMI Volunteer Committee co-chairs Erica Holmes Trujillo and Dr. Andrew McCarthy at omi@utc.edu.

* * * * *

Welcome back Brown Academy

Wear your best blue and gold, bring a pom pom and meet at 7:45 a.m. on the corner of E. 8th Street and Campus Drive. Click here to sign up.

* * * * *

Celebrate Founder’s Day

As part of the celebration, the campus community is invited to participate in two anniversary initiatives:

1886 Challenge: Faculty, staff and students will work together to complete 18,860 hours of community service during the anniversary year.
140 Community Events for 140 Years: UTC will recognize and support 140 community-focused events led by faculty, staff and students that strengthen connections with the Chattanooga community.

Additional information about Founder’s Week events, the anniversary initiatives and ways to participate will be shared in the coming weeks.

Outstanding People of UTC

Photo by Russell Hons

The Chattanooga women’s basketball team was recognized by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association as one of the nation’s top academic programs, finishing No. 5 among all NCAA Division I teams in team GPA. The Mocs posted a program-record 3.807 GPA during the 2025-26 academic year, the highest of any program in the South and the only Southern Conference team to rank in the Top 25.

* * * * *

Dr. Reetesh Ranjan

Dr. Reetesh Ranjan, an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, develops and applies multi-scale models of turbulence, a longstanding challenge in fluid dynamics with applications in combustion and energy conversion, rocket propulsion, high-speed aerodynamics and stratified ocean flows.

Over the years, his research has received support from several federal agencies, including the National Science Foundation, the Office of Naval Research and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research. He has collaborated with researchers across leading institutions. Click here to learn more.

* * * * *

Charlie Mix (right)

Charlie Mix, director of the UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science, recently accepted the Storytelling with Maps Innovation Award at the Esri User Conference in San Diego for the center’s “Mapping Chattanooga’s Urban Forests” project.

* * * * *

Check out these Mocs in the news:

Senior anthropology and psychology major James Devereaux was featured in a 715 Newsroom story about a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) experience at the University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic.
Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall spoke to Local 3 News about how conflict in the Middle East affects gas prices and other markets.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar was interviewed by TBS News Dig (Japan) about the Iran and U.S. conflict.

Mark Your Calendar

The next Staff Senate meeting will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 4, in the University Center Auditorium and via Zoom. All staff are encouraged to attend and stay informed about initiatives and updates affecting the UTC community.

* * * * *

Departments interested in participating can contact Marli Wolff, assistant director of community and employer relations, for registration information.

* * * * *

Photo courtesy of Derek Daniel/GoMocs.com

Kickoff times and promotions have been announced for the Chattanooga Mocs’ 2026 home football schedule at Finley Stadium:

Sept. 5 vs. Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m.
- Future Fans Night (free admission for children 12 and younger)
- Annual Little Mocs Walk
- Light-up rally towel giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
Sept. 19 vs. Wofford, 6 p.m.
- White Out Game
- UTC Fall Family Weekend
- Mocs Flock Finley
- Academic Night
Oct. 10 vs. Samford, 1 p.m.
- Salute to Heroes
Oct. 31 vs. VMI, 1 p.m.
- Halloween with the Mocs
- Scrappy Kids Club Day
- Senior Day
Nov. 7 vs. Mercer, 1 p.m.
- Homecoming
- Fan Appreciation Game
- Band Day

Season tickets are on sale now through GoMocs.com.

* * * * *

Undergraduate Admissions announced its fall 2026 recruitment event schedule. Faculty and staff are encouraged to save the dates and help spread the word to prospective students and families.

Sept. 30: Power C Tour – Nashville/Franklin
Oct. 8: Power C Tour – Memphis
Oct. 21: Power C Tour – Knoxville
Oct. 28: Power C Tour – Chattanooga
Nov. 14: Blue and Gold Preview

Campus Updates

Please be advised that Vine Street, between Palmetto Street and the University Greenway, will be temporarily closed to vehicular traffic during Freshman Orientation sessions on the following dates and times:

4 p.m. today (July 28), through 5 p.m. Thursday, July 30

Parking Lots 10, 11 and 12 will remain open. Access to these lots will be available through the detour route via Parking Lot 15. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the UTC Department of Public Safety at (423) 425-4357 or dps@utc.edu.

* * * * *

The Manage My Housing portal is open now until 5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 2, for students to change their fall 2026 residential meal plan. Meal plan eligibility is based on earned credit hours. If your spring 2026 or summer 2026 credits will change your student classification, please wait until final grades are submitted before you attempt to make a change.

The University classifies undergraduate students as freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors according to the number of credit hours the student has completed:

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

The Meal Plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

* * * * *

Last week, the UTC Staff Senate hosted its first annual Summer Staff Conference in Lupton Hall. Staff from across campus spent the day learning, growing professionally and breaking down silos between departments.

Themed “Fill Your Bucket,” the conference featured a staff resource fair, info sessions on campus departments and initiatives, and facilities tours highlighting the people and places that keep UTC running smoothly. The conference supports a broader campus-wide goal of serving students with excellence by helping build a campus where staff, students and faculty can thrive together.

* * * * *

Early-bird registration is now open for Chattanooga Connect 2026, the UTC Research Institute’s (UTCRI) third annual conference that brings together leaders from government, industry, academia and entrepreneurship to explore the future of transportation, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and connected mobility.

For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.

* * * * *

All aboard the UTC train! Did you know UTC has a custom train? This unique piece of campus history is available for campus and community events.

* * * * *

How it works:

Register for classes as usual.
Approximately one month before classes begin, students will receive an email from the bookstore partner with instructions for reviewing courses and selecting how they would like to receive materials.
The UTC Bookstore will prepare course materials and notify students when they are ready.
Physical materials can be picked up at the UTC Bookstore or shipped directly to students.
Digital materials will be available through Canvas.
Students with rental materials will receive reminders about return deadlines at the end of the semester.

Benefits include:

Lower costs on required course materials
Access to course materials by the first day of class
Digital materials delivered directly through Canvas
One streamlined process for obtaining required course materials

* * * * *

Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.

* * * * *

Adobe Stock Image

* * * * *

Follow the UTC Book Club and Chatty Book Club on Instagram for updates, and watch for the announcement of Chatty Book Club’s first book on July 31.

* * * * *

The Institute of Contemporary Art Chattanooga is now showcasing “Reconsidered Recollections,” a new exhibition co-curated by UTC students featuring works from the ICA’s permanent collection. The exhibition explores themes of identity, memory and interpretation through artworks that are rarely on public display.

The exhibition is free and open to the public at the Fine Arts Center on UTC’s campus. Learn more about gallery hours and programming at ICA Chattanooga.

* * * * *

The UTC Library is making it easier for students, faculty and staff to explore all the city has to offer.

Through the Chattanooga Passport program, members of the UTC community can check out passes to some of the area’s most popular attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Zoo, Ruby Falls, Chattanooga Theatre Centre and Chattanooga Football Club.

* * * * *

Due to nearby construction, the Oak Street entrance to Lot 26A is closed and several parking spaces near that entrance have been temporarily fenced off. The closure is expected to remain in place through Aug. 1.

Faculty, staff and students should use the McCallie Avenue entrance to access Lot 26A during this time. Please plan accordingly and allow extra time when traveling to campus.

* * * * *

If someone experiences an opioid overdose on UTC’s campus, University leaders want a life-saving resource nearby.

This spring, UTC completed the installation of 52 ONEbox naloxone stations across campus, placing them in buildings alongside other emergency equipment such as automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

* * * * *

A Moc’s First Year is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to host a First Class session on Friday, Aug. 21, immediately following Convocation.

* * * * *

UTC Choruses has openings for tenor and bass singers for the upcoming academic year, with scholarship opportunities available for select positions.

* * * * *

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

UTC Newsroom

Nishat Tasnim Nisha

Nishat Tasnim Nisha’s internship at the Tennessee Department of Transportation began with a visit to a UTC career fair.

After learning about the opportunity, the master’s student in civil engineering—with an emphasis in transportation and environmental engineering—applied with encouragement from her graduate advisor, Dr. Jejal Reddy Bathi. This summer, she’s helping TDOT keep major transportation projects on track while continuing her graduate research at UTC.

* * * * *

DNP acute care student Alexis Murray—who received her doctoral degree from UTC in May 2026—talks with a patient’s daughter during an AI simulation.

Two UTC College of Nursing faculty members recently shared their work on AI-assisted simulation with an international audience, leading a webinar on how the technology can help prepare graduate nurse practitioner students for difficult conversations in palliative care.

Dr. Chris Doneski, director of UTC’s acute care nurse practitioner program and a simulation faculty member, and Dr. Rosebelle Peters, nursing simulation program director and senior lecturer, presented “Prepare Graduate Nurse Practitioners for Difficult Conversations with AI Palliative Simulations” through HealthySimulation.com.

* * * * *

Every August, as UTC begins a new academic year, more students without a reliable mode of transportation move on campus. UTC is located in an area of Chattanooga featuring plenty of places and activities within a reasonable walking distance for students. Here are 10 sites and activities that UTC students can walk to from campus and check out with their friends.

WUTC

As part of the America 250 commemoration, WUTC is presenting “Echoes of Chattanooga’s Past,” a series of poetic monologues inspired by oral histories from Chattanoogans born in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Written by playwright Dr. Peggy Douglas, directed by UTC’s Dr. Anne Swedberg and produced by WUTC, the series brings local history to life through voices preserved in the Chattanooga Public Library’s archives.

July 21-27, 2026

Updates and news for the week of July 21-27, 2026

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

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

Highlights

The Chancellor’s Office has moved

The Chancellor’s Office has relocated from Founders Hall to the Alumni House, located at 551 Oak St. In addition to the Chancellor’s Office staff, this also includes Dr. Matt Matthews and the Office of the Provost and Executive Director of Economic and Workforce Development Jermaine Freeman.

Be on the lookout for information regarding an open house to see the offices in one of the most historic buildings on campus.

* * * * *

Volunteer for Operation Move In

Dr. Andrew McCarthy helps unload belongings from a pickup truck into a move-in bin during 2025’s Operation Move In.

Operation Move In (OMI) 2026 is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 19-20, in residential spaces for new students across campus.

Those interested in volunteering can register here. For more information, contact the OMI Volunteer Committee co-chairs Erica Holmes Trujillo and Dr. Andrew McCarthy at omi@utc.edu.

* * * * *

Save the dates for recruitment events

Undergraduate Admissions has announced its fall 2026 recruitment event schedule. Faculty and staff are encouraged to save the dates and help spread the word to prospective students and families.

Sept. 30: Power C Tour – Nashville/Franklin
Oct. 8: Power C Tour – Memphis
Oct. 21: Power C Tour – Knoxville
Oct. 28: Power C Tour – Chattanooga
Nov. 14: Blue and Gold Preview

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Celebrate Founder’s Day

UTC will kick off a yearlong celebration of its 140th anniversary on Founder’s Day, Sept. 15, honoring the university’s history while highlighting its continued impact on Chattanooga and beyond.

As part of the celebration, the campus community is invited to participate in two anniversary initiatives:

1886 Challenge: Faculty, staff and students will work together to complete 18,860 hours of community service during the anniversary year.
140 Community Events for 140 Years: UTC will recognize and support 140 community-focused events led by faculty, staff and students that strengthen connections with the Chattanooga community.

Additional information about Founder’s Week events, the anniversary initiatives and ways to participate will be shared in the coming weeks.

Outstanding People of UTC

Dr. Kim Wingate

The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP) provided its fourth-quarter report for the 2026 fiscal year. Among those receiving awards during the quarter was Dr. Kim Wingate (School of Education), who received $1,114,074 from the Tennessee Department of Education for the project titled “Grow Your Own Apprenticeship (FY2026-FY2027).”

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Three UTC employees were recognized with 2026 University of Tennessee Alumni Association awards:

Emily Alonge, associate lecturer in the Department of Chemistry and Physics, received an Outstanding Teacher Award.
Michael Standard, assistant professor and studio librarian in the UTC Library Studio, received an Outstanding Teacher Award.
Julia Bursch, chief operating officer of the UTC Research Institute, received a Public Service Award recognizing her contributions to the welfare and good of the public.

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Dr. Jenny Hogg

The applications of research at the UTC range from quantum and the automotive industry to Tennessee’s rivers and streams, and even to track, field and hardwood.

Dr. Jenny Hogg, an athletic training professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance, aims to help athletes perform at their best. Using augmented reality and machine learning, Hogg’s research examines athletes’ biomechanical performance and methods to improve it.

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UTC Police Cpl. Ginger Dockery and Chief Sean O’Brien

The UTC Police Department recently recognized seven officers for promotions in honor of their leadership, dedication and service to the campus community. Aaron Bayer, Ross Brenza, Benjamin Chassen and Jeffrey Muzyn were promoted to sergeant, while Ellen Centers, Ginger Dockery and Corey Ward were promoted to corporal. The promotions recognize each officer’s commitment to protecting and serving the UTC community.

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From left: Tom Rybolt, Ann Rybolt, Gail Meyer, Titus Albu, Jim Narramore, Doug Kutz, Gretchen Potts, Paula Hayes, Greg Grant, Beverly Kutz, Helen Gross, Nancy Tolar and Jisook Kim

Current and retired UTC faculty gathered to celebrate the 80th birthday of longtime faculty member and former Department of Chemistry head Doug Kutz. Kutz spent decades teaching and leading the Department of Chemistry, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science Saeid Golkar was interviewed by Quotidiano Nazionale, one of Italy’s leading national newspapers, and the French news magazine Le Point. He also wrote an op-ed for the Middle East Forum.
Department Head and Professor of Engineering Management and Technology Erkan Kaplanoglu and Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Mina Sartipi were featured in a Teknovation.biz story about UTC’s new Biomechatronics in Healthcare Initiative.
Associate Professor in the Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science DeAnna Beasley spoke to NewsChannel 9 about the spotted lanternfly in Tennessee.
Center for Regional Economic Research Director Howard Wall spoke to the Times Free Press about his forecast for job growth in the Chattanooga region.
West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs Brandon Bouchillon recently published a new research article and received the Top Paper Award from the Communication Theory and Methodology Division of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication.

Mark Your Calendar

Departments interested in participating can contact Marli Wolff, assistant director of community and employer relations, for registration information.

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Photo courtesy of Derek Daniel/GoMocs.com

Kickoff times and promotions have been announced for the Chattanooga Mocs’ 2026 home football schedule at Finley Stadium:

Sept. 5 vs. Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m.
- Future Fans Night (free admission for children 12 and younger)
- Annual Little Mocs Walk
- Light-up rally towel giveaway for the first 1,000 fans
Sept. 19 vs. Wofford, 6 p.m.
- White Out Game
- UTC Fall Family Weekend
- Mocs Flock Finley
- Academic Night
Oct. 10 vs. Samford, 1 p.m.
- Salute to Heroes
Oct. 31 vs. VMI, 1 p.m.
- Halloween with the Mocs
- Scrappy Kids Club Day
- Senior Day
Nov. 7 vs. Mercer, 1 p.m.
- Homecoming
- Fan Appreciation Game
- Band Day

Season tickets are on sale now through GoMocs.com.

Campus Updates

Thank you to everyone who submitted hours for the 1886 Challenge. So far, 246 hours have been completed. Faculty, staff and students can click here to submit hours throughout the academic year.

Resident Director Kinlee Allen recently took a group of resident assistants to volunteer at the Chattanooga Area Food Bank, where they helped clean the warehouse and pack meal boxes.

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UTC is launching the MocsBooks Total Access Program for undergraduate students beginning in fall 2026. The new course material delivery program provides required materials for participating courses by the first day of class, with costs included on the university billing statement at $22 per credit hour. The program is expected to save students 35-50% compared to purchasing materials individually. Click here to learn more.

How it works:

Register for classes as usual.
Approximately one month before classes begin, students will receive an email from the bookstore partner with instructions for reviewing courses and selecting how they would like to receive materials.
The UTC Bookstore will prepare course materials and notify students when they are ready.
Physical materials can be picked up at the UTC Bookstore or shipped directly to students.
Digital materials will be available through Canvas.
Students with rental materials will receive reminders about return deadlines at the end of the semester.

Benefits include:

Lower costs on required course materials
Access to course materials by the first day of class
Digital materials delivered directly through Canvas
One streamlined process for obtaining required course materials

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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

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Follow the UTC Book Club and Chatty Book Club on Instagram for updates, and watch for the announcement of Chatty Book Club’s first book on July 31.

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The exhibition is free and open to the public at the Fine Arts Center on UTC’s campus. Learn more about gallery hours and programming at ICA Chattanooga.

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The UTC Library is making it easier for students, faculty and staff to explore all the city has to offer.

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Faculty, staff and students should use the McCallie Avenue entrance to access Lot 26A during this time. Please plan accordingly and allow extra time when traveling to campus.

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If someone experiences an opioid overdose on UTC’s campus, University leaders want a life-saving resource nearby.

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4 p.m. Tuesday, July 28, through 5 p.m. Thursday, July 30

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The University classifies undergraduate students as freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors according to the number of credit hours the student has completed:

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

The Meal Plans are listed by student classification. Please refer to this link for that information.

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A Moc’s First Year is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to host a First Class session on Friday, Aug. 21, immediately following Convocation.

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UTC Choruses has openings for tenor and bass singers for the upcoming academic year, with scholarship opportunities available for select positions.

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UTC Newsroom

Kimele Carter

Kimele Carter, executive director of the Center for Student Accessibility at UTC, brings decades of higher education experience to her role. A self-described lifelong campus person, Carter grew up around college campuses, began her career in academic advising and later found her calling in accessibility services.

Carter’s role involves helping students connect with accommodations, assistive technology, guidance and support. She wants students to know the space is welcoming, not intimidating, and that any student can stop by with questions.

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Dr. Keenan Dungey (right) collects samples in Bumbee Creek.

On a summer morning in the mountains of East Tennessee, a group of UTC students and researchers waded through the waters of Bumbee Creek.

The group filled bottles with stream water and documented conditions at each site. Back on campus, those samples would help researchers identify pollutants that could be affecting the laurel dace, one of North America’s most endangered fish.

WUTC

Dr. Claudia Kramer

Scott L. Probasco Jr. Distinguished Chair of Free Enterprise Claudia Kramer joined WUTC’s “Scenic Roots” to discuss the 250th anniversary of the United States.

© 2026 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 615 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37403