Updates and news for the week of October 13-19, 2026
The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.
Chancellor Lori Bruce stands with two of the winning students, Kaila Bui (left) and Sierra Brown, while holding their tartan design.
Four UTC students have designed a new piece of University history.Kaila Bui, Sierra Brown, Ryleigh Simmons and Emma Tuttle won the Chancellor’s Tartan Challenge, an interdisciplinary competition that asked students to create a tartan inspired by UTC’s history and future.The winning design will now move toward becoming UTC’s official tartan.
A tartan is a woven pattern of intersecting horizontal and vertical bands in different colors, historically associated with Scottish families and communities. Today, tartans can represent organizations and institutions. Click here to read more about their design.
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Complete the UT System Student Experience Survey
Your voice matters. What’s it really like to be a student at UTC? The UT System Student Experience Survey gives you a chance to tell us what’s working, what could be better and what you want UTC to know. It takes about 5-7 minutes, and your responses are confidential. Check your student email for the survey invitation and share your experience.
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Apply for the Public Service Award
The Public Service Award is a $1,000 scholarship awarded by the UTC Alumni Board of Directors and the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. Two undergraduate students displaying the most distinguished service to the UTC campus as well as the Chattanooga community will each receive a $1,000 scholarship.
University service includes totally voluntary positions (campus committees, student orientation groups, Greek memberships, etc.) or positions which are accompanied by a stipend (student government association positions, admissions and recruiting work, publication staffs, etc.). Community public service can include such involvement as volunteer work in hospitals, counseling, tutoring, environmental services, or any service that is not paid and does not receive academic credit.
The award is presented during half time of the Homecoming game and there are no restrictions on the way the financial award is used. Receiving this award may impact other scholarship monies.
The annual award is given to a UTC undergraduate student who:
Is carrying a full semester load of a minimum of 12 hours.
Has a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
Has not previously received the UTC Public Service Award
Submits a letter of reference (from faculty, administrator, and/or volunteer organizational advisor)
Click here to apply. The application deadline is Monday, Oct. 19.
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Remembering Fred Obear
The UTC campus community joined the family of Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear last week for a celebration of life reception in the Wolford Family Athletic Center.Obear, who served as UTC chancellor from 1981-97 and interim chancellor from 2004-05, died July 24 at age 91.
Outstanding People of UTC
Clockwise from top left: Dr. Lauren Ingraham, Dr. Andrew McCarthy, Dr. Kristin Pope, Dr. Allen Pratt, Dr. Jessica Taylor
Congratulations to UTC faculty and staff who received awards or submitted proposals for sponsored programs in September. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs announced that faculty and staff attracted $8,191,932 in external grant and contract awards during the month and submitted proposals for the potential to generate over $5,737,983 in external funding, if awarded.
Among those receiving awards in September were Dr. Lauren Ingraham (Academic Services), Dr. Andrew McCarthy (English), Dr. Kristin Pope (Career Connections), Dr. Allen Pratt (School of Education) and Dr. Jessica Taylor (Applied Leadership and Learning), who received $535,922 from the U.S. Department of Labor for the project titled “Reduced Credit Degrees: Transforming College Curriculum to Prepare Graduates for the Next Age of American Prosperity.”
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Chancellor Lori Bruce presents Moc’s Golden Feather Awards to Ted Ross, left, and Deborah Barr, right.
Presented by the Office of Human Resources, the Moc’s Golden Feather Award honors staff members who go above and beyond to make UTC a great place to work and learn. Recipients are nominated by colleagues, students and campus partners for their service, leadership and impact across the University.
Barr, an administrative specialist in the Department of Mathematics, was recognized for her steady leadership and as a central point of connection for students, faculty and visitors. She was nominated by Senior Lecturer and Undergraduate Studies Coordinator Angelique Ramnarine.
Ross, facilities manager in the Department of Art, was honored for his problem-solving, adaptability, and care for students and faculty.
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Clockwise from top left: Dr. Christina Policastro, Lindsey Felix, Dr. Max Jordon, Lucy White, Michelle Prince, Julia Bursch, Dr. Jordan King, Brett Fuchs, Brittney (Holder) Burks, Dr. Brooke Epperson, Dr. Victoria Bryan
Eleven faculty and staff members from UTC have been selected to participate in the UT System’s 2027 Leadership Institute, a prestigious professional development program designed to strengthen leadership skills and foster collaboration across the UT System.
The weeklong institute will take place in Chattanooga in March 2027, bringing together participants from across the UT System for collaborative learning, leadership development and opportunities to build connections with colleagues from other campuses and institutes.
UTC’s 11 participants represent a broad cross-section of the University, including academic affairs, research, athletics, advancement, public safety, student services and campus operations:
Dr. Victoria Bryan, director, Walker Center for Teaching and Learning
Brittney (Holder) Burks, senior director of advancement, College of Nursing and Honors College
Julia Bursch, chief operating officer, UTC Research Institute
Dr. Brooke Epperson, associate dean and UC Foundation associate professor, College of Nursing
Lindsey Felix, assistant athletic director for academic enhancement, Athletics
Brett Fuchs, director of emergency management, threat assessment, emergency communications and safety; public information officer, Department of Public Safety
Dr. Max Jordon, associate professor, Department of Physical Therapy
Dr. Jordan King, director of Innovations in Honors and professor of practice, Honors College
Dr. Christina Policastro, assistant dean of the Graduate School and UC Foundation professor, Department of Criminal Justice
Interim Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Matt Matthews; Dean of the UT Health Science Center College of Medicine James Haynes; Assistant Vice Chancellor for Facilities Planning and Management Anthony McClellan; Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Success Stacie Grisham; Vice Chancellor for Communications and Marketing JAy Blackman; and Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate School Ethan Carver.
Anthony McClellan, assistant vice chancellor for facilities planning and management; Dr. Stacie Grisham, assistant vice chancellor for student success; Dr. JAy Blackman, vice chancellor for communications and marketing; and Dr. Ethan Carver, associate provost and dean of the Graduate School, recently completed the UT System Executive Leadership Institute.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
Assistant Vice Chancellor of Communications and Constituent Relations Amy Donahue spoke to News 12 Now on Mocs Give Day.
Associate Professor of Political Science Jeremy Strickler discussed the upcoming midterm elections for the Tennessee Lookout.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political ScienceSaeid Golkar talked to Heartlander News about oil shipments and the Iran war.
Mark Your Calendar
Photo credit: Ray Soldano
This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:
Thursday, Oct. 15: Soccer vs. Samford, Finley Stadium, 6 p.m.
Friday, Oct.16: Volleyball vs. Western Carolina, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct.17: Volleyball vs. Western Carolina, Maclellan Gym, 3 p.m.
Wrestling, Oct. 17: Wrestling Blue and Gold match, Maclellan Gym, 6:30 p.m.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.
Business Analytics Certificate Information Sessions
Visit the Biology, Geology and Environmental Science Fall Festival from 3-4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, on the sidewalk between Holt and Grote Halls. There will be games, sweets and representatives from student clubs. The College of Arts and Sciences Hub Advising and Career Connections will also be represented.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC with a showing of “Chinese Take-Away” (“Un cuento chino”) at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, in the University Center Auditorium.
The Spanish Film Festival is presented by the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and co-sponsored by Latin American Studies, A Moc’s First Year, Life Out Loud, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Film and Television minor, the Department of Communication and the Spanish Club.
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Registration is open for Mocs in the Mountains Leadership Retreat, a free leadership retreat for UTC students taking place Friday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 18, at Fort Mountain Retreat Center. Students at any level of leadership experience are invited to spend the weekend strengthening their leadership skills, connecting with other Mocs and exploring how they can make an impact at UTC and beyond.
Transportation, lodging and meals are provided at no cost to participants. Space is limited, and registration is required. Click here to register. For questions, contact the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community at engage@utc.edu.
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Celebrate Disability Employment Awareness Month with the Center for Student Accessibility and Career Connections at a Resume Building Workshop from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 19, in University Center Room 203. Drop in anytime during the workshop for help building or improving your resume.
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Join the Center for Global Education for International Education Week (IEW), which recognizes the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.
Each fall, the Center for Global Education celebrates IEW through special events related to international learning, leadership and exchange at UTC. IEW events celebrate cultural experiences, global awareness and the value that international scholars and students bring to campus communities. Attend the events below for an opportunity to have global experiences on UTC’s campus. Events are open to all students, faculty and staff.
The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 19: Dr. Ryan Fritts, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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Meet employers looking for talent across communication, journalism, public relations and media at the UTC Communication Career and Internship Expo from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 20, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The expo is open to students of all majors and minors.
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Hear from UTC political science professors Drs. Chris Acuff, Sarah Heise and Jeremy Strickler during a discussion of the 2026 midterm elections at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in University Center Room 230.
The discussion will explore the dynamics of election administration, what the latest polls reveal and possible outcomes for national governance.
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Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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The Department of Communication has launched “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring trust and community. The series will continue at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in Benwood Auditorium (ECS 230) with Robert D. Putnam presenting “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States.
The event is free and open to the public. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speaker can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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Join the Department of Mathematics for a pumpkin carving and course preview from 3:30-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Engineering and Computer Science Room 422.
Students thinking about their spring courses can meet instructors, learn what they’ll be studying and get a sneak peek at upcoming courses. Math Club, Pi Mu Epsilon and AWM are teaming up for the event, which will also feature pumpkin carving and food.
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Dr. Lillian Frost of Virginia Tech University will present “Contemporary Crises of Citizenship in the Arab World” from 4:20-5:45 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Lupton Hall Room 242 as part of the Annual Middle Eastern and Asian Studies Lecture Series.
Frost will discuss contemporary citizenship challenges across the Arab world, including women’s rights in nationality laws, the rights of noncitizen residents, nationality-by-investment programs and increases in nationality revocations.
A reception with free Middle Eastern snacks will be held from 3-4 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 235. The event is free and open to the public.
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With the 2027-28 FAFSA opening Oct. 1, students can stop by the Financial Aid Office for free, in-person FAFSA support during FAFSA Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23 and Friday, Oct. 30. No appointment is needed.
Staff can help with questions, troubleshooting and figuring out next steps. Virtual FAFSA appointments are also available through the Financial Wellness Center. For more information, click here.
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series features a special speaker sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Friday, Oct. 23: Ayça Çetinkaya
Friday, Nov. 13: William Erickson
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The UTC Bookstore, in partnership with UTC Alumni, will host a 2026 graduation celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Mocs Bookstore.
Graduating students can pick up pre-ordered regalia or purchase regalia, have cap and gown photos taken by a photographer, order class rings and announcements, and connect with campus departments for help with graduation needs. Students can also register for door prizes.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Wednesday, Oct. 28: 4 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109
Join Dr. Dawn Ford, UTC adjunct faculty member and member of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps, for “Today’s Climate Reality: Chattanooga and Beyond” from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, in Lupton Hall Room 120.
The presentation will be followed by a panel discussion featuring local climate leaders from UTC’s IGT Lab, the Sierra Club, the City of Chattanooga’s Office of Sustainability, and UTC’s Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs. Refreshments will be provided.
The symposium will bring together faculty from across the humanities and social sciences to share AI-related research, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The schedule includes:
9:30-10 a.m.: A cross-disciplinary conversation about the new AI Certificate being developed by the College of Arts and Sciences.
10:10-11:45 a.m.: Faculty research presentations from Zachary Simoni, Chandra Ward, Andrew J. Van Slyke, Marcus D. Mauldin and Nagwan R. Zahry.
1:35-2:20 p.m.: Faculty research presentations from Chris Vidmar, Rowan Johnson, Brandon Bouchillon and Jeremy Strickler.
The symposium will also feature guest speaker Hunter Heyck, director of the Center for Creativity and Authenticity in AI Cultural Production at the University of Oklahoma, who will discuss building interdisciplinary research teams and exploring opportunities for external funding.
Click here for more information and to view the event poster.
The UTC Library’s annual Halloween Party and Costume Contest is back with snacks, candy, games and plenty of spooky fun. Stop by the first floor of the Library from 1-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, to take a break from the study grind and celebrate.
Students, faculty and staff are also invited to enter the Costume Contest for a chance to win prizes. Costume photos will be posted online, where Mocs can vote for their favorite student and faculty/staff costumes. The costumes with the most votes win.
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The Chattanooga Mocs men’s and women’s basketball programs will host their annual Halloween-themed Boo & Gold event on Friday, Oct. 30, at McKenzie Arena.
The free, family-friendly event will begin with trick-or-treating on the concourse from 5:30-6:20 p.m., followed by basketball activities from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fans can enjoy team introductions, shooting contests, games and other activities featuring both Mocs basketball programs.
The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes.
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Join Scrappy’s Cupboard and Student Outreach and Support for the 4th Annual Homecoming Food Fight from Sunday, Nov. 1, through Saturday, Nov. 7. UTC students, faculty and staff are invited to compete in the friendly competition while giving back to Scrappy’s Cupboard, UTC’s on-campus food pantry.
Offices, departments and campus organizations can register to collect donations and compete in divisions for student organizations, fraternities and sororities, residence halls, faculty/staff departments, academic colleges and divisions, and Chattanooga community members and alumni.
Click here to sign up by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. Only one representative from each participating group should register. For questions, contact scrappyscupboard@utc.edu.
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The UTC Homecoming Parade is back in a new format. On Friday, Nov. 6, community members are invited to line Vine Street to watch the parade, then follow it to Chamberlain Pavilion for a pep rally featuring the UTC Marching Mocs, Spirit Squads, campus leadership and more.
The parade will begin at 5 p.m., and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from vendors on Chamberlain Field. Click here to RSVP to attend, or click here to register to participate in the parade.
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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following students will be presenting their final works of research as advanced degree candidates. Everyone is invited to attend.
Mocs students, you will be receiving an email this week about the Student Experience Survey. This survey is administered to all students across the UT System to learn about your current needs, well-being and preferences, and we need everyone’s help in completing the five-minute questionnaire. Click here to go to the survey. Student feedback informs us about the Mocs experience and helps identify opportunities for the future. Students are encouraged to complete the survey by Friday, Nov. 6.
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The College of Arts and Sciences regularly volunteers to serve lunch at the Chatt Foundation two to three times each month. Volunteers from across the College represent UTC in this ongoing service opportunity.
The 1886 Challenge calls on faculty, staff and students to collectively contribute 18,860 hours of community service during the 2026-27 academic year. The initiative highlights service already taking place across the University through volunteer work, mentoring, service-learning and outreach.
Faculty, staff and students who have volunteered in the community can submit their hours through the 1886 Challenge form and help move UTC closer to its goal. Submitted photos can also be viewed in the photo gallery at the top of the 1886 Challenge page.
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The 2026 UT Administrative Professionals Summit (APS) will take place Wednesday, Nov. 11, through Friday, Nov. 13, at the Knoxville Convention Center. APS is a professional development conference designed for administrative professionals from UT and across industries to learn, connect and grow.
This year’s theme, “Learn! Lead! Excel!,” encourages attendees to embrace lifelong learning, lead from where they are and excel in their work. Through practical sessions, expert insights and peer networking, participants will gain skills, strategies and confidence for today’s evolving workplace.
Registration is $250 for UT employees using the case-sensitive code UTEmployee at checkout and $400 for non-UT employees. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 28. Click here to register.
Student Success Programs is looking to add mentors to its roster.
UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement.
Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions. Additional information will be shared with those who express interest.
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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions will feature 16 graduate students competing in the Three Minute Thesis Competition and 19 undergraduate students competing in the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition in the University Center Auditorium. The program will also include speakers, People’s Choice Award audience participation and more. Click here to view the schedule of events.
Paid summer research opportunities: Encourage undergraduate students to apply for paid Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. Funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and other organizations, REUs typically offer eight to 10 weeks of hands-on summer research along with a stipend, housing and travel allowances, and professional development. Click here to learn more.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Math Kangaroo, an annual international mathematics competition for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, is returning to UTC. Registration is now open for the competition, which will take place from 5-6:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2027, in Grote Hall.
UTC’s competition center is open to Tennessee students in grades K-12 and has a capacity of 50 participants. Kindergarten students will take the Grade 1 test and must be able to read and work independently.
Regular registration is $20 through Thursday, Dec. 31, with late registration available for $35 from Friday, Jan. 1, through Monday, Feb. 1. All registered students will receive mathematical gifts and participation ribbons, with additional awards available for top performers nationally and statewide.
Click here to learn more and register. For questions, contact Dr. Tatiana Allen, UC Foundation Professor of Physics and associate department head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.
Thinking about earning an advanced degree? UTC employees can take advantage of the University’s education benefit to pursue programs like UTC’s M.S. in Computer Science, a program specifically designed to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, including healthcare, psychology, linguistics, and other non-technical fields. The program provides a pathway for career changers and lifelong learners looking to build new skills and expand future opportunities
The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.
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The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
Lucy White
Lucy White is back at UTC with a new role and the same goal of helping students take care of themselves.
White, the new director of the Center for Wellbeing, previously worked at UTC in 2022 as assistant director for education and suicide prevention. After the grant-funded position ended, she spent three and a half years at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center counseling medical students and residents.
Now, she is returning with nearly a decade of experience in counseling and mental health. She is also a UTC graduate student in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, giving her the chance to experience campus as both a staff member and student.
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Chase (top left) and Izzy (holding football) Barajas transferred to UTC with the intention of getting involved in campus life, including winning an intramural flag football championship.
After transferring to UTC (Chase came in 2022 and Izzy arrived the following year), the recently married couple have earned their degrees, started careers in Chattanooga and bought a home.
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Students in Dr. Jejal Bathi’s ENCE 2010 Introduction to Environmental Engineering course collect water samples from the Tennessee River as part of a field exercise examining how location and surrounding conditions can affect water quality. Photo courtesy of Dr. Jejal Bathi.
Standing along the Tennessee River, UTC students in Introduction to Environmental Engineering recently collected water samples with an overarching question in mind: What is happening upstream, downstream and in the places where people live, work and build?
The field exercise was part of a larger lesson. Students sampled near Chickamauga Reservoir, Coolidge Park and points in between, learning how to select locations, collect data and examine conditions in a waterway central to the Chattanooga region. For Dr. Jejal Bathi, coordinator of UTC’s environmental engineering program, that work gets to the point of the discipline.
Dr. Gary Wilkerson, a professor in UTC’s Graduate Athletic Training Program in the Department of Health and Human Performance, is the lead author of “Virtual reality, machine learning, and statistical modeling reveal an association between multiple concussion history and impaired perceptual decision-making,” published in PLOS One—a peer-reviewed, open-access journal of the Public Library of Science.
WUTC
Artwork by Jeremiah Brill for the CSO
On WUTC’s “Scenic Roots,” Jackie Sands and Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Music Director Ilya Ram talked about the artwork created by Sands’ son, Jeremiah Brill, for the CSO’s new season ahead of its season premiere.
October 6-12, 2026
Updates and news for the week of October 6-12, 2026
The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.
Today (Oct. 6) is Mocs Give Day, bringing the UTC community together for a 24-hour online giving challenge in support of current and future Mocs. Alumni, faculty, staff, families and friends can make an impact through gifts that strengthen scholarships, programs and opportunities across campus. Every gift tells a story, and every gift helps shape the future of UTC. Learn more at mocsgiveday.utc.edu.
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Remembering Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear
The Obear family invites the UTC community to come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear. A Celebration of Life Reception will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center. Those unable to attend who would like to share a remembrance of Dr. Obear with the family can do so through this link.
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Complete the “Know How, Know Now” Wellness Challenge by Oct. 10
The self-paced K@TE course, “Suicide Prevention: Spot the Signs and Start the Conversation,” is part of the UT System’s “Know How, Know Now” wellness training series. The “Know How, Know Now” Challenge runs through Saturday, Oct. 10. Employees who complete all three trainings in the series earn a digital certificate and are entered into one of 10 systemwide drawings for a $50 gift card and a UT Wellness blanket.
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Register for Homecoming events
Homecoming 2026, MOCS2K, will take place Saturday, Oct. 31, through Saturday, Nov. 7. Students and campus departments can get involved through several upcoming opportunities.
Submit a Homecoming event: Campus departments are invited to submit events that connect to the Homecoming theme and complement activities planned throughout the week. The final submission deadline is Friday, Oct. 9, for inclusion on the online calendar. Click here to learn more, view the current schedule and submit an event.
Apply for Homecoming Court: Students who have demonstrated academic excellence and involvement on campus and in the Chattanooga community are invited to apply for the 2026 Homecoming Court. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. Click here to apply on MocSync.
Register for Homecoming Lip Sync: Student organizations and groups of UTC students can register for the MOCS2K Lip Sync Competition, taking place Wednesday, Nov. 4. Teams must have at least five members. Registration is due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. Click here to register on MocSync.
For questions about Homecoming Court or Lip Sync, contact Kidron Bullock. For questions about submitting a Homecoming event, contact engage@utc.edu.
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Remembering Dennis Haskins
Dennis Haskins
When Dennis Haskins’ name was called at UTC’s fall 2015 commencement, he crossed the stage in cap and gown at age 65, accepting the bachelor’s degree in theatre that had been unfinished business for decades.
For most of the country, Dennis Haskins was Principal Richard Belding, the man trying to keep order at Bayside High while Zack Morris and his friends found new ways to test his patience, who delivered the line generations of viewers came to know: “Hey, hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?”
For Chattanooga and UTC, he was much more than a familiar face from a television classic. He was a native son who found success in Hollywood but never stopped talking about the city and University that had given him his start.
Haskins died Sunday, Sept. 27, at age 75.
Outstanding People of UTC
When UTC launched the 1886 Challenge in celebration of the University’s 140th anniversary, the idea was simple: honor UTC’s founding year by challenging the campus community to contribute 18,860 hours of volunteer service during the year. One quarter into the Challenge, the Mocs are making those hours count.
One quarter into the Challenge, the Mocs are making those hours count. UTC students, faculty, staff, alumni and retirees have already reported 7,298.5 hours of service, putting the University at nearly 39% of its 18,860-hour goal. And those hours are adding up in some pretty impressive ways.
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The Chattanooga Mocs announced the Class of 2026 Hall of Fame inductees. This group includes six new members spanning four different decades in the rich, championship history of Mocs athletics.
Gary Davis (men’s basketball, 1962-65), Willie Greenway (football, 1985-88), Jacob Huesman (football, 2012-15), Russ Huesman (player and coach), Kari Krouse Swafford (volleyball, 2000-03) and Larry Meierotto (wrestling, 1980-83) are the six newest entries into this ledger.
The Hall of Fame also recognizes four individual award winners: Diane Wolford (Gordon Davenport Award), David Williams (Joe Morrison Award), McKenna Faychak (Scrappy Moore Award) and Ron Hall (Harold Wilkes Award). Click here to learn more.
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Caitlan Hendrickson
UTC has selected Caitlan Hendrickson, an experienced organizational ombuds and conflict resolution professional with more than 20 years of experience, to serve as the University’s new ombudsperson.
As ombudsperson, Hendrickson will provide an independent, impartial, informal and confidential resource for members of the UTC community. The role provides a place for individuals to discuss concerns, better understand University resources and processes, explore options and identify constructive approaches to addressing workplace and campus issues. Organizational ombuds can also help identify broader trends and systemic concerns while protecting the confidentiality of those seeking assistance.
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The All Majors Career Fair welcomed 48 employers and more than 400 students, giving students the opportunity to explore jobs and internships and make connections with potential employers. One student who stopped by just to check out the fair walked away with an internship with the Chattanooga Police Department.
The fair also featured the Career Closet Fashion Show, showcasing professional clothing available to UTC students through the Career Closet.
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The UTC Nurse Anesthesia program hosted a free Peripheral Regional workshop for local certified registered nurse anesthetists. The two-day workshop included didactic and hands-on instruction, and participants received continuing education credits for completing the program.
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Billy Weeks (center)
Billy Weeks, photojournalism senior lecturer in the Department of Communication, recently presented at the Chattanooga Aperture Project, where several UTC communication students attended and exhibited their work.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
Head of UTC’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering Mengjun Xie was featured in a Research.com story about UTC’s College of Engineering and Computer Science and its work in AI, cybersecurity, quantum technology and advanced computing.
Vice Provost for Academic AffairsElizabeth O’Brien spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about adult children moving back in with their parents.
Head of UTC’s Department of Theatre Steve Ray discussed Dennis Haskins’ legacy with Local 3 News and Times Free Press.
Friday, Oct. 9: Volleyball vs. ETSU, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 10: Volleyball vs. ETSU, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 10: Football vs. Samford, Finley Stadium, 1 p.m.
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Walgreens will offer on-campus flu vaccine clinics for students, faculty and staff during September and October. No appointment is necessary, but appointments are available to streamline the process.
Today (Oct. 6): 10 a.m.-2 p.m., University Center Tennessee Room
Wednesday, Oct. 7: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Chamberlain Field during the Be Well Health Fair (rain location: University Center Tennessee Room)
Bring your current insurance and pharmacy benefits cards. Free vouchers will be available for those without insurance. Click here to schedule an appointment.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.
Learn how to earn academic credit while exploring the world during a study abroad information session from 2-3 p.m. today (Oct. 6). The session will cover program options, application timelines, scholarships and financial aid, costs, and the student experience abroad.
All students are welcome, whether they are just starting to explore study abroad or are ready to apply. Click here to learn more.
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Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Today (Oct. 6)
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
UTC LIVE! makes its Cadek Hall debut today (Oct. 6) with Stundom, a rising Danish folk group making its first American tour. The UTC performance is the first stop on Stundom’s tour. Drawing on Scandinavian dance music and storytelling traditions, the group blends violin, cittern and piano with elements of chamber and symphonic music. Stundom has been nominated multiple times for Danish Music Awards Roots/Folk honors, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year.
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The cast of the UTC Theatre Co.’s “The Revolutionists” includes (clockwise from top left) Mahogany Sales as Marianne Angelle, Gracie Headrick as Marie Antoinette, Cameron Schulz as Charlotte Corday, and Lily Phillips as Olympe de Gouges. Photo courtesy of UTC Theatre Co.
When the world is falling apart, what can—and should—an artist do?
That question drives “The Revolutionists,” Lauren Gunderson’s irreverent comedy about four women who find themselves at the center of the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror. The UTC Theatre Co. will present the production at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6-10, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Oct. 10, in the Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre in the UTC Fine Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office, either in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $20 for general admission, plus service fees, and $15 for students (with a valid student ID) and seniors.
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Join Dr. Donna Ray for “But … Is It a Cult?” from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, in Lupton Hall Room 239. The discussion will explore what defines a cult, why the term can be problematic and better ways to talk about religious and spiritual movements that may make people uncomfortable.
The event is part of the “What’s the Big Idea?” discussion series hosted by the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies. Free pizza will be provided.
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The UTC College of Nursing invites faculty, staff, students, friends, family and community members to its Fall Festival from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, on the lawn of the Metropolitan Building, 518 Oak St.
Enjoy an afternoon of fall festivities, including popcorn, pumpkin painting, crafts, games and a costume contest. Attendees can also learn more about UTC Nursing programs and connect with representatives from local health care organizations, including Erlanger, Siskin, CommonSpirit and the Hamilton County Health Department. Click here to view the full flyer.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC during the Spanish Film Festival, featuring free film screenings in the University Center Auditorium.
Wednesday, Oct. 7: La Suprema, 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Thursday, Oct. 15: Chinese Take-Away (Un cuento chino), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
The Spanish Film Festival is presented by the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and co-sponsored by Latin American Studies, A Moc’s First Year, Life Out Loud, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Film and Television minor, the Department of Communication and the Spanish Club.
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Explore professional opportunities in athletic training, physical therapy and occupational therapy at the AT/PT/OT Career Fair from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
More than 30 healthcare organizations will be in attendance. The event is sponsored by UTC Career Connections. Click here to view the event on Handshake.
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The UTC Quantum Center will host Dr. Wonhee Ko of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, for its upcoming colloquium from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, in the UTC Library Room 205. Ko will present “Probing Unconventional Superconductivity by Multi-Particle Tunneling Spectroscopy.”
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With the 2027-28 FAFSA opening Oct. 1, students can stop by the Financial Aid Office for free, in-person FAFSA support during FAFSA Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9; Friday, Oct. 23; and Friday, Oct. 30. No appointment is needed.
Staff can help with questions, troubleshooting and figuring out next steps. Virtual FAFSA appointments are also available through the Financial Wellness Center. For more information, click here.
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An eight-week summer 2027 business research internship opportunity in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is available for up to five UTC students. Join an information session at noon on Friday, Oct. 9, in Fletcher Hall Room 109.
Dr. Robert Dooley, dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, will lead the information sessions. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to COBInternational@utc.edu. The application deadline is Sunday, Nov. 1. Click here for more information and to apply.
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Visit the Biology, Geology and Environmental Science Fall Festival from 3-4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, on the sidewalk between Holt and Grote Halls. There will be games, sweets and representatives from student clubs. The College of Arts and Sciences Hub Advising and Career Connections will also be represented.
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Registration is open for Mocs in the Mountains Leadership Retreat, a free leadership retreat for UTC students taking place Friday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 18, at Fort Mountain Retreat Center. Students at any level of leadership experience are invited to spend the weekend strengthening their leadership skills, connecting with other Mocs and exploring how they can make an impact at UTC and beyond.
Transportation, lodging and meals are provided at no cost to participants. Space is limited, and registration is required. Click here to register. For questions, contact the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community at engage@utc.edu.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 19: Dr. Ryan Fritts, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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Meet employers looking for talent across communication, journalism, public relations and media at the UTC Communication Career and Internship Expo from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 20, in the University Center Tennessee Room. The expo is open to students of all majors and minors.
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Hear from UTC political science professors Drs. Chris Acuff, Sarah Heise and Jeremy Strickler during a discussion of the 2026 midterm elections at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in University Center Room 230.
The discussion will explore the dynamics of election administration, what the latest polls reveal and possible outcomes for national governance.
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The Department of Communication has launched “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring trust and community. The series will continue at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in Benwood Auditorium (ECS 230) with Robert D. Putnam presenting “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States.
The event is free and open to the public. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speaker can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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Join the Department of Mathematics for a pumpkin carving and course preview from 3:30-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Engineering and Computer Science Room 422.
Students thinking about their spring courses can meet instructors, learn what they’ll be studying and get a sneak peek at upcoming courses. Math Club, Pi Mu Epsilon and AWM are teaming up for the event, which will also feature pumpkin carving and food.
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series features a special speaker sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Friday, Oct. 23: Ayça Çetinkaya
Friday, Nov. 13: William Erickson
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The UTC Bookstore, in partnership with UTC Alumni, will host a 2026 graduation celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Mocs Bookstore.
Graduating students can pick up pre-ordered regalia or purchase regalia, have cap and gown photos taken by a photographer, order class rings and announcements, and connect with campus departments for help with graduation needs. Students can also register for door prizes.
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The College of Arts and Sciences invites faculty, staff and students to the AI Symposium on Research and Teaching Across the Humanities and Social Sciences from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, in University Center Room 315.
The symposium will bring together faculty from across the humanities and social sciences to share AI-related research, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The schedule includes:
9:30-10 a.m.: A cross-disciplinary conversation about the new AI Certificate being developed by the College of Arts and Sciences.
10:10-11:45 a.m.: Faculty research presentations from Zachary Simoni, Chandra Ward, Andrew J. Van Slyke, Marcus D. Mauldin and Nagwan R. Zahry.
1:35-2:20 p.m.: Faculty research presentations from Chris Vidmar, Rowan Johnson, Brandon Bouchillon and Jeremy Strickler.
The symposium will also feature guest speaker Hunter Heyck, director of the Center for Creativity and Authenticity in AI Cultural Production at the University of Oklahoma, who will discuss building interdisciplinary research teams and exploring opportunities for external funding.
The UTC Library’s annual Halloween Party and Costume Contest is back with snacks, candy, games and plenty of spooky fun. Stop by the first floor of the Library from 1-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, to take a break from the study grind and celebrate.
Students, faculty and staff are also invited to enter the Costume Contest for a chance to win prizes. Costume photos will be posted online, where Mocs can vote for their favorite student and faculty/staff costumes. The costumes with the most votes win.
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The UTC Homecoming Parade is back in a new format. On Friday, Nov. 6, community members are invited to line Vine Street to watch the parade, then follow it to Chamberlain Pavilion for a pep rally featuring the UTC Marching Mocs, Spirit Squads, campus leadership and more.
The parade will begin at 5 p.m., and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from vendors on Chamberlain Field. Click here to RSVP to attend, or click here to register to participate in the parade.
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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following students will be presenting their final works of research as advanced degree candidates. Everyone is invited to attend.
Mocs students, you will be receiving an email this week about the Student Experience Survey. This survey is administered to all students across the UT System to learn about your current needs, well-being and preferences, and we need everyone’s help in completing the five-minute questionnaire. Click here to go to the survey. Student feedback informs us about the Mocs experience and helps identify opportunities for the future. Students are encouraged to complete the survey by Friday, Nov. 6.
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The Public Service Award is a $1,000 scholarship awarded by the UTC Alumni Board of Directors and the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. Two undergraduate students displaying the most distinguished service to the UTC campus as well as the Chattanooga community will each receive a $1,000 scholarship.
University service includes totally voluntary positions (campus committees, student orientation groups, Greek memberships, etc.) or positions which are accompanied by a stipend (student government association positions, admissions and recruiting work, publication staffs, etc.). Community public service can include such involvement as volunteer work in hospitals, counseling, tutoring, environmental services, or any service that is not paid and does not receive academic credit.
The award is presented during half time of the Homecoming game and there are no restrictions on the way the financial award is used. Receiving this award may impact other scholarship monies.
The annual award is given to a UTC undergraduate student who:
Is carrying a full semester load of a minimum of 12 hours.
Has a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
Has not previously received the UTC Public Service Award
Submits a letter of reference (from faculty, administrator, and/or volunteer organizational advisor)
Click here to apply. The application deadline is Monday, Oct. 19.
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WUTC’s Fall Fund Drive runs through Sunday, Oct. 11. A public service of the University, WUTC is home to NPR programming in our area; local hosts Ray Bassett, Haley Solomon, Paul Jorgensen and Clark Gibson; and learning opportunities for students on the UTC campus.
WUTC’s funding comes 100% from listeners like you here in Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley. Please support WUTC at wutc.org and click the Donate button.
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Check out the Advancement team showing off their Mocs spirit on a recent Gold Friday. Remember to wear your gold every Friday and help turn campus UTC gold.
We want to see your Gold Fridays photos—whether it’s a group shot with your department or classmates, or a solo photo showing your Mocs pride. Faculty, staff and students are all encouraged to participate. Click here submit your Gold Fridays photo and learn more about the tradition.
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The 2026 UT Administrative Professionals Summit (APS) will take place Wednesday, Nov. 11, through Friday, Nov. 13, at the Knoxville Convention Center. APS is a professional development conference designed for administrative professionals from UT and across industries to learn, connect and grow.
This year’s theme, “Learn! Lead! Excel!,” encourages attendees to embrace lifelong learning, lead from where they are and excel in their work. Through practical sessions, expert insights and peer networking, participants will gain skills, strategies and confidence for today’s evolving workplace.
Registration is $250 for UT employees using the case-sensitive code UTEmployee at checkout and $400 for non-UT employees. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 28. Click here to register.
Student Success Programs is looking to add mentors to its roster.
UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement.
Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions. Additional information will be shared with those who express interest.
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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions will feature 16 graduate students competing in the Three Minute Thesis Competition and 19 undergraduate students competing in the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition in the University Center Auditorium. The program will also include speakers, People’s Choice Award audience participation and more. Click here to view the schedule of events.
Paid summer research opportunities: Encourage undergraduate students to apply for paid Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. Funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and other organizations, REUs typically offer eight to 10 weeks of hands-on summer research along with a stipend, housing and travel allowances, and professional development. Click here to learn more.
Summer research and study abroad: Undergraduate students can explore summer research opportunities in the United Kingdom, Thailand, Croatia, Hungary and other locations. Funding is available to help offset program costs. Click here to learn more and apply.
Summer Business Research Internship in Vietnam: Undergraduate students can complete research internships in Ho Chi Minh City through a program presented by the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, Office for URaCE and Center for Global Education. Click here to learn more.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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Faculty and staff are invited to participate in the UT Wellness: Know How, Know Now Challenge through Saturday, Oct. 10. Complete three self-paced K@TE trainings on mental health warning signs, opioid overdose response and suicide prevention while helping UTC compete for the highest employee participation rate across the UT System.
Employees who complete all three trainings will receive a digital certificate and be entered into a drawing for one of 10 $50 gift cards and UT Wellness blankets. The opioid overdose response training was created with the help of UTC’s Kat James, and the suicide prevention training was developed with input from Amy Kyriakidis, both from the Center for Wellbeing. Click here to join the challenge.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are returning to Chattanooga on Friday, Jan. 29, at McKenzie Arena. The show will feature basketball skills, trick shots, laughs and family-friendly entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets.
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Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.
Thinking about earning an advanced degree? UTC employees can take advantage of the University’s education benefit to pursue programs like UTC’s M.S. in Computer Science, a program specifically designed to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, including healthcare, psychology, linguistics, and other non-technical fields. The program provides a pathway for career changers and lifelong learners looking to build new skills and expand future opportunities
The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.
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The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
Chancellor Lori Bruce
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Governor’s Conference (GovCon) brought together employers, local and state officials and key stakeholders last week at the Chattanooga Convention Center to discuss the future of workforce development in Tennessee.
UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce welcomed economic and workforce developers, community leaders and industry partners to Chattanooga and thanked elected officials for their leadership at the Commissioner’s Luncheon.
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Dr. Bradley Harris
What does a chemical engineer do? How can a student prepare for medical or pharmacy school? Where can students find people and resources to help answer those questions? Dr. Bradley Harris, head of UTC’s Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, is helping students begin those conversations through A Moc’s First Year, a campuswide program designed to help incoming first-time, full-time undergraduates make connections to UTC, Chattanooga and one another.
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Chloe Mondido
Every summer, many undergraduate students at UTC have the opportunity to dive deeper into research and explore new learning experiences. The National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program makes some of these opportunities possible by funding students to spend the summer collaborating on research projects at institutions across the country.
UTC junior Chloe Mondido is majoring in mechatronics and is a Brock Scholar in the UTC Honors College. The Flintstone, Georgia, native spent 10 weeks participating in an REU program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she worked on developing flexible temperature sensors.
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UTC’s acquisition of the Doctors Building in 2000 marked an important moment in the growth of campus. Located at the southwest corner of McCallie Avenue and Palmetto Street, the real estate purchase marked the University’s first expansion south across McCallie Avenue.
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Here are some other recent UTC stories featured in the Newsroom:
Through the Driving Action Through Analytics and Analysis (DATAA) internship program, UTC students are working with Chattanooga organizations to organize and manage data to “strengthen programs, measure impact, evaluate outcomes and improve quality of life across the Chattanooga region.”
A lawyer, a software developer, and a mechanic walk into a bar. You’re waiting for the punch line because it sounds like a joke. But the “bar” is in an airport, and all three work for the same airline. One handles contracts and regulations, one writes code, and one keeps airplanes running. Different jobs. Same industry.
WUTC
A performance at Hi-Fi Clyde’s in Chattanooga during IBMA World of Bluegrass in 2025.
WUTC’s Clark Gibson talked with Paul Schminger, interim executive director of the International Bluegrass Music Association, and Donna Elle Harrison of Chattanooga Tourism Co. about the upcoming return of IBMA’s World of Bluegrass to Chattanooga for its second year.
IN Memoriam
The UTC community mourns the passing of former professor Ziad Keilany, who joined the University in 1968 as an associate professor of economics and later served as department head. A beloved teacher known for making economics engaging and memorable, he was awarded the Guerry Professorship in 1974. Keilany retired from his full-time UTC role in 2015. His enduring impact continues through the Professor Ziad Keilany Endowed Scholarship in Economics, established in 2016 to support future students and alumni today. Click here for the full obituary, including information on arrangements.
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This section is reserved for memorial announcements of current and former UTC employees as the Office of Communications and Marketing becomes aware. To publish an announcement, a publicly available obituary must be provided. Please send any announcements to Vice Chancellor JAy Blackman at jay-blackman@utc.edu.
UTC to Celebrate Dolly Day on 9/25
On Friday, Sept. 25, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga will celebrate one of Tennessee’s most recognizable icons with “Dolly Day,” a collection of activities highlighting Parton’s influence on literacy, service, entertainment, entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
And, appropriately enough, her famous “9 to 5” will be part of the celebration.
“Dolly Parton’s impact reaches across generations, and Dolly Day gives our UTC community a fun and meaningful way to celebrate that legacy,” said UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce. “Whether we are reading with elementary school students, learning from Dolly’s remarkable success as a businesswoman or stepping in front of a green screen to imagine our own future 9-to-5, this day brings together our students, faculty, staff, alumni and retirees around literacy, service, creativity and community.”
Continuing Support to Literacy and Service
The College of Health, Education and Professional Studies and the College of Nursing are partnering with Tommie F. Brown Academy for a special Dolly Day focused on literacy, service and intergenerational engagement. Approximately 250 Tommie F. Brown students will have opportunities to interact with UTC retirees, students, alumni, faculty and staff throughout the day.
Organizers are intentionally bringing together multiple generations of the UTC community. The goal is not only to support literacy and service but also to strengthen UTC’s relationship with Tommie F. Brown Academy through the kind of community engagement Parton championed throughout her career.
Back on campus, Dolly’s “9 to 5” will take center stage.
9, 2, 5 … Action!
The Arts-Based Collaborative at UTC will celebrate Parton’s life through music and theatre with an interactive “9, 2, 5 … Action!” event from 10 a.m.-noon on the third floor of the UTC Library outside the Studio and in the Video Suite.
Attendees can step in front of a green screen to act out their future 9-to-5, put on their dancing shoes and sing along to Parton’s music. Those who want to take the experience a step further can have their session recorded as part of a “9 to 5” music video.
The Library That Dolly Built
The UTC Library will host a screening of “The Library That Dolly Built,” a feature-length documentary exploring the history, impact and future of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the global book-gifting program she founded. Featuring guest narrator, actress and author Danica McKellar, along with the music of Dolly Parton, the film will be shown from 2-4 p.m. in UTC Library Room 131, the library’s theater. Popcorn will be available for attendees.
From 9/25 to “9 to 5”
The Department of Political Science and Public Service will host a screening of the 1980 film “9 to 5” at—you guessed it—5 p.m. in Derthick Hall Room 201.
The screening will be followed by a brief discussion of Parton’s impact today, along with trivia, music and a costume contest. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new children’s book or canned food item to donate.
The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will also use “9 to 5” to put a business-school spin on the celebration.
In the morning in Fletcher Hall, students, faculty and staff can participate in a “What Can Business Students Learn From Dolly?” activity, sharing lessons from Parton’s career in areas such as branding, entrepreneurship, leadership, authenticity and philanthropy.
While “9 to 5” plays nearby, students can take part in an “HR Violation Challenge,” identifying questionable workplace and human resources practices depicted in the movie. Participants can enter to win a Rollins College of Business/Dolly-inspired gift basket, with Dolly-themed treats and giveaways also available.
For UTC, the 9/25 connection provides a fun reason to celebrate Parton and “9 to 5,” while also highlighting the broader impact of a Tennessee icon whose influence reaches far beyond entertainment. Through books and business, movies and music, service and philanthropy, Dolly Day will give the UTC community a chance to celebrate the many ways Parton has used her career to make a difference.
And what better day to do it than 9/25?
Dolly Day on Campus: Schedule of Events
9 a.m.-11 a.m.: “What Can Business Students Learn From Dolly?” and “HR Violation Challenge” | Fletcher Hall
10 a.m.-noon: “9, 2, 5 … Action!” | UTC Library, third floor outside the Studio and in the Video Suite
2-4 p.m.: “The Library That Dolly Built” documentary screening | UTC Library Room 131
5 p.m.: “9 to 5” film screening, discussion, trivia, music and costume contest | Derthick Hall Room 201
September 29-October 5, 2026
Updates and news for the week of September 29-October 5, 2026
The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.
Complete the “Know How, Know Now” Wellness Challenge by Oct. 10
Amy Kyriakidis
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and UTC faculty and staff can learn how to recognize possible signs of suicide risk, start a caring conversation and connect students or colleagues with help through a new online training created by Amy Kyriakidis, assistant director for suicide education and prevention in the Center for Wellbeing.
The self-paced K@TE course, “Suicide Prevention: Spot the Signs and Start the Conversation,” is part of the UT System’s “Know How, Know Now” wellness training series. The “Know How, Know Now” Challenge runs through Saturday, Oct. 10. Employees who complete all three trainings in the series earn a digital certificate and are entered into one of 10 systemwide drawings for a $50 gift card and a UT Wellness blanket.
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GIVE ON MOCS GIVE DAY
Mocs Give Day returns on Tuesday, Oct. 6, bringing the UTC community together for a 24-hour online giving challenge in support of current and future Mocs. Alumni, students, faculty, staff, families and friends can make an impact through gifts that strengthen scholarships, programs and opportunities across campus. Every gift tells a story, and every gift helps shape the future of UTC. Learn more at mocsgiveday.utc.edu.
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Remembering Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear
The Obear family invites the UTC community to come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear. A Celebration of Life Reception will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center. Those unable to attend who would like to share a remembrance of Dr. Obear with the family can do so through this link.
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Register for Homecoming events
Homecoming 2026, MOCS2K, will take place Saturday, Oct. 31, through Saturday, Nov. 7. Students and campus departments can get involved through several upcoming opportunities.
Submit a Homecoming event: Campus departments are invited to submit events that connect to the Homecoming theme and complement activities planned throughout the week. The final submission deadline is Friday, Oct. 9, for inclusion on the online calendar. Click here to learn more, view the current schedule and submit an event.
Apply for Homecoming Court: Students who have demonstrated academic excellence and involvement on campus and in the Chattanooga community are invited to apply for the 2026 Homecoming Court. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. Click here to apply on MocSync.
Register for Homecoming Lip Sync: Student organizations and groups of UTC students can register for the MOCS2K Lip Sync Competition, taking place Wednesday, Nov. 4. Teams must have at least five members. Registration is due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. Click here to register on MocSync.
For questions about Homecoming Court or Lip Sync, contact Kidron Bullock. For questions about submitting a Homecoming event, contact engage@utc.edu.
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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
It is time to recruit campus partners to send information for the UTC Parent and Family Association newsletter, a monthly roundup distributed to more than 5,400 parents and family members.
To share information with the families of UTC students—including upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30. The September newsletter will be emailed to members on Wednesday, October. 7.
Please keep submissions to one paragraph of 200 (or fewer) words.
Images or logos to accompany the paragraph may be submitted.
From left: Yasir Hassan, software engineer at the Center for Urban Informatics and Progress (CUIP); Austin Harris, CUIP deputy director and chief technology officer; Dr. Mina Sartipi, interim vice chancellor for research; and Dr. Maged Shoman, research assistant professor at the UT-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute
UTC earned third place and a $150,000 prize in a national U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) competition for an artificial intelligence-powered platform designed to improve transportation safety and efficiency.
UTC’s PRISM: AI-Powered Platform for Real-Time Intelligence in Shared Mobility was one of four projects selected to compete in the finals of the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Infrastructure Ideas and Innovation Challenge on Friday, Sept. 25, at DOT headquarters in Washington. The UTC-led team advanced from an initial field of 448 submissions from across the country.
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Erin Yenawine
UTC alum Erin Yenawine, who graduated in May with degrees in political science and economics, had started working full-time in Chattanooga when she received a surprising email. She was selected as a 2026 Portz Scholar by the National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC).
Yenawine, a Brock Scholar in the UTC Honors College from Hopkinton, Massachusetts, was one of four students selected nationally for the honor. It is the third year in a row—and the third time in University history—that a UTC student has received the award.
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Dr. Jeremy Strickler
A government shutdown, a campfire and the myths that divide us. Dr. Jeremy Strickler’s professional development leave showed that scholarship can move forward when plans change and curiosity leads the way.
Strickler, an associate professor of political science and UTC faculty member since 2016, used his fall 2025 leave to advance research on presidential leadership and U.S. drug control policy, co-author a book chapter about camping, and develop a new course on American political culture.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs Brandon Bouchillon spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about the Department of Communication’s “Common Ground” events. He spoke to them again about media coverage in the White House.
A Times Free Press article previewed Brandon Bouchillon’s “Common Ground” series.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political ScienceSaeid Golkar wrote a piece for Persuasion about politics in Iran.
Mark Your Calendar
Photo credit: Ray Soldano
This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:
Friday, Oct. 2: Men’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Invite/SoCon Play-Off, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Friday, Oct. 2: Women’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Fall Invite, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Saturday, Oct. 3: Men’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Invite/SoCon Play-Off, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Saturday, Oct. 3: Women’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Fall Invite, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Sunday, Oct. 4: Men’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Invite/SoCon Play-Off, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Sunday, Oct. 4: Women’s Tennis UTC Steve Baras Fall Invite, UTC Tennis Center, all day
Sunday, Oct. 4: Soccer vs. Western Carolina, Finley Stadium, 1 p.m.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.
Celebrate 15 years of transatlantic ties between Chattanooga and its sister city, Wolfsburg, Germany, from 2-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30, in the Honors College Guerry Center Reading Room. The event will celebrate the Chattanooga-Wolfsburg Sister City partnership with free food, drinks and activities.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
An eight-week summer 2027 business research internship opportunity in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is available for up to five UTC students.
Thursday, Oct. 1: 1 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon, Fletcher Hall Room 109
Dr. Robert Dooley, dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, will lead the information sessions. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to COBInternational@utc.edu. The application deadline is Sunday, Nov. 1. Click here for more information and to apply.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC during the Spanish Film Festival, featuring free film screenings in the University Center Auditorium.
Thursday, Oct. 1: In the Heights (En un barrio), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Wednesday, Oct. 7: La Suprema, 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Thursday, Oct. 15: Chinese Take-Away (Un cuento chino), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
The Spanish Film Festival is presented by the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and co-sponsored by Latin American Studies, A Moc’s First Year, Life Out Loud, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Film and Television minor, the Department of Communication and the Spanish Club.
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The Department of Chemistry is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series from 3-4 p.m. on Fridays in Grote Hall Room 411. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 2: Dr. Cathy Murphy, University of Illinois
Oct. 16: Bud Lamonica, Cymer LLC
Oct. 23: Dr. Brian Long, UT Knoxville
Oct. 30: Undergraduate Research Program Poster Session and Reception
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The Department of Mathematics’ Math Colloquium Series features a special speaker sharing their work, followed by a Q&A and conversation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in Lupton Hall Room 393.
Friday, Oct. 2: Thien Le
Friday, Oct. 23: Ayça Çetinkaya
Friday, Nov. 13: William Erickson
Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and anyone curious about mathematics are invited to attend, ask questions and connect with the Math community.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Oct. 5: Nyssa Hunt, Interdisciplinary Geospatial Technology Lab, UTC
Oct. 19: Dr. Ryan Fritts, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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Walgreens will offer on-campus flu vaccine clinics for students, faculty and staff during September and October. No appointment is necessary, but appointments are available to streamline the process.
Tuesday, Oct. 6: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., University Center Tennessee Room
Wednesday, Oct. 7: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Chamberlain Field during the Be Well Health Fair (rain location: University Center Tennessee Room)
Bring your current insurance and pharmacy benefits cards. Free vouchers will be available for those without insurance. Click here to schedule an appointment.
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Scrappy’s Market offers free, fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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UTC LIVE! makes its Cadek Hall debut on Tuesday, Oct. 6, with Stundom, a rising Danish folk group making its first American tour. The UTC performance is the first stop on Stundom’s tour. Drawing on Scandinavian dance music and storytelling traditions, the group blends violin, cittern and piano with elements of chamber and symphonic music. Stundom has been nominated multiple times for Danish Music Awards Roots/Folk honors, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year.
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The cast of the UTC Theatre Co.’s “The Revolutionists” includes (clockwise from top left) Mahogany Sales as Marianne Angelle, Gracie Headrick as Marie Antoinette, Cameron Schulz as Charlotte Corday, and Lily Phillips as Olympe de Gouges. Photo courtesy of UTC Theatre Co.
When the world is falling apart, what can—and should—an artist do?
That question drives “The Revolutionists,” Lauren Gunderson’s irreverent comedy about four women who find themselves at the center of the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror. The UTC Theatre Co. will present the production at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6-10, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Oct. 10, in the Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre in the UTC Fine Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Fine Arts Center Box Office, either in person or by phone at 423-425-4269. Tickets are $20 for general admission, plus service fees, and $15 for students (with a valid student ID) and seniors.
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The UTC College of Nursing invites faculty, staff, students, friends, family and community members to its Fall Festival from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, on the lawn of the Metropolitan Building, 518 Oak St.
Enjoy an afternoon of fall festivities, including popcorn, pumpkin painting, crafts, games and a costume contest. Attendees can also learn more about UTC Nursing programs and connect with representatives from local health care organizations, including Erlanger, Siskin, CommonSpirit and the Hamilton County Health Department. Click here to view the full flyer.
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The UTC Quantum Center will host Dr. Wonhee Ko of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, for its upcoming colloquium on Thursday, Oct. 8. Ko will present “Probing Unconventional Superconductivity by Multi-Particle Tunneling Spectroscopy.”
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With the 2027-28 FAFSA opening Oct. 1, students can stop by the Financial Aid Office for free, in-person FAFSA support during FAFSA Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9; Friday, Oct. 23; and Friday, Oct. 30. No appointment is needed.
Staff can help with questions, troubleshooting and figuring out next steps. Virtual FAFSA appointments are also available through the Financial Wellness Center. For more information, click here.
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Registration is open for Mocs in the Mountains Leadership Retreat, a free leadership retreat for UTC students taking place Friday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 18, at Fort Mountain Retreat Center. Students at any level of leadership experience are invited to spend the weekend strengthening their leadership skills, connecting with other Mocs and exploring how they can make an impact at UTC and beyond.
Transportation, lodging and meals are provided at no cost to participants. Space is limited, and registration is required. Click here to register. For questions, contact the Center for Student Leadership, Engagement and Community at engage@utc.edu.
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The Department of Communication has launched “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring trust and community. The series will continue at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall with Robert D. Putnam presenting “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States.
The event is free and open to the public. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speaker can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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Join the Department of Mathematics for a Pumpkin Carving and Course Preview from 3:30-5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, in Engineering and Computer Science Room 422.
Students thinking about their spring courses can meet instructors, learn what they’ll be studying and get a sneak peek at upcoming courses. Math Club, Pi Mu Epsilon and AWM are teaming up for the event, which will also feature pumpkin carving and food.
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The UTC Bookstore, in partnership with UTC Alumni, will host a 2026 graduation celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Mocs Bookstore.
Graduating students can pick up pre-ordered regalia or purchase regalia, have cap and gown photos taken by a photographer, order class rings and announcements, and connect with campus departments for help with graduation needs. Students can also register for door prizes.
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The College of Arts and Sciences invites faculty, staff and students to the AI Symposium on Research and Teaching Across the Humanities and Social Sciences from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, in University Center Room 315.
The symposium will bring together faculty from across the humanities and social sciences to share AI-related research, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The schedule includes:
9:30-10 a.m.: A cross-disciplinary conversation about the new AI Certificate being developed by the College of Arts and Sciences.
10:10-11:45 a.m.: Faculty research presentations from Zachary Simoni, Chandra Ward, Andrew J. Van Slyke, Marcus D. Mauldin and Nagwan R. Zahry.
1:35-2:20 p.m.: Faculty research presentations from Chris Vidmar, Rowan Johnson, Brandon Bouchillon and Jeremy Strickler.
The symposium will also feature guest speaker Hunter Heyck, director of the Center for Creativity and Authenticity in AI Cultural Production at the University of Oklahoma, who will discuss building interdisciplinary research teams and exploring opportunities for external funding.
Click here to register in advance for the in-person panels.
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The UTC Homecoming Parade is back in a new format. On Friday, Nov. 6, community members are invited to line Vine Street to watch the parade, then follow it to Chamberlain Pavilion for a pep rally featuring the UTC Marching Mocs, Spirit Squads, campus leadership and more.
The parade will begin at 5 p.m., and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from vendors on Chamberlain Field. Click here to RSVP to attend, or click here to register to participate in the parade.
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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following students will be presenting their final works of research as advanced degree candidates. Everyone is invited to attend.
Friday, Oct. 2: Edward Steele (Ph.D./Computational Science), Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 3:30 p.m., Calendar
Wednesday, Oct. 7: Elvis Frimpong (Master’s/Mathematics), Lupton Hall Room 302, 3:30 p.m., Calendar
Campus Updates
The Public Service Award is a $1,000 scholarship awarded by the UTC Alumni Board of Directors and the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. Two undergraduate students displaying the most distinguished service to the UTC campus as well as the Chattanooga community will each receive a $1,000 scholarship.
University service includes totally voluntary positions (campus committees, student orientation groups, Greek memberships, etc.) or positions which are accompanied by a stipend (student government association positions, admissions and recruiting work, publication staffs, etc.). Community public service can include such involvement as volunteer work in hospitals, counseling, tutoring, environmental services, or any service that is not paid and does not receive academic credit.
The award is presented during half time of the Homecoming game and there are no restrictions on the way the financial award is used. Receiving this award may impact other scholarship monies.
The annual award is given to a UTC undergraduate student who:
Is carrying a full semester load of a minimum of 12 hours.
Has a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
Has not previously received the UTC Public Service Award
Submits a letter of reference (from faculty, administrator, and/or volunteer organizational advisor)
Click here to apply. The application deadline is Monday, Oct. 19.
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WUTC’s Fall Fund Drive begins Thursday, Oct. 1, and runs through Sunday, Oct. 11.
A public service of the University, WUTC is home to NPR programming in our area; local hosts Ray Bassett, Haley Solomon, Paul Jorgensen and Clark Gibson; and learning opportunities for students on the UTC campus.
WUTC’s funding comes 100% from listeners like you here in Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley. Please support WUTC at wutc.org and click the Donate button.
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UTC will bring the fifth annual Power C Tour to four Tennessee cities this fall, giving prospective students and their families an opportunity to learn about academic programs, admissions, financial aid, housing and campus life.
The Power C Tour is UTC’s statewide outreach effort to connect directly with high school students, transfer students, graduate students and their families in their own communities. At each stop, visitors can meet with representatives from UTC academic colleges and student services, talk with current students and learn more about the opportunities and support available at the University.
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The 1886 Challenge has reached 6,138 volunteer hours toward its goal of 18,860 hours. Members of the Rollins Scholars recently contributed to the total by volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House, where they helped clean and prepare the house to welcome its next group of residents.
The 1886 Challenge calls on faculty, staff and students to collectively contribute 18,860 hours of community service during the 2026-27 academic year. The initiative highlights service already taking place across the University through volunteer work, mentoring, service-learning and outreach.
Faculty, staff and students who have volunteered in the community can submit their hours through the 1886 Challenge form and help move UTC closer to its goal. Submitted photos can also be viewed in the photo gallery at the top of the 1886 Challenge page.
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The College of Health, Education and Professional Studies is showing its Mocs spirit. Ashleigh Pipes, Alexandra Solesbee, Dean Valerie Rutledge, Ashtyn Cornett, Becca McCashin, Elizabeth Crawford, Wesley Odum and Amanda Chambers came together to show off their Gold Fridays attire.
Remember to wear your gold every Friday and help turn campus UTC gold. We want to see your Gold Fridays photos—whether it’s a group shot with your department or classmates, or a solo photo showing your Mocs pride. Faculty, staff and students are all encouraged to participate. Click here to submit your Gold Fridays photo and learn more about the tradition,
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Student Success Programs is looking to add mentors to its roster.
UT Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Tennessee residents at UTC and includes required mentoring and community service. Student Success Programs has received requests from UT Promise students for mentors to help support them during their time at UTC, with students required to meet with a mentor at least once per semester for guidance, questions and goal-focused encouragement.
Faculty and staff can complete the interest form or contact Student Success Programs with questions. Additional information will be shared with those who express interest.
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UTC Athletics has introduced the new Student Access Pass for the 2026-27 academic year. The digital pass gives full-time UTC students admission to all ticketed home football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, wrestling and softball games without claiming a ticket for each event.
The pass can be downloaded through your account at GoMocs.com/Tickets and added to your Apple or Google Wallet for easy entry throughout the season. Click here for more information and FAQs.
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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Sept. 30: Office for URaCE September Student Workshops will cover getting started in undergraduate research, navigating undergraduate research positions and mentors, and identifying and applying for paid summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs). Attendees will receive complimentary URaCE swag and earn a research micro-credential badge. Click here to register.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: The Fall Student Research Pitch Competitions will feature 16 graduate students competing in the Three Minute Thesis Competition and 19 undergraduate students competing in the Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition in the University Center Auditorium. The program will also include speakers, People’s Choice Award audience participation and more. Click here to view the schedule of events.
Paid summer research opportunities: Encourage undergraduate students to apply for paid Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. Funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and other organizations, REUs typically offer eight to 10 weeks of hands-on summer research along with a stipend, housing and travel allowances, and professional development. Click here to learn more.
Summer research and study abroad: Undergraduate students can explore summer research opportunities in the United Kingdom, Thailand, Croatia, Hungary and other locations. Funding is available to help offset program costs. Click here to learn more and apply.
Summer Business Research Internship in Vietnam: Undergraduate students can complete research internships in Ho Chi Minh City through a program presented by the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, Office for URaCE and Center for Global Education. Click here to learn more.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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Enjoy half-price admission to the Tennessee Aquarium and 45-minute documentary films during College Days, through Wednesday, Sept. 30. The discount is available to UTC students, faculty and staff, as well as their friends and family.
Tickets must be purchased onsite. To receive the discount, present a UTC ID, transcript or pay stub at the Aquarium ticketing center. Timed entry is in effect, and wait times may apply. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium’s College Days webpage for pricing, membership discounts and additional information.
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Faculty and staff are invited to participate in the UT Wellness: Know How, Know Now Challenge through Saturday, Oct. 10. Complete three self-paced K@TE trainings on mental health warning signs, opioid overdose response and suicide prevention while helping UTC compete for the highest employee participation rate across the UT System.
Employees who complete all three trainings will receive a digital certificate and be entered into a drawing for one of 10 $50 gift cards and UT Wellness blankets. The opioid overdose response training was created with the help of UTC’s Kat James, and the suicide prevention training was developed with input from Amy Kyriakidis, both from the Center for Wellbeing. Click here to join the challenge.
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For the second year in a row, UTC is hosting Open Source Camp Chattanooga on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at the UTC Library. The two-day event brings together developers, designers, marketers, content editors, project managers and anyone interested in what’s happening on the web.
Friday will feature hands-on workshops in Drupal, WordPress and Laravel, including options for beginners. Saturday will feature a full day of seminars covering topics such as UX and design, accessibility, digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, analytics, AI, project management and more.
UTC students, faculty and staff can attend for free using the code OSCHA2026. Lunch, swag and opportunities to connect with other web-minded folks will also be available. Click here to learn more or register now.
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Thinking about earning an advanced degree? UTC employees can take advantage of the University’s education benefit to pursue programs like UTC’s M.S. in Computer Science, a program specifically designed to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, including healthcare, psychology, linguistics, and other non-technical fields. The program provides a pathway for career changers and lifelong learners looking to build new skills and expand future opportunities
Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.
The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.
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The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
Brian Freeman
Brian Freeman’s 42-year journey toward a degree wasn’t a matter of if, but of when, and he learned that the journey itself matters. Freeman credits UTC’s support for helping him reach his upcoming graduation in December 2026. He has spent the past two semesters working toward it through the Leadership and Learning (LEAP) program.
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Chancellor Lori Bruce spoke at Meigs County High School.
The UT System’s “Find Your Future” high school tour visited four Southeast Tennessee high schools bringing cheers, songs and information about higher education opportunities across the UT System. UT System President Randy Boyd and UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce visited Meigs County High School, McMinn County High School, Polk County High School and Central High School of McMinn County.
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UTC student Brianna Johnson spent her Dolly Day as a volunteer reading books at Tommie F. Brown Academy.
Dolly Parton was an East Tennessee girl before she became a country music icon. “When I was growing up in the hills of East Tennessee, I knew my dreams would come true,” Parton once said.
The date was a nod to one of Parton’s best-known roles in “9 to 5,” with 9/25 offering a chance to recognize her work in music, education, literacy and philanthropy.
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UTC offers many resources to guide students in the right direction to achieve the strongest growth possible. UTC’s Center for Academic Support and Advisement (CASA) is a resource all students can turn to when this shift becomes difficult.
WUTC
Dr. Olivia Bagby, Monica Kinsey and James McKissic
WUTC’s “Scenic Roots,” in collaboration with ArtsBuild, introduces “The Overlap,” a new community podcast exploring the shared skills and materials of trade professionals and fine artists.
The first episode, “Education and Opportunities: The Infrastructure of Imagination,” features Dr. Olivia Bagby, director of Future Ready Students for Hamilton County Schools; James McKissic, president of ArtsBuild; and Monica Kinsey, deputy administrator of arts, culture and creative economy for the City of Chattanooga.
September 22-28, 2026
Updates and news for the week of September 22-28, 2026
The UTC Campus Weekly newsletter is distributed every Tuesday morning. If you have news, events or announcements you would like shared with campus, please submit your information to Peyton Schultz (peyton-l-schultz@utc.edu) in the Division of Communications and Marketing by 3 p.m. on Friday for placement in the following Tuesday’s newsletter.
In her first State of the University address, UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce spoke to faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members about UTC’s 140-year history, recent successes and the momentum that will drive the University forward.Click here to watch the 140th anniversary video.
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SUBMIT EVENTS FOR 2026 HOMECOMING WEEK: MOCS2K
Homecoming 2026, MOCS2K, will take place Saturday, Oct. 31, through Saturday, Nov. 7. Campus departments are invited to submit events that connect to the Homecoming theme and complement activities planned throughout the week.
Priority deadline:Friday, Sept. 25 (eligible for printed marketing materials and the online calendar)
Final deadline:Friday, Oct. 9 (eligible for the online calendar only)
All event submissions will be reviewed by the University Homecoming Committee. Click here to learn more, view the current schedule and submit an event. If you have an idea but need help developing it or finding the best fit in the schedule, contact engage@utc.edu.
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CELEBRATING SERVICE
Carole Geter (right) holds up a “Power C” with Chancellor Lori Bruce.
UTC recognized 183 faculty and staff members for their years of service during the annual Service Awards Luncheon as part of Founder’s Week. The event celebrated employees marking service anniversaries ranging from five to 40 years.
“Thank you for what you do to make our University special and to make the student experience special, to serve our students and to serve each other,” Chancellor Lori Bruce told the honorees.
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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
It is time to recruit campus partners to send information for the UTC Parent and Family Association newsletter, a monthly roundup distributed to more than 5,400 parents and family members.
To share information with the families of UTC students—including upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30. The September newsletter will be emailed to members on Wednesday, October. 7.
Please keep submissions to one paragraph of 200 (or fewer) words.
Images or logos to accompany the paragraph may be submitted.
From left: Joshua Hamblen, Loren Hayes, Shaogang Ren, Serkan Varol and Yingfeng Wang
The Ruth S. Holmberg Grants support faculty members who have demonstrated the potential and ability to function at a higher level of scholarship, engage students in addressing problems of contemporary importance through research efforts, or work with tenured faculty members or the administration in building innovative curricula. Each Holmberg recipient will receive up to $5,000 in funding to support their proposal. The recipients of the Holmberg Grants for 2026-27 are:
Dr. Joshua Hamblen, Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy
Dr. Loren Hayes, Professor, Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science
Dr. Shaogang Ren, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering
Dr. Serkan Varol, Associate Professor, Department of Engineering Management and Technology
Dr. Yingfeng Wang, Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering
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Dr. Ziwei Ma
UTC Associate Professor of Mathematics Ziwei Ma is bringing statistical expertise to a multi-university research project developing wearable technology and artificial intelligence tools to support rehabilitation for people with neurological motor disorders.
Supported by a U.S. National Science Foundation award through its Smart and Connected Health program, the project brings together researchers in engineering, physical therapy and statistics.
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Dr. Nagwan Zahry (left) and Dr. Feng Guo
Dr. Nagwan Zahry of the Department of Communication and Dr. Feng Guo of the Department of Psychology received a UT System Wellness Mini-Grant for their project “From Wellness to Well-Tech: Identifying Gaps in Campus Wellness Support and Opportunities for AI-Enhanced Student Services.” The project will explore how artificial intelligence and strategic communication can improve access to campus wellness resources and strengthen student support.
UTC was also recognized in the inaugural Well-Pitched UT Wellness Mini-Grant Competition. The winning project, “Dialectical Behavior Therapy Group Intervention Program for High-Risk Students at the UT Chattanooga Counseling Center,” supports students experiencing chronic stress or suicidal thoughts. Runner-up honors went to “Cultivating Resilience in Undergraduate Nursing Students,” an initiative designed to strengthen resilience and self-care skills among nursing students.
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Amy Doolittle (left) and Mary Andrews
Two members of the Department of Social Work faculty recently received honors recognizing their professional leadership and service.
Dr. Amy Doolittle, associate professor and MSW program director, was re-elected to the National Association of Social Workers Tennessee Chapter Board of Directors. She was also appointed by Gov. Bill Lee to serve on the Tennessee Board of Social Workers.
Clinical Associate Professor Mary Andrews was appointed to serve on the Regional Health Council on Aging and Disability.
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Check out these Mocs in the news:
Chancellor Lori Bruce wrote an op-ed piece for the Times Free Press about what comes next for UTC after celebrating 140 years.
Local 3 News and News 12 Now covered Chancellor Lori Bruce’s State of the University address and UTC’s birthday celebration. The Times Free Press published a photo gallery of the event.
The Times Free Press and News 12 Now covered Chattanooga Connect, an annual conference hosted by the UTC Research Institute.
Anthropology student Tom Laufenberg spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about his work with UTC’s archaeology team at McCoy Farms on Signal Mountain.
UC Foundation Professor of health and human performance Liz Hathaway joined Jed & JR Mornings to discuss best health practices.
Assistant Professor of Practice in the College of Nursing Savannah Kelley spoke to Jed & JR Mornings about postpartum psychosis.
A Times Free Press story about Chattanooga’s expanding traffic technology included Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Mina Sartipi.
Senior business management student Cadden Bradford was featured by The Echo for receiving national recognition at the Fit Body World Conference in Dallas.
Friday, Sept.25: Volleyball vs. Wofford, Maclellan Gym, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Sept.26: Volleyball vs. Wofford, Maclellan Gym, 5 p.m.
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Discover how computer science and engineering connect to careers across every field at Computer Science and Engineering Discovery Day from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. today (Sept. 22) in the University Center Tennessee Room.
Open to all UTC students, faculty and staff, the event will feature hands-on activities, research demonstrations and innovation showcases highlighting topics such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity and digital technologies. No technical experience is required. Participants can also win prizes.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.
Scrappy’s Market returns, offering free fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Today (Sept. 22)
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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The next Staff Senate meeting will take place from 2-4 p.m. today (Sept. 22) in the University Center Auditorium and via Zoom.
Topics will include campus AI with Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Elizabeth O’Brien, an HR Minute with Associate Vice Chancellor Laure Pou, a campus space panel and a “Campus Conversation” with Director of Space Management Danielle Williams. The meeting will also include updates from the Communications, Curiosity and Employee Relations committees. Click here for more information.
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Installation view of “Reconsidered Recollections,” featuring works displayed in the UTC gallery, including Pam Reeves Macon’s Untitled Batik Tapestry at right.
The Institute of Contemporary Art Chattanooga will host a closing reception for “Reconsidered Recollections” from 4:30-6:30 p.m. today (Sept. 22) at ICA Chattanooga in the Fine Arts Center.
The student-curated exhibition, supervised by Dr. Bart Pushaw, brings works from UTC’s permanent collection back into public view. As part of the closing reception, Natalie Wells will give a special talk on her research into Pam Reeves Macon’s 1970 batik tapestry.
The project is supported by a High-Impact Practices Grant from the Walker Center for Teaching and Learning. The reception is free and open to the public.
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Meet with 48 employers from across the region at the Career Connections Fall Career Fair from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 23, in the University Center Tennessee Room. Employers will be recruiting for current full-time jobs and internship opportunities.
Bring copies of your resume and dress in business professional attire to make a strong impression. Need help preparing? Career Connections can assist with resume reviews, mock interviews and career fair preparation. Students can also schedule an appointment with the Career Closet to receive one free professional outfit.
Click here for more information or to schedule an appointment, or call 423-425-4184.
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Learn about the “Doing Business in Germany” study abroad course for spring 2027 during one of several upcoming virtual information sessions. Open to all UTC students with no prerequisites, the course includes a two-week study trip to Berlin, Wolfsburg and Cologne in May 2027 and is led by Dr. Michael Jones, senior associate dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Walgreens will offer on-campus flu vaccine clinics for students, faculty and staff during September and October. No appointment is necessary, but appointments are available to streamline the process.
Wednesday, Sept. 23: 3-7 p.m., Lupton Hall Commons
Thursday, Sept. 24: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Lupton Hall Commons
Tuesday, Oct. 6: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., University Center Tennessee Room
Wednesday, Oct. 7: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Chamberlain Field during the Be Well Health Fair (rain location: University Center Tennessee Room)
Bring your current insurance and pharmacy benefits cards. Free vouchers will be available for those without insurance. Click here to schedule an appointment.
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Mesha Maren
The 2026 Meacham Writers’ Workshop will take place Wednesday, Sept. 23, through Saturday, Sept. 26, bringing writers, readers and students together for four days of readings, conversations and workshops celebrating Appalachian and Southern literature.
This year’s featured visiting writer and Stove Works Fellow is novelist Mesha Maren, author of “Sugar Run,” “Perpetual West” and “Shae.” Maren will participate in an Appalachian writers panel, visit local public schools and lead a writing workshop at Stove Works on Saturday, Sept. 26.
All Meacham Writers’ Workshop events are free and open to the public. Click here to view the full schedule, including event times and locations.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business invites students to pitch business or product ideas and receive feedback during the Changemaker Challenge—no business plan or prototype required—at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 23, in the Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at UTC during the Spanish Film Festival, featuring five free film screenings in the University Center Auditorium.
Wednesday, Sept. 23: Spider Thieves (Niñas Araña), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Thursday, Oct. 1: In the Heights (En un barrio), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Wednesday, Oct. 7: La Suprema, 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
Thursday, Oct. 15: Chinese Take-Away (Un cuento chino), 6 p.m., University Center Auditorium
The Spanish Film Festival is presented by the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and co-sponsored by Latin American Studies, A Moc’s First Year, Life Out Loud, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Film and Television minor, the Department of Communication and the Spanish Club.
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The Center for Wellbeing is recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month with events and training opportunities throughout September.
Thursday, Sept. 24: QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training will be offered to help participants recognize and respond to someone in crisis.
The Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) training is now available through K@TE. The course helps faculty and staff recognize suicide risk and respond with confidence.
For more information about these events and resources, or to get involved in suicide prevention efforts on campus, contact Amy Kyriakidis.
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Learn about UTC’s graduate programs at the Graduate School Fair from noon-2 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, in the University Center Tennessee Room.
Explore more than 30 graduate programs, connect with faculty and staff, learn about admissions and career opportunities, and enjoy free food, giveaways and application fee waivers. The event is open to anyone interested in advancing their education and career through UTC graduate programs.
Click here for more information and to register. Application fee waivers apply to completed domestic applications submitted through Oct. 11.
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Join the Outdoor Recreation Mapathon from noon-6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, at Outdoor Chattanooga in Coolidge Park and help create the best outdoor recreation map in America. Hosted through a partnership between the UTC Center for Applied Geospatial Data Science, the City of Chattanooga, CARTA, Outdoor Chattanooga and Chattanooga National Park City, the event will feature mapping activities, a Learn to Map station and opportunities to support Chattanooga’s National Park City efforts. No mapping experience is required, and all are welcome.
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The Department of Communication will launch “Common Ground,” a new civic communication series exploring the intersection of trust and community, with events scheduled this fall in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall.
The series will feature nationally recognized scholars whose work has shaped conversations around civic engagement and social infrastructure:
Thursday, Sept. 24: Eric Klinenberg will present “The Power of Social Infrastructure,” examining how shared public spaces—from libraries to parks—can strengthen communities, 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: Robert D. Putnam will present “Rebuilding Social Capital in America,” focusing on the decline and potential renewal of civic life in the United States, 6 p.m.
Both events are free and open to the public. Faculty, students and community members are encouraged to attend. Faculty interested in hosting guest visits or small group discussions with the speakers can contact Brandon Bouchillon for more information.
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Build the professional skills that help you stand out in interviews, internships and the workplace. Join Farnoosh Brock on Friday, Sept. 25, for interactive sessions focused on confidence, communication, networking and leadership.
Come for one session or stay for them all:
11 a.m. – Confidence and the Power of Voice
Noon – Conversation Strategies
1 p.m. – Free lunch
1:30 p.m. – Networking and Relationship Building
2:30 p.m. – Entrepreneurship and Innovative Thinking
Following sessions – One-on-one coaching and mentoring
The event is open to all students, and free lunch will be provided. Click here to reserve your spot on MocSync.
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Your UTC Music Faculty are taking the stage. Enjoy an hour of live music featuring a variety of works performed by members of the UTC Music faculty from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, in the Roland Hayes Concert Hall in the Fine Arts Center. The recital is free and open to all.
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The Department of Chemistry is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series from 3-4 p.m. on Fridays in Grote Hall Room 411. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Sept. 25: Dr. Adam Offenbacher, East Carolina University
Oct. 2: Dr. Cathy Murphy, University of Illinois
Oct. 16: Bud Lamonica, Cymer LLC
Oct. 23: Dr. Brian Long, UT Knoxville
Oct. 30: Undergraduate Research Program Poster Session and Reception
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Celebrate the life and legacy of Dolly Parton with the Department of Political Science and Public Service at 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, in Derthick Hall Room 201.
The free event will feature a screening of “9 to 5,” Dolly-themed trivia, a costume contest, music and snacks. Guests are also invited to honor Dolly’s legacy of philanthropy through optional donations. Organizers hope to raise $740—$9.25 for each year of Dolly’s life—with Dr. Michelle Evans matching the first $250 donated. New children’s books, canned goods and other nonperishable food items will also be collected to support Scrappy’s Cupboard and Dolly-related charitable causes. The event is free and open to all.
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Help support the College of Arts and Sciences Residential College (A&SRC) by volunteering at IRONMAN Chattanooga on Sunday, Sept. 27, at Run Aid Station 1 on Riverfront Parkway between Lindsay and Houston streets, one block from McKenzie Arena.
Click here to register. Select “Run Aid Station 1” and list UTC A&SRC as your group when prompted. For questions, contact Dr. Nikolasa Tejero.
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Celebrate Recovery Month this September with Mocs Recovery and learn how to better support members of the UTC community in recovery by attending Recovery Allyship Training for faculty and staff from 12:15-1:15 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 28. Register through K@TE.
Follow @MocsRecovery on Instagram and share its posts throughout Recovery Month. Click here for more information about Mocs Recovery.
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The Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting its fall 2026 seminar series every Monday from 12:40-1:35 p.m. in Holt Hall Room 229. Events are open to all.
Fall 2026 speakers include:
Sept. 28: Dr. Hope Klug, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 5: Nyssa Hunt, Interdisciplinary Geospatial Technology Lab, UTC
Oct. 19: Dr. Ryan Fritts, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Oct. 26: Dr. Erin McKenney, Applied Ecology, NC State University
Nov. 2: Dr. Jae Park, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nov. 9: Prof. John Tucker, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, UTC
Nov. 16: Ryan Davenport, University of New Hampshire
Nov. 23: Dr. Jane Kenney-Hunt, Department of Biology, Valparaiso University
Nov. 30: Speaker to be announced
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An eight-week summer 2027 business research internship opportunity in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is available for up to five UTC students.
Thursday, Oct. 1: 1 p.m., Fletcher Hall Room 109
Friday, Oct. 9: Noon, Fletcher Hall Room 109
Dr. Robert Dooley, dean of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, will lead the information sessions. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to COBInternational@utc.edu. The application deadline is Sunday, Nov. 1. Click here for more information and to apply.
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Mocs Give Day returns on Tuesday, Oct. 6, bringing the UTC community together for a 24-hour online giving challenge in support of current and future Mocs. Alumni, students, faculty, staff, families and friends can make an impact through gifts that strengthen scholarships, programs and opportunities across campus. Every gift tells a story, and every gift helps shape the future of UTC. Learn more at mocsgiveday.utc.edu.
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The Obear family invites the UTC community to come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Chancellor Emeritus Fred Obear. A Celebration of Life Reception will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, in the Wolford Family Athletic Center. Those unable to attend who would like to share a remembrance of Dr. Obear with the family can do so through this link.
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The UTC Graduate School announced that the following students will be presenting their final works of research as advanced degree candidates. Everyone is invited to attend.
Thursday, Sept. 24: Kaitlin Brown (Master’s/Criminal Justice), UTC Library Room 326, 1 p.m., Calendar
Friday, Oct. 2: Edward Steele (Ph.D./Computational Science), Multidisciplinary Research Building Auditorium, 3:30 p.m., Calendar
The 1886 Challenge is now up to 5,937 volunteer hours, thanks in part to Students in the HEALTH Residential Learning Community, who volunteered with First-Centenary United Methodist Church’s ABIDE Respite Ministry. The group spent time playing games with program participants on Sept. 9.
The 1886 Challenge calls on faculty, staff and students to collectively contribute 18,860 hours of community service during the 2026-27 academic year. The initiative highlights service already taking place across the University through volunteer work, mentoring, service-learning and outreach.
Help us keep the momentum going. If you’ve volunteered in the community, submit your hours through the 1886 Challenge form and help us move closer to our goal of 18,860 hours. You can also view all submitted photos in the photo gallery at the bottom of the 1886 Challenge page.
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Getting to class can be one of the most routine parts of a student’s day, but the hassle of parking, navigating Chattanooga’s heat and long walks across campus can throw that routine off. For students looking to ease these burdens, UTC offers the Mocs Express shuttle as a convenient, safe way to get around campus free of charge.
The shuttle system, run in partnership with the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), has been serving UTC for more than a decade and is free to all students, faculty and staff with a Mocs ID. All Mocs Express buses are ADA accessible.
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UTC Athletics has introduced the new Student Access Pass for the 2026-27 academic year. The digital pass gives full-time UTC students admission to all ticketed home football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, wrestling and softball games without claiming a ticket for each event.
The pass can be downloaded through your account at GoMocs.com/Tickets and added to your Apple or Google Wallet for easy entry throughout the season. Click here for more information and FAQs.
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Make plans to attend the Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor (URaCE) fall welcome events.
Wednesday, Sept. 23; Thursday, Sept. 24; and Wednesday, Sept. 30: Office for URaCE September Student Workshops will cover getting started in undergraduate research, navigating undergraduate research positions and mentors, and identifying and applying for paid summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs). Attendees will receive complimentary URaCE swag and earn a research micro-credential badge. Click here to register.
Paid summer research opportunities: Encourage undergraduate students to apply for paid Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. Funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and other organizations, REUs typically offer eight to 10 weeks of hands-on summer research along with a stipend, housing and travel allowances, and professional development. Click here to learn more.
Summer research and study abroad: Undergraduate students can explore summer research opportunities in the United Kingdom, Thailand, Croatia, Hungary and other locations. Funding is available to help offset program costs. Click here to learn more and apply.
Summer Business Research Internship in Vietnam: Undergraduate students can complete research internships in Ho Chi Minh City through a program presented by the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, Office for URaCE and Center for Global Education. Click here to learn more.
Spring Research and Arts Conference volunteers: The Office for URaCE is recruiting volunteers for the 2027 UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference on Wednesday, April 14, 2027. Click here to express your interest.
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Enjoy half-price admission to the Tennessee Aquarium and 45-minute documentary films during College Days, through Sept. 30. The discount is available to UTC students, faculty and staff, as well as their friends and family.
Tickets must be purchased onsite. To receive the discount, present a UTC ID, transcript or pay stub at the Aquarium ticketing center. Timed entry is in effect, and wait times may apply. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium’s College Days webpage for pricing, membership discounts and additional information.
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Faculty and staff are invited to participate in the UT Wellness: Know How, Know Now Challenge through Saturday, Oct. 10. Complete three self-paced K@TE trainings on mental health warning signs, opioid overdose response and suicide prevention while helping UTC compete for the highest employee participation rate across the UT System.
Employees who complete all three trainings will receive a digital certificate and be entered into a drawing for one of 10 $50 gift cards and UT Wellness blankets. The opioid overdose response training was created with the help of UTC’s Kat James, and the suicide prevention training was developed with input from Amy Kyriakidis, both from the Center for Wellbeing. Click here to join the challenge.
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Student Outreach and Support (SOS) and Scrappy’s Cupboard have moved to University Center Room 302. SOS is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Scrappy’s Cupboard is open from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. to support students throughout the semester.
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Thinking about earning an advanced degree? UTC employees can take advantage of the University’s education benefit to pursue programs like UTC’s M.S. in Computer Science, a program specifically designed to welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds, including healthcare, psychology, linguistics, and other non-technical fields. The program provides a pathway for career changers and lifelong learners looking to build new skills and expand future opportunities
Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.
Want to learn more about the Mosaic Program? The Mosaic team is visiting departments across campus to share program updates, introduce new staff members and answer questions about supporting UTC’s neurodiverse community—all while bringing cookies.
Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.
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Adobe Stock Image
As artificial intelligence becomes a bigger part of day-to-day work across industries, the UTC Center for Professional Education will offer two online programs in September to help working professionals build practical AI skills for different needs and experience levels.
The two offerings are AI Essentials with Prompting, a live online workshop scheduled for Sept. 17, and CompTIA Security AI+ Certification Prep, an eight-week live online course that begins Sept. 19. Together, the programs give learners two entry points into AI-related professional development: one focused on broad workplace fluency, productivity and responsible use, and one designed for cybersecurity professionals working in a threat environment increasingly shaped by AI. Click here for more information or to register.
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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.
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The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
For the first time in UTC history, fireworks lit the sky above campus. As Katy Perry’s “Firework” played in the West Campus Housing Courtyard, the fireworks—launched from Lot 7 beside Maclellan Gym—capped an evening of Founder’s Week festivities that brought together students, alumni and University supporters.
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UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce and Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Mina Sartipi
The third annual Chattanooga Connect conference, hosted by the UTC Research Institute (UTCRI), was held last week. The three-day event brought together transportation, technology, government, research and industry leaders to discuss how to move emerging technologies from promising pilots to broader, real-world deployment.
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UTC students, faculty and staff spread out across the city to take part in United Way of Greater Chattanooga’s Day of Caring.The annual event, United Way’s largest citywide volunteer day, brings together local businesses, nonprofits and community members to work on projects throughout Chattanooga.
This year, UTC volunteers served at numerous locations, including the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer, Chattanooga Area Food Bank, Chattanooga Zoo, City of Chattanooga Department of Parks and Outdoors, and The Momentum Network.
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A newly unveiled portrait of Dr. Tommie F. Brown is displayed near the academy’s front entrance, where students, families and visitors will encounter the legacy of the educator, social worker, civil rights leader and former state representative.
Students and families recently gathered with UTC representatives and community partners for an open house at Tommie F. Brown Academy that brought together a resource fair, a back-to-school celebration and a tribute to the school’s namesake.
WUTC
Karen Shostak (left), Jonathan Susman and Brian Smith
On WUTC’s “The Parkside Podcast,” hosts Brian Smith of the City of Chattanooga’s Parks and Outdoors and Karen Shostak of Hamilton County Parks and Recreation talk with Jonathan Susman, executive director of McKenzie Arena, about where Chattanooga’s parks and music meet. The podcast is produced in collaboration with Ray Bassett of WUTC’s “Scenic Roots.”
IN Memoriam
Dr. Leila Johnston Pratt, longtime Hart professor of economics and professor emeritus, died Wednesday, Sept. 9, at age 77. Pratt devoted 43 years to UTC before retiring in 2017, teaching and influencing an estimated 12,000 students. An accomplished researcher, she published extensively in economics journals and taught courses ranging from econometrics to environmental and sports economics. Pratt earned her Ph.D. from Virginia Tech and remained Professor Emeritus until her passing. Her full obituary is available here.
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This section is reserved for memorial announcements of current and former UTC employees as the Office of Communications and Marketing becomes aware. To publish an announcement, a publicly available obituary must be provided. Please send any announcements to Vice Chancellor JAy Blackman at jay-blackman@utc.edu.
September 15-21, 2026
Updates and news for the week of September 15-21, 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.
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
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
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.
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.”
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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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.
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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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.
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.
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
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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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.
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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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:
Tuesday, Sept. 22
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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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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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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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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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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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 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.
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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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.
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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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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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
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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Have a rock, mineral or fossil you’d like identified? The UTC Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science is hosting free identification nights on Mondays every four weeks from 5-7 p.m. on the first floor of Grote Hall (701 Vine St.).
Visitors should enter through the double doors on the exterior of the building. Free parking is available in Lot 10 after 5 p.m.
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Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.
Want to learn more about the Mosaic Program? The Mosaic team is visiting departments across campus to share program updates, introduce new staff members and answer questions about supporting UTC’s neurodiverse community—all while bringing cookies.
Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.
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Adobe Stock Image
As artificial intelligence becomes a bigger part of day-to-day work across industries, the UTC Center for Professional Education will offer two online programs in September to help working professionals build practical AI skills for different needs and experience levels.
The two offerings are AI Essentials with Prompting, a live online workshop scheduled for Sept. 17, and CompTIA Security AI+ Certification Prep, an eight-week live online course that begins Sept. 19. Together, the programs give learners two entry points into AI-related professional development: one focused on broad workplace fluency, productivity and responsible use, and one designed for cybersecurity professionals working in a threat environment increasingly shaped by AI. Click here for more information or to register.
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The National Science Foundation Noyce Track 2 fellowship project is accepting applications from STEM-degreed professionals to prepare to teach secondary mathematics and science through the Master of Education degree program. Please contact Deborah McAllister or click this link for project details.
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The Counseling Center has partnered with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center to offer extended services on the UTC campus. Parkridge at UTC is open from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and offers individual therapy, group therapy and intensive outpatient services for students, faculty and staff.
The Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center is located off the UC Foundation Apartments courtyard (Suite 5217). To schedule an initial appointment, call 423-468-5213. Students who are already receiving services through the UTC Counseling Center are encouraged to speak with their provider about whether Parkridge at UTC is a good fit for their needs.
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The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Athletics Department announced in April a multi-year extension of its successful apparel partnership with Adidas through BSN SPORTS. An exciting benefit of this renewed partnership is that all University departments and campus organizations can now purchase adidas apparel directly through BSN SPORTS at discounted pricing.
Whether you are outfitting your department, student organization or campus event, BSN SPORTS can help with customized adidas apparel and promotional products. This partnership with Adidas is an option for campus organizations to use, but it is not required. Items purchased through BSN help the athletics program reach benchmarks that unlock additional benefits as part of the agreement.
For assistance with orders or to learn more about available products and pricing, please contact our BSN SPORTS representative, Garrett Ferrel, at 765-652-4052. The athletics department looks forward to expanding the benefits of this partnership across campus while continuing to strengthen the Mocs brand through adidas and BSN SPORTS.
UTC Newsroom
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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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 8-14, 2026
Updates and news for the week of September 8-14, 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.
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.
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
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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Student Access Pass Now Available
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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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 ScienceSaeid Golkar joined RevDem for a podcast about political upheavals and the war in Iran.
Mark Your Calendar
The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.
The 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.
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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.
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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:
Wednesday, Sept. 9
Tuesday, Sept. 22
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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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.
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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.
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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. 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.
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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. 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
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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. 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.
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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.
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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.
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 & 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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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.
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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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 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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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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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.
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.
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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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.
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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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 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. Click here for more information.
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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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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.
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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
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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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.
Want to learn more about the Mosaic Program? The Mosaic team is visiting departments across campus to share program updates, introduce new staff members and answer questions about supporting UTC’s neurodiverse community—all while bringing cookies.
Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.
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Adobe Stock Image
As artificial intelligence becomes a bigger part of day-to-day work across industries, the UTC Center for Professional Education will offer two online programs in September to help working professionals build practical AI skills for different needs and experience levels.
The two offerings are AI Essentials with Prompting, a live online workshop scheduled for Sept. 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.
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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.
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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
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.
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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.
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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.
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Officials from UTC and the Japan-America Society of Tennessee tour UTC’s Research Institute and learn about research conducted on campus.
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
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.
The first week of the UTC 2026-27 school year was a time to get connected on campus. Click herefor the full Flickr gallery.
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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.
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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.
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.
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
Center for Regional Economic Research Director HowardWall
Student Government Association President Zachary Lewis
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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.
Vice Provost for Academic AffairsElizabeth 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 9about 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 ScienceSaeid 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.
Scrappy’s Market returns, offering free fresh produce to students from 2-4 p.m. on Vine Street near Derthick Hall or in the University Center second-floor lobby, depending on weather. Check MocSync for location updates. Fall market dates include:
Wednesday, Sept. 9
Tuesday, Sept. 22
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Tuesday, Nov. 17
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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.
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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.
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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. 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.
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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. 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
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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. 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.
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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.
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 & 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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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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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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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
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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.
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.
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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.
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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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 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. Click here for more information.
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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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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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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.
For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.
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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.
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Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
Need a blood titer? If you do not have documentation of immunity through vaccination, call UTC Health Services at 423-425-2266 to schedule a blood test.
Titers can be billed through insurance or paid out of pocket for $11
Feeling sick? Do not walk into the clinic. Call first to help protect others.
UTC reports that 98% of students on campus have immunity, which serves as a strong shield for the community. Having immunity significantly reduces the chances of getting measles and keeps you from needing to be quarantined for up to 21 days if you are exposed.
Want to learn more about the Mosaic Program? The Mosaic team is visiting departments across campus to share program updates, introduce new staff members and answer questions about supporting UTC’s neurodiverse community—all while bringing cookies.
Departments interested in hosting a Cookies and Conversation session can scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule a visit.
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Adobe Stock Image
As artificial intelligence becomes a bigger part of day-to-day work across industries, the UTC Center for Professional Education will offer two online programs in September to help working professionals build practical AI skills for different needs and experience levels.
The two offerings are AI Essentials with Prompting, a live online workshop scheduled for Sept. 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.
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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.
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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
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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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
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 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.
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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.
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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.
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
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Student Access Pass Now Available
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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Measles: What you need to know
Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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 ScienceSaeid 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.
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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The Gary W. Rollins College of Business will hold virtual information sessions forthe Master of Business Administration, MS Management, MS Data Analytics, Business Analytics Certificate, and Master of Accountancygraduate programs. The Rollins College of Business graduate programs provide flexible course options and exclusive career support resources to elevate your education and advance your career.
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.
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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. 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.
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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.
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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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:
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.
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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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
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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.
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.
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.
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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 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. Click here for more information.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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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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.
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.
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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 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.
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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.
For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.
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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.
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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.
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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. 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.
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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.
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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 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.
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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.
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 contactKevin Fordto 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.
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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.
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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
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.
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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.
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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.
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
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.
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.
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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.
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Measles: What you need to know
Measles is highly contagious—even more so than COVID-19. To ensure campus is healthy, it is vital that you know your immune status by verifying your vaccination records or laboratory proof of immunity.
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.
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
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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.
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SEND IN YOUR INFORMATION FOR THE UTC PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
It is time to recruit campus partners to send information for the UTC Parent and Family Association newsletter, a monthly roundup distributed to more than 5,400 parents and family members.
To share information with the families of UTC students—including upcoming events, important deadlines, helpful suggestions and departmental news—email Hannah Turcotte by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, 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.
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.”
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 HowardWall discussed his research on electricity affordability in Tennessee for the Times Free Press.
UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political ScienceSaeid Golkar spoke to CNN and The Wall Street Journal about the U.S. conflict with Iran.
Sunday, Aug.23: Soccer vs. Austin Peay, Finley Stadium, 1 p.m.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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. 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.
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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.
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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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
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 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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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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.
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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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.
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.
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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 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.
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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.
For registration, conference information and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.utc.edu/cc or email utcri@utc.edu.
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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.
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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.
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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. 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.
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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.
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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 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.
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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.
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 contactKevin Fordto 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.
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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.
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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
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.
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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.
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.
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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.”
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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.
