February 24-March 2, 2026

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

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

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

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Highlights

Homecoming 2026 Set for Nov. 7

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

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

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

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

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Measles vs. the Mocs: What You Need to Know

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

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

Take action today:

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

Click here for more information.

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Mocs Wrestling Wins 18th SoCon Regular Season Title

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

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

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FIRESIDE CHAT WITH DR. MATHEW KNOWLES

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

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

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

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

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

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

Outstanding People of UTC

Dr. Erin Ryan

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

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

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Check out these Mocs making news:

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

Mark Your Calendar

Photo credit: Ray Soldano/GoMocs.com

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Turtle Island Quartet

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

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

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

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Dr. Saeid Golkar

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

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

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

Upcoming webinar dates:

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

Click here for Zoom links, passwords and additional details.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming selections and presenters include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Campus Updates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional ways to participate include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All ceremonies will be combined undergraduate and graduate ceremonies.

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

UTC Newsroom

Cadek Hall

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

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

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Dr. Sean Richards

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

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Dr. Brandon Bouchillon

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

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

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

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

WUTC

Bella Lam and Paul Jorgensen

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

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