February 25-March 3, 2025

Updates and news for the week of February 25-March 3, 2025

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-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

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Highlights

ROLLINS COLLEGE OF BUSINESS EXPANSION GROUNDBREAKING TO TAKE PLACE MONDAY

The campus community is invited to attend the ceremonial groundbreaking for the Gary W. Rollins College of Business expansion at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 3, at the Rollins College of Business courtyard near the corner of Douglas and Oak streets. Register to attend here.

This project will nearly double the size of the Rollins College of Business, providing spaces that support teaching, research and student engagement.

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“BRIGHT STAR” MUSICAL COMES TO UTC THEATRE CO. STAGE

Steve Martin and Edie Brickell’s “Bright Star,” a heartfelt story of love, loss and redemption set against the bluegrass-rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and 1940s, takes the stage this week at the UTC Fine Arts Center’s Dorothy Hackett Ward Theatre. Performed by the UTC Theatre Co., “Bright Star” runs at 7:30 p.m. from Feb. 25-March 1—with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, March 1.

Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here and through the UTC Box Office—in person or by phone (423-425-4369). Tickets are $25 for general admission and $20 for students (with proof of student ID) and seniors.

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SCIENCE ON TAP RETURNS

Science on Tap returns in March with Dr. Amy Brock-Hon and “Mocs Underground: Advancing Research and Experiential Learning at Raccoon Mountain Caverns.”

Join the discussion from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11, at the Tap House in St. Elmo. Brock-Hon, the Robert Lake Wilson Professor of Geology at UTC, will take Science on Tap participants inside the research and learning opportunities at Raccoon Mountain Caverns, a newly gifted site to UTC.

She’ll explain how studies in the cave may advance understanding of complex karst systems and the unique cave environment. Brock-Hon also will discuss the value of cave research for the community—beyond just UTC students and faculty—and take your questions.

Enjoy free snacks and appetizers, with local brews and other beverages available for purchase at happy hour prices. Additional 10% discount for military, first responders and students with ID. Register here. 

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UTC HONORS 91 INDIVIDUALS AT BLUE AND GOLD MEMORIAL

UTC honored 91 individuals whose lives impacted the University during the annual Blue and Gold Memorial service, which took place Monday night at the Wolford Family Athletics Center. The memorial service was streamed via Vimeo.

Outstanding People of UTC

Sam Blevins (left) and Mike Andrews at the 2024-25 American Advertising Awards ceremony.

Sam Blevins (left) and Mike Andrews at the 2024-25 American Advertising Awards ceremony.

The UTC Division of Communications and Marketing took home a Bronze Honorable Mention at the 2024-25 American Advertising Awards, hosted by the American Advertising Federation Chattanooga. Click here to watch the award-winning video.

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AJ Galluzzi

AJ Galluzzi

Senior AJ Galluzzi has been awarded a prestigious Public Policy and International Affairs Junior Summer Institute Fellowship, earning a spot in the highly competitive program at the University of Michigan’s Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. Galluzzi, a double major in economics and finance and a member of the Innovations in Honors program, is one of 24 students nationwide selected for the Michigan cohort.

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Check out these Mocs in the news:

  • Mike Bradshaw, director of UTC’s Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, sat down for a Times Free Press feature about his life story and words of wisdom.
  • UTC Center for Regional Economic Research Professor Howard Wall spoke to the Times Free Press about manufacturing strength in Chattanooga and what it means for the economy. In a different Times Free Press article, Wall discussed increasing costs for Chattanooga companies.

Mark Your Calendar

Gianna Corbitt (photo credit: Emma McCarter/GoMocs.com)

Gianna Corbitt (photo credit: Emma McCarter/GoMocs.com)

This week’s Mocs home athletics calendar:

  • Thursday, Feb. 27: Women’s basketball vs. Furman, McKenzie Arena, 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, March 1: Women’s tennis vs. Tennessee State, UTC Tennis Center, 1:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, March 1: Women’s basketball vs. Wofford, McKenzie Arena, 2 p.m.

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The Center for Wellbeing is offering a monthly line-up of trainings 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@utc.edu with questions or to request a training.

  • Today (Feb. 25): Opioid Overdose Response and Naloxone, University Center 350, noon-1 p.m.
  • Thursday, Feb. 27: Psychological First Aid, University Center 350, noon-1 p.m.

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The College of Arts and Sciences hosts Rev. Faith Fowler, author of “Tiny Homes in a Big City,” at 3 p.m. today (Feb. 25) in the Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Auditorium. A leading advocate for the homeless in Detroit, Fowler serves as the executive director of Cass Community Social Services, where she has developed innovative programs to provide housing, food and support services. She will discuss her latest initiative, the Tiny Homes Project, which helps low-income residents achieve home ownership.

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“Winter blues” and the “mid-term slump” are real. Both combined can really take a toll on your well-being. Join the Graduate School from 5:30-7 p.m. today (Feb. 25) in Lupton Hall Room 389 to discuss the challenges facing grad students this time of the year. Pause, de-stress and recharge while exploring strategies that will help build resilience and foster long-term wellness.

This workshop, sponsored by the UTC Counseling Center, offers a casual laid-back environment with free pizza and drinks to connect with fellow grad students and build a supportive community.

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Off-Campus Student Services (OCSS), a new office in the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs dedicated to improving and supporting off-campus living and building partnerships with local properties, is hosting a Housing Fair from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 26, in the UC Tennessee Room.

Featuring over 55 local housing options as well as many on-campus partners, the fair aims to bring together all of the resources and information students need to successfully navigate and secure off-campus housing. Add in free food, giveaways and prizes, and students who are considering off-campus housing have no excuse for missing this great event. Reach out to OCSS Coordinator Dean Topodas at ocss@utc.edu  with any questions.

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Join Student Success Programs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 26, in the Lupton Hall Lobby for the third annual Composition Program’s Writing Showcase featuring projects using this year’s Read to Achieve text, “Waste: One Woman’s Fight Against America’s Dirty Secret,” by Catherine Coleman Flowers. Students from English 1010, 1011 and 1020 classes create projects using the Read to Achieve text and show off their knowledge and skills in the Writing Showcase.

Student attendees vote for students’ choice awards. Check out awesome projects, support our students and the Read to Achieve program, and grab a refreshment.

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The “Pizza and Preparation: Your Career Fair Success Guide” workshop will take place from 12:30-1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26, in Fletcher Hall Room 210.

Join the Gary W. Rollins College of Business for free pizza while getting expert advice on resumes, elevator pitches, professional attire, business cards and networking strategies to help you succeed at the career fair. Register now by scanning the QR code or emailing Megan-Cales@utc.edu to secure your spot.

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Join Nobel Laureate Vernon Smith and etiquette expert Candace Smith from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, in the Wolford Family Athletics Center for a networking lunch-and-learn, hosted by the Probasco Chair, exploring how economics and etiquette shape a civil society. Gain insights on fostering collaboration, building connections, and enhancing personal and professional success. RSVP here.

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Students Providing Aid invites you to a bake sale from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, in the University Center Lobby.

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The Student Government Association and Mocs Recovery are hosting a session from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, in the University Center Raccoon Mountain Room to educate the campus community on substance use harm reduction practices. It will provide suggestions for lower-risk drinking and training on using naloxone—the opioid overdose reversal medication.

The presentation will include why this information is important in Hamilton County and among college students. The educational information highlights harm reduction and providing resources to keep people safe and alive. Food will be provided. Free fentanyl and xylazine test strips and naloxone will be provided by Mocs Recovery and the Center for Wellbeing.

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Join WUTC for a casual morning coffee and connect with the voices behind your favorite WUTC-FM 88.1 shows. Meet the hosts, staff and fellow listeners from 8:30-10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, at Be Caffeinated coffee shop on the North Shore. We’ll be gathering on the cozy enclosed patio and everyone is welcome—no RSVP or cost required. Don’t miss this chance to mingle, chat and get to know the WUTC team.

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The Department of Chemistry and Physics continues its spring semester seminar series with “Exploring a Career in Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry,” a panel discussion from the UT Health Science Center’s Department of Pharmacy. The event will take place from 3:30-4:15 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28, in Grote Hall Room 411.

The panel will explore career options with a graduate pharmacy degree, including research in medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences, as well as the Ph.D. application process at UTHSC. A dual-degree student will also share her experience in the program.

Panelists include:

  • Dr. Hassan Almoazen, director, Ph.D. program in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences
  • Dr. Kirk Hevener, associate professor, medicinal chemistry
  • Dr. Kristiana Avad, Pharm.D./Ph.D. candidate

For more information about UTHSC Pharmacy visit this link. For event details, click here.

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Attend a Star Party on Sunday, March 2, at UTC’s Clarence T. Jones Observatory. The public is invited to attend this free event.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m., with the lecture and planetarium show beginning at 6 p.m. and rotating every half hour. A telescope viewing will be available until 8 p.m., featuring Chattanooga’s historic 20.5-inch telescope. The topic of the night is “The Hill Sphere” by Observatory Director John Hart.

Seating is limited, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early. The Clarence T. Jones Observatory is located at 10 N. Tuxedo Ave.

For more information, visit the Observatory webpage.

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Business students, don’t miss this opportunity to connect with top employers at the Spring Business Career Fair. Join from 9 a.m.-noon on Monday, March 3, on the second and fourth floors of Fletcher Hall to explore career opportunities, internships and networking prospects.

No registration is required, just dress professionally, bring copies of your resume and be ready to make valuable connections. Hosted by the Joseph F. Decosimo Success Center, this event is your chance to take the next step toward your professional future.

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The Department of Music will host a Music Faculty Showcase Recital at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 3, in the Fine Arts Center’s Roland Hayes Concert Hall. The free event, open to all UTC students, faculty and staff and members of the community, showcases some of the newer music department faculty.

Scheduled performers include:

  • Ethan McDaniel (lecturer), percussion
  • Brenna Wiinanen (adjunct faculty), flute
  • Sean Fredenburg (lecturer), alto saxophone
  • Emily Barr (visiting professor), piano
  • Kaitlyn Vest (adjunct instructor), cello
  • Taylor Brown (adjunct instructor), double bass

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The UT System is launching the “Well Informed: UT System Hybrid Wellness Series” from 9 a.m.-1:45 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, with its first session focused on the impact of opioids on our campuses and how we can work together to prevent substance misuse and promote well-being.

This event features a keynote from Dr. Stephen Loyd, insights from UT System President Randy Boyd and interactive Narcan training. It’s an important opportunity to equip faculty, staff and students with the knowledge and resources to address opioid use and create a healthier campus community. Join us in person at UTC, live online or register to watch later. Click here to learn more.

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In conjunction with Mocs Dining, Scrappy’s Markets are returning for the spring 2025 term. Please join us to receive 10 free fresh produce items during each event. Open to all faculty, staff and students. All markets are held in the University Center from 2-4 p.m., with the next one taking place on Tuesday, March 4. Markets will also be held March 19, April 1 and April 14.

Please consider donating to Scrappy’s Cupboard food pantry this semester. We have seen an increase in use and need donations to continue to support our community. We accept all non-perishable, unopened, unexpired food and personal care items. Donations can be dropped off from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday in UC Room 399.

Scrappy’s Cupboard is most in need of can openers, canned/boxed milk and milk alternatives, toilet paper, paper towels, sports drinks, cooking oils, canned fruit, canned meats, rice, breakfast bars and instant mashed potatoes. We also accept clothing items and are in need of gloves, hats, scarves and lightly used winter coats. Donate via our Amazon Wishlist or financially online. If your group would like to host a food drive, please reach out to scrappyscupboard@utc.edu.

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Sponsored by the George C. Connor Professorship of American Literature and the UTC Department of English, the Take Five 2025 lineup explores what it means to be educated in the modern world.

Take Five sessions occur Tuesday nights at 6 p.m. in the University Center Tennessee Room. Each session will offer a light dinner, and no RSVP is necessary. Upcoming spring dates:

All books are available through online retailers and at the UTC Bookstore (423-425-4107). Contact Aaron-Shaheen@utc.edu with questions.

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The Office of Multicultural Affairs book club will be reading Chamique Holdsclaw’s book, “Breaking Through: Beating the Odds Shot after Shot,” at its next meeting on Tuesday, March 4. Anyone who has a copy of the book is welcome to join.

Book club meetings will also be held on March 18 and April 2. There are a limited number of books available for students. Sign up here.

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Come by the Center for Wellbeing from noon-2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 5, in the University Center Room 350 to design your own wellness essentials kit and get prepared for a safer spring break.

Pick up free items including naloxone, fentanyl test strips, safer sex supplies, sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat, electrolyte replacers, aloe and SPF lip balm.

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Throughout your undergraduate and graduate academic career, you’ve gained a wealth of valuable skills and experiences—but how do they translate into landing your dream job?

Join the Graduate School and Career Connections from noon-1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 5, via Zoom for an engaging workshop where we’ll explore how to showcase your college experiences in ways that captivate employers and boost your chances of getting hired.

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The next Quantum Journal Club will take place at 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, in the Math Department Conference Room (Lupton Hall Room 308).
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Students, what events do you want to see on campus? Help shape our student programs and events by completing this quick survey. Your feedback will help us in providing the best experiences for the 2025-2026 academic year. The survey will close at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 7.

The first 1,000 students to participate will receive one of the following UTC branded giveaway items: 40-ounce cup with straw, mini umbrella, UTC Croc charms (two per student) or a UTC blanket.  Check your student email after the survey closes for confirmation and giveaway pickup details.

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Join the Master of Public Health program for Nourishing Minds in Research Bites from 1-2 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, in the Metropolitan Building Room 306. The event, sponsored by Cengage Learning and the HHP Department, will feature presentations by MPH students Emily Holden and Brittany Rogers and faculty member Marissa McElrone. Food and beverages will be provided.

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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

Every year, National Eating Disorders Awareness (NEDA) Week serves as a crucial time to shed light on the realities of eating disorders, challenge misconceptions and promote recovery. On college campuses, where students face academic pressures, social expectations and body image struggles, raising awareness is more important than ever.

Eating disorders affect people of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, age or appearance. They are serious mental health conditions that require understanding, compassion and access to proper support. This NEDA Week, our campus is coming together to spread knowledge, encourage body positivity and provide resources for those in need. Here are some tips for college students during NEDA Week:

  • Educate yourself and others: Learn the facts about eating disorders, their signs and their impact. Share resources and challenge myths to help reduce stigma.
  • Promote body positivity: Celebrate all body types and avoid negative body talk. Compliment people on their character and achievements rather than appearance.
  • Be mindful of language: Avoid comments about weight, diet or exercise that could be triggering. Instead, focus on promoting overall well-being.
  • Check in on friends: If you notice someone struggling with food, exercise or self-image, offer support and encourage them to seek help if needed.
  • Practice self-care: College life can be stressful, so prioritize mental and physical health. Engage in activities that make you feel good like yoga, journaling or spending time with loved ones.
  • Know the resources: Familiarize yourself with on-campus counseling services, national hotlines and online support groups in case you or someone you know needs help.
  • Challenge diet culture: Reject harmful dieting trends and focus on intuitive eating and balanced nutrition rather than restrictive eating habits.
  • Use social media for good: Share positive, body-inclusive content and follow accounts that promote mental well-being instead of unrealistic beauty standards.
  • Remember, you are enough: NEDA Week is a time to celebrate self-acceptance and remind yourself and others that worth is not determined by appearance.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Visit nationaleatingdisorders.org for resources. (Instagram: utc_cw)

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The UTC train is under new management. Advancement is now overseeing the reservation and usage of the train. If you’re interested in having the train at an event, or if you are a faculty or staff member who is interested in becoming a “conductor,” please email Laura-Snyder@utc.edu.

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Details for the Spring 2025 CHAIN (Chattanooga’s Artificial Intelligence Network) Lunch and Learn Series have been posted. From practical applications to the future of the AI landscape, you’ll learn how to utilize AI in your business and in your life while networking with peers in the Chattanooga area.

Monthly sessions will be held at 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursdays through May, and lunch is included. Check out the CHAIN webpage or call the Center for Professional Education (423-425-4344) to register or for more info. The cost is $25 per session. Departments may pay with a transfer voucher after registration.

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The Humanities Program invites all UTC undergraduates to participate in the North Callahan Essay Prize, awarded each year to an undergraduate whose exceptionally fine essay addresses a subject related to the Humanities (art, music, philosophy, religion, rhetoric/literature, history, theater, or interdisciplinary studies that combine these disciplines). Essays will be evaluated by an interdisciplinary committee of professors. The prize carries a $1,000 award.

Funding for the award 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 an alumnus of the University of Chattanooga.

Essays must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 21. Click here for the submission form PDF. Email jose-luis-gastanaga@utc.edu with questions and to submit the essay.

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Registration is now open for Mocs Adventure Camp, a summer experience filled with adventure, exploration and fun. Designed for rising first through eighth graders, the camp takes place at the UTC Aquatic and Recreation Center and offers a mix of outdoor activities, team-building experiences and skill development, all led by experienced and enthusiastic staff. The cost is $300 per week.

Camp dates:

  • Week 1: June 2-6
  • Week 2: June 9-13
  • Week 3: June 16-20
  • Week 4: June 23-27
  • Week 5: July 7-11
  • Week 6: July 14-18
  • Week 7: July 21-25
  • Week 8: July 28-Aug. 1

Spots fill up quickly, so don’t miss out on an unforgettable summer. Visit utc.edu/mocs-adventure-camp to register. For questions, contact Mocs Adventure Camp at MocsAdventureCamp@utc.edu or call 423-425-4213.

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UTC Aquatics is now hiring lifeguards for summer 2025. Applicants must be 16 years or older, pass all lifeguard prerequisites, be able to teach swimming lessons (training provided) and must have American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification. If applicants can work all summer, certification can be provided.

Lifeguards will make $13 an hour. Contact Kate Dennis at emma-dennis@utc.edu if interested.

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UTC students, faculty and staff can try out a subscription to Ground News thanks to the UTC Library.

Ground News is a platform that makes it easy to compare news sources, read between the lines of media bias and break free from algorithms. Nearly 60,000 articles from publications around the world are compiled every day, and users can explore political biases, factuality and ownership data from just about every news organization. Users can also take advantage of the Blindspot feature to see stories covered by different sides of the political spectrum.

To sign up:

  • Make sure you are connected to UTC Wi-Fi or logged in to a computer on the UTC network.
  • Visit https://ground.news/register or download the Ground News app in the App Store or Google Play.
  • Use your own e-mail and password. No need to use the “Continue with Institution” feature.

Trial access ends on Saturday, March 22. If you have any questions, feedback or would like to see this resource stick around, please contact us via e-mail at materials@utc.edu.

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UTC Campus Recreation provides a variety of ways to stay active, from fitness classes and outdoor adventures to intramural sports, weightlifting and club sports. The Campus Recreation office, located in the Aquatics and Recreation Center, is open to anyone interested in learning more about available programs. Full-time faculty and staff memberships are $25 per month and can be set up as a payroll deduction.

Current opportunities include intramural registration for 7×7 soccer, indoor pickleball and indoor volleyball. Campus Recreation is also hiring lifeguards for the summer. Those interested can contact Kate Dennis at emma-dennis@utc.edu for more information.

UTC Newsroom

Mark Horlu, left, is the assistant director of the UTC Math Plaza.

Mark Horlu, left, is the assistant director of the UTC Math Plaza.

Mark Horlu, a graduate student at UTC studying applied mathematics, has always been passionate about the subject. When Horlu taught in his hometown of Have, Ghana, he always tried to make math relatable to his students.

For many, math may seem “boring” or hard to comprehend. Horlu wanted to change the perception of math and show his students that math is a tool that helps explain how the world works—and isn’t so hard.

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When Erica Carr and Brittany Rogers started their community nutrition experiential learning hours last semester, they didn’t expect to write a cookbook. As students in the Master of Public Health (MPH) program at the UTC, they worked with the Chattanooga Food Center to provide a resource for children with sensory-related food issues and their families.

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Local business owner Shawanna Kendrick, left, works with Urban Vision Initiative student consultant interns Ana Morris and Graham Davis.

Local business owner Shawanna Kendrick, left, works with Urban Vision Initiative student consultant interns Ana Morris and Graham Davis.

Providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed, UTC’s Urban Vision Initiative gives students the chance to work with, help and learn from local entrepreneurs self-identified as low-income. Launched in 2022, the initiative connects entrepreneurs from underserved communities with UTC student consultants to support their journey toward economic success.

WUTC

Ray Bassett sat down with Interim Chancellor Robert Dooley as part of the “Chatting with the Chancellor” series on WUTC’s “Scenic Roots.” The two discussed research, campus safety and skydiving.

IN Memoriam

UTC Professor Emeritus Dr. Colbert Whitaker III died at home on Monday, Feb. 17, after an extended illness. Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home and you can see the full obituary here. Dr. Whitaker was a long-time educator in Hamilton County Schools, a two-time graduate of the University of Chattanooga and a Professor Emeritus in Graduate Studies at UTC.

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Former UTC Purchasing Director Charles Scott passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 18, at his home. Scott was a graduate of the University of Chattanooga and twice retired from UTC after serving a long tenure as the purchasing director. A celebration of Scotty’s life will be planned for a warmer day later in the year at his beloved Little Brown Church on Signal Mountain. His full obituary can be viewed 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.
 

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