Anticipating a New Chapter: Tomorrow, the UT Board of Trustees will consider the recommendation of Dr. Lori Mann Bruce as the next chancellor of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. I am thrilled that President Randy Boyd has recommended Dr. Bruce. Her background and exceptional leadership experience in higher education make her the right chancellor to move UTC forward. I look forward to welcoming her to Chattanooga and supporting her as she transitions to UTC. This is an exciting moment for our campus, and I am confident in the future ahead.

Welcoming a New Leader to CECS: I’m thrilled about the selection of Dr. Kumar Yelamarthi as the new dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science, effective July 1. Dr. Yelamarthi brings a strong background in academic leadership, student success, and industry collaboration—experience that will serve UTC well as we continue to grow the impact of CECS across our region and beyond. I also want to thank Dr. Ahad Nasab for his outstanding service as interim dean over the past two years.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025! This year’s commencement ceremonies were nothing short of spectacular. Watching our graduates cross the stage—and getting the opportunity to shake their hands—was a powerful reminder of the difference we make together. Thank you to the faculty, staff, volunteers and speakers who helped create such a meaningful and memorable experience for our students. You made it a celebration they’ll never forget.

Goodbye and Hello: As we celebrate the Class of 2025, we also look ahead with excitement to welcoming our newest Mocs. Orientation sessions begin this month and continue throughout the summer, leading up to Operation Move-In on Aug. 13-14. I encourage all of you to volunteer and help us roll out the welcome mat for our incoming first-year and transfer students and their families. Your presence and support go a long way in making them feel at home here at UTC.

Strategic Planning for UTC’s Future: After months of thoughtful collaboration across campus, UTC’s new strategic plan—shaped around five pillars of focus—will be presented to the Campus Advisory Board tomorrow (May 16) and to the UT System Board of Trustees during their June 30–July 1 meetings. Centered on Learner Education and Experience, Faculty/Staff Experience and Success, Innovative and Impactful Research, Operational Excellence, and Community Engagement and Impact, the plan reflects the priorities, values and aspirations of our entire campus community. Thank you to everyone who contributed ideas, time and energy to this vital work. It’s a strong foundation for the future of UTC.

Don’t Forget to Nominate: A quick reminder about the new Moc’s Golden Feather Award—our bi-monthly staff recognition program celebrating the outstanding dedication, teamwork and excellence of UTC employees. Every member of our campus plays a key role in creating a successful environment, and this award is a chance to highlight those who go above and beyond. “Mocs fly together,” so please click here to learn more and submit a nomination.

Finding Place and Purpose at UTC: Congratulations to Shi Mae Bowling, a recent graduate from the first University High cohort, who will join UTC this fall as a theatre major with a focus on costume design. Thanks to her experience in University High—a powerful partnership between UTC and Hamilton County Schools—Shi Mae earned college credit, built lasting relationships with mentors like Professor Laurie Melnik Allen and found a sense of belonging that helped shape her path. A recipient of the Chancellor’s Scholarship, Shi Mae is an exemplary example of how University High is preparing students for success in college and beyond.

Words to Build On: “Your obstacles are not roadblocks; they are opportunities.” That was the message from UTC alum Cindy Monroe (’98) during undergraduate commencement ceremonies, where she delivered an inspiring charge to the Class of 2025. Monroe, one of our most successful alumni entrepreneurs, spoke candidly about her journey and encouraged graduates to embrace failure, take risks and keep learning. We’re proud to count her among our alums and we’re grateful for her continued support of UTC and the Gary W. Rollins College of Business. Her words were a powerful reminder that Mocs truly go on to build extraordinary things.

UT Board of Trustees Coming to Campus: I look forward to welcoming the UT System Board of Trustees to UTC for its annual meeting on June 30–July 1. I’m honored to host our system leadership, showcase the great work happening across campus and represent the incredible students, faculty and staff who make UTC such a special place. Thank you in advance to everyone involved in preparing for this important visit.

*     *     *     *     *

Looking Back with Gratitude: As we wrap up the final C-Note of the 2024-25 academic year, I want to take a moment to say thank you. Serving as interim chancellor has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such a talented, passionate and dedicated campus community.

From the classroom to the stage, the lab to the basketball court, this semester has been full of memorable milestones—and they’ve all been driven by your commitment to our students and each other. I’ve enjoyed every moment of walking this campus, hearing your stories and seeing the pride you bring to UTC.

While I look forward to returning to the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, I will always be proud of this time spent with you in a different role. Thank you for your support, your partnership and the impact you make each day. You’ve made this a truly unforgettable experience.

I hope the summer months give you time to relax, recharge and reflect on the difference you make. Have a great summer!