Promoting success: Middle School to Mocs Scholars program paves college path for Hamilton County students

Stacy Lightfoot and Amy Hitchcock display the “Power C” to Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts-promoted eighth graders after sharing the news about the Middle School to Mocs Scholars program.

Stacy Lightfoot and Amy Hitchcock display the “Power C” to Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts-promoted students after sharing the news about the Middle School to Mocs Scholars program.

For the second straight year, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga staff and faculty hit the road to spread the UTC name at numerous Hamilton County Schools eighth-grade promotion ceremonies.

Over several days in May, two dozen UTC representatives participated in Middle School to Mocs Scholars events, presenting to more than 3,000 Hamilton County School students.

A collaborative effort between UTC and Hamilton County Schools, the Middle School to Mocs Scholars program aims to build excitement for students about their future as college students. The initiative grants every eighth-grade student a certificate of acceptance to UTC, contingent upon their successful completion of high school and meeting admission requirements for enrollment in fall 2028.

The Middle School to Mocs Scholars program was coordinated by the Division of Access and Engagement in collaboration with Enrollment Management and Student Affairs—along with faculty and staff from around campus.

“We commend the dedication of all involved in fostering the educational aspirations of our youth,” UTC Vice Chancellor Stacy Lightfoot said. “Over the past week, UTC presenters connected with over 3,000 eighth graders as they get ready for high school. This follows on the success of last year.”

Lightfoot thanked the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs staff—led by Vice Chancellor Artanya Wesley and Assistant Vice Chancellor Lee Pierce—and Hamilton County Schools officials for their contributions.

“We couldn’t have done it without our district friends, Blake Freeman and Dr. Sonia Stewart, who were amazing partners in connecting us with every school,” Lightfoot said. “We’ve also made sure that these students participating in the eighth-grade promotions were aware of UTC programming and the requirements for future enrollment.

“We want the students to be inspired and excited about the promotion from eighth to ninth grade—and then to start thinking about college as a future option.”