A legacy of transformation: Highlights of Chancellor Angle’s leadership at UTC

As University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Chancellor Steve Angle transitions from his leadership role to join the faculty on Jan. 1, 2025, his 11 ½ years at the helm marked a period of significant growth and innovation—elevating the University’s reputation and laying the foundation for its future success.

Serving as UTC’s 17th leader since July 1, 2013, Angle was the fourth-longest-serving leader in the institution’s history and the second-longest since UTC joined the University of Tennessee System in 1969.

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‘UTC is people’: Dr. Steve Angle reflects on 11.5 years as chancellor and looks ahead

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Angle’s vision for UTC was clear from the start: to establish the University as a vital partner to the city of Chattanooga, the region and the state. Over the next decade, that vision became a reality as UTC emerged as a leader in student success, workforce development and groundbreaking research. His leadership propelled UTC to unprecedented achievements in academics, research, infrastructure and philanthropy.

During his tenure, Angle oversaw 84 projects that invested over $710 million into the UTC campus. Significant projects include investing in the new Dorothy and Jim Kennedy Health Sciences Building; the upcoming addition to Fletcher Hall and the Gary W. Rollins College of Business—the first named college in University history; improved athletic facilities; and new student housing.

At the start of the 2024-2025 academic year, an unprecedented capital investment was taking place on campus with seven significant projects totaling more than $400 million either in process or about to start—setting the institution up for future success. In September, the Wolford Family Athletic Center was the first of the major projects to reach completion, adding state-of-the-art sports medicine, hydrotherapy and mental health facilities for student-athletes.

Looking ahead, the University recently broke ground on the Dorothy and Jim Kennedy Health Sciences Building, the future home of the School of Nursing. This 90,000-square-foot facility—scheduled for completion in 2026—will feature advanced simulation labs, modern classrooms and collaborative spaces, all reflective of the excellence and dedication demonstrated by the faculty, staff and students in the nursing program. In addition, planning for a new 780-bed residence hall has begun; the residence hall will contribute to the vibrancy of campus life, offering immersive learning environments for residential communities.

Other projects completed during his time as chancellor include the $50-million UTC Library, the revitalization of Chamberlain Pavilion, and the renovation of Lupton Hall and the Guerry Center—all aimed at enhancing academic and student life.

UTC welcomed its largest freshman class in fall 2024 for a second consecutive year, contributing to a record-high enrollment. Graduate enrollment has also surged, further expanding the reach and impact of the University’s academic programs.

Angle championed the liberal arts as an essential foundation for leadership and engaged citizenship. Initiatives such as “A Moc’s First Year” and expanded Living Learning Communities fostered a sense of belonging and academic excellence for new students.

Philanthropy has also flourished, with more than $247 million raised during Angle’s tenure. Fiscal year 2024 was a record-breaking year, with over $60 million in donations from 6,762 donors. Milestone gifts included a $40-million contribution to name the Gary W. Rollins College of Business and $30 million for the upcoming expansion of Fletcher Hall.

Angle prioritized collaboration and innovation, leading to the creation of the UTC Research Institute—which was established as a strategic engine for increasing research funding and fostering interdisciplinary partnerships. Its focus on critical areas such as transportation technologies and quantum research underscored the University’s commitment to local industry and community priorities.

This strategic direction followed UTC’s collaboration with EPB and other partners in building the nation’s first commercially available, industry-led quantum network, with UTC serving as a key node. The institution has embraced the future by expanding faculty expertise in quantum technologies and developing a curriculum designed to prepare a new workforce for quantum companies. These initiatives make the campus a gateway for partnerships, attracting talent and entrepreneurship to the Chattanooga area.

The University’s first Governor’s Chair in Quantum Information Science and Engineering, created in partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will make a new era of research excellence.

During Angle’s tenure, research funding rose by 52%, reaching $15.5 million in 2024. Two new Ph.D. programs in mobility and quantum sciences are under development, further solidifying UTC’s role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

Angle’s leadership extended far beyond campus. His ability to forge meaningful partnerships, secure transformative funding and inspire excellence among faculty and staff strengthened UTC’s role as a vital engine for regional growth and innovation.

UTC deepened its connections with Chattanooga’s business and civic leaders. Partnerships with organizations such as Volkswagen, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and EPB advanced workforce development and regional economic growth.

As UTC moves forward, it does so on the solid foundation built during Angle’s tenure. His leadership strengthened the University’s role as a regional powerhouse and positioned it to continue making meaningful contributions to the city, state and beyond.

Chancellor’s Farewell Reception photo gallery by Ray Soldano