By Ashley Arnold, University Relations Intern
Though you may not know him by name, you have likely seen much of Andrew Roth’s work. The University’s recent dedication of the Roth Reading Room celebrated the life of its name sake, Mr. Andrew Roth, a man responsible for many of the beautiful buildings on campus and throughout Chattanooga.
The dedication was held August 8 in the Roth Reading Room, located on the fourth floor of the new library. Roth’s wife, children, and extended family were in attendance as well as members of the Derthick, Henley, and Wilkerson firm, where Roth was a partner. Chancellor Steven Angle briefly spoke on Roth’s life and work with the University.
“The views from this room are meaningful – not only can you see other buildings that Andy designed, but also our great city,” said Chancellor Angle. “The students have made this place their own. They respect this place and utilize it often, and at any given point you can hear a pin drop in here.”
The dedication honored the life of Roth, who passed away February 28th, 2014. Roth designed many iconic buildings on campus including the EMCS buildings, the ARC, the STEM Challenger Center, and, notably, the beautiful new library, which was his last project here on campus. However, his work was not limited to our Campus; Roth designed several structures around Chattanooga, including the glass Holmberg Bridge near the Hunter Museum of American Art, Finley Stadium, and the Chattanooga Convention center.
Because of the reading room’s importance and centrality in the library, the University felt it was worthy of honoring such a respected man.
