Kristopher Ware can trace much of his growth at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to the conversations that happened after class. When he earns his bachelor’s degree in psychology, Ware will carry with him the confidence built through his accomplishments, the power of mentorship and a deep appreciation for his field.
Durand Henderson’s journey to community and opportunity at UTC
Durand Henderson has spent the last three years at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga balancing life, work and school. He is now ready to walk across the McKenzie Arena stage on Saturday, Dec. 13, to receive a degree in business administration with a concentration in economics, along with minors in personal finance and political science.
Leading and learning: Stacie Grisham completes her doctoral journey
Like many staff members at UTC, being a full-time employee isn’t Stacie Grisham’s only role on campus. For the past five years, she has also carried a second title—student.
Charles in charge: Storyteller turns his UTC student experience into a career
When Charles Kemp walks across the McKenzie Arena stage at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga undergraduate commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 13, he’ll be thinking about how far he’s come—both as a student and as a storyteller.
Hard work, late nights and an unshakable dream: Julio Gonzalez’s road to commencement
Julio Gonzalez will cross the McKenzie Arena stage on Saturday, Dec. 13, earning a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga College of Engineering and Computer Science. At 32 years old, it’s a walk that has been years in the making—driven by sheer determination.
Promises kept: Graduation means Shari Warren can say ‘I did it’
Recovering from heart surgery while working full time and keeping up with her grandkids’ sporting events, Thanksgiving and holiday shopping has made the end of Shari Warren’s year hectic. On top of it all, she has been taking her final exams and preparing for Saturday, Dec. 13, the day she graduates from the University of…
From student to innovator: How Daniel Duggin transformed AI at UTC
Graduate student Daniel Duggin has made his mark at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga by helping develop campus policies on artificial intelligence. Pursuing a Master of Computer Science and graduating on Friday, Dec. 12, the Medina, Tennessee, native knew he was seeking something different in his college experience.
Crossing the finish line: UTC to celebrate fall 2025 commencement
On Dec. 12-13, UTC will celebrate fall commencement at McKenzie Arena, honoring the accomplishments of approximately 670 undergraduates and 160 graduate students earning their degrees. Many of the 198 undergraduate and 95 graduate students who completed their degrees in August are also expected to return to campus to join in the celebration.
Jermaine Freeman named executive director of economic and workforce development
Jermaine Freeman has been appointed executive director of economic and workforce development, a new leadership position created to strengthen UTC’s role in regional talent development and economic progress.
Let’s make a deal: UTC business students simulate sales meetings
Students in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga recently practiced real-world sales pitches to build confidence and develop professional skills. Lecturer Libby Fakier organized the week-long exercise to practice pitches through a simulated meeting.









