Cindy Monroe, a 1998 marketing graduate of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business and a 2019 inductee to the UTC Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame, is one of UTC’s most successful alumni entrepreneurs.
Drawing Scrappy and the art of growing into a career
Jacob Cate, who graduated with a studio art degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga on Saturday, May 3, spent the past three years drawing new life into the University’s always-feisty mascot. His bold, hand-drawn style added personality to campus campaigns, UTC homecoming themes and everything from Mocs T-shirts to mugs.
From military dependent to campus guide, UTC graduate finds her voice helping others
As a student ambassador in UTC’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs, Mara Doze offered support that went beyond paperwork. She answered questions about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, explained financial aid processes, connected people to campus resources and, just as often, listened.
Cap it off: Tassels turn and futures open at UTC commencement
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga celebrated its 265th commencement on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, with three McKenzie Arena ceremonies recognizing the Class of 2025. Over the two days, the University’s four degree-granting colleges presented 1,565 candidates for degrees.
From holistic healer to social worker, Lori Coletta’s path to purpose
As advanced degree recipients from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Graduate School crossed the McKenzie Arena stage on Friday, May 2, one in particular stood out—not because of a number, but because of her story. At 62 years of age, Lori Coletta accepted her Master of Social Work degree—a moment of “legitimacy” marking the culmination of a decades-long path rooted in advocacy, exploration and the pursuit of purpose.
Giant steps: The class of 2025 walks the walk at UTC commencement
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s 265th commencement—captured through the lens of University photographer Angela Foster and the video team of Mike Andrews, Sam Blevins, Jakey Lutsko and Will McCutcheon.
Chamyra Teasley leaves UTC with a legacy of leadership and purpose
Student body president, Chancellor’s Ambassador, orientation leader, freshman senate advisor and homecoming queen—Chamyra Teasley definitely knows what it’s like to step into the spotlight.
How a coin toss set the course for one graduating UTC senior
When UTC student Andrew Farmer graduated from East Hamilton High School in 2021, he was torn between going to East Tennessee State University or UTC. After struggling for months to choose between the two, Farmer finally decided to leave it up to fate.
‘My entire life happened here’: Chello Gardner’s path to purpose at UTC
With 36 acceptance letters and full-ride scholarships from schools across the country and beyond—including an Ivy League institution—Chello Gardner had an important decision to make. Gardner will graduate with a degree in communication on Saturday, May 3. She tacked on minors in both criminal justice and women, gender and sexuality studies—and was a Brock Scholar in the Honors College—during her time at UTC.
First-gen, second degree: Bailee Smith’s journey through UTC and beyond
Bailee Smith didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming a college professor. In fact, she didn’t even start college planning to pursue cognitive science. But as she prepares to walk across the McKenzie Arena stage on May 2 to receive her master’s degree, she is already envisioning life as Dr. Smith.