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.
University High to UTC: How an incoming freshman stitched together passion and purpose
Shi Mae Bowling has known for years that she wanted to become a costume designer. What she didn’t know was that a high school initiative located on a college campus would turn that dream into a real, reachable goal—and connect her with a mentor who could help make it possible. But thanks to her time at University High, a collaboration between UTC and Hamilton County Schools, Bowling—a graduating senior from the program’s first cohort—has found guidance and a sense of belonging while earning college credit.
UTC’s Arts-Based Collaborative uses teaching artists to inspire, educate and engage
With spring in full swing, the Arts-Based Collaborative (ABC) at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has been bringing the arts to life in classrooms and communities across the area.
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.
UTC Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship celebrates $5 million naming gift from Max Fuller
The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga received an exceptional gift from alumnus and successful local entrepreneur Max Fuller to name the center at the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, the Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. This $5 million gift will further the center’s mission to inspire discovery, innovation and entrepreneurial initiatives at UTC and the entrepreneurship community in Chattanooga and beyond.
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.
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.