For 1st Lt. Terry Ellis, being a veteran isn’t about a single moment. It’s about a promise made. When Ellis, an assistant professor of practice at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, was announced as the keynote speaker for the annual Chancellor’s Veterans Day Luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 11, he described it as “humbling.”
Honoring service and sacrifice: Veterans Day Luncheon recognizes UTC’s military community
At 21 years of age, John Harbison was leading a team of 20 soldiers and was responsible for $2 million in equipment—a responsibility he hadn’t fully anticipated.
“I had to grow up quick,” he said. “Luckily being in the military, having other officers and (non-commissioned officers) to help me, I rose to the challenge.” Harbison, now a professor of practice for the Learning and Leadership programs at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, shared his journey from U.S. Army officer to educator as a keynote speaker on Monday, Nov. 11, at the Chancellor’s Annual Veterans Day Luncheon.
Leading with purpose: Dr. John Harbison’s commitment to service, learning and leadership
On Monday, Nov. 11, Dr. John Harbison will be the keynote speaker at UTC’s annual Veterans Day Luncheon, a celebration of the veterans and military-affiliated students, faculty and staff at the University. At the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic year, approximately 1,160 veterans, military-affiliated students, spouses and dependents of veterans were enrolled at UTC.


