Common Ground
Common Ground: Exploring the Intersection of Trust and Community
A civic communication series
Common Ground is a civic communication series focused on rebuilding trust and strengthening social connections in Chattanooga and beyond. The series brings scholars, journalists, and practitioners to campus to speak on questions of public consequence.
All events are free and open to the public. Faculty, students, and community members are encouraged to attend and take part in the discussion.
Common Ground is presented by the West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs and the UTC Department of Communication.
Past Lectures
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly, Dr. Robert D. Putnam, and Dr. Brandon Bouchillon, West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs, at the Common Ground lecture on October 21, 2026.
Robert D. Putnam
Common Ground: Rebuilding Social Capital in America
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 · 6:00 p.m.
Benwood Auditorium, Engineering and Computer Science Building, UTC
Author of Bowling Alone, Putnam spoke on the long decline of American civic life and what it would take to rebuild social connection and trust.
Eric Klinenberg
Common Ground: The Power of Social Infrastructure
Thursday, September 24, 2026 · 6:00 p.m.
Hayes Concert Hall, UTC
Author of Palaces for the People, Klinenberg spoke on how shared public spaces - from libraries to parks - can help build stronger communities
Future lectures will be announced on this page and on the UTC events calendar. To hear about them directly, or if you have ideas for who you would like to see, contact Brandon Bouchillon at [email protected].
Media and promotion
Event graphics are available on request. For more information, contact Brandon Bouchillon, West Chair of Excellence in Communication and Public Affairs, at [email protected].