140 Events for 140 Years
140 Events for 140 Years
Veterans display their Quilts of Honor during UTC’s Chancellor’s Veterans Day Luncheon on Nov. 11, which recognized veterans and military-connected members of the campus community for their service and sacrifice. Chancellor Lori Mann Bruce and Maj. Gen. Mark McDonald delivered remarks during the event, celebrating the contributions of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
UTC Alumni Affairs hosted its November Chattanooga Ambassadors meeting on Nov. 10, highlighting the impact of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP). Program graduates Normand Lavoie and Durand Henderson shared their experiences and success stories, offering ambassadors firsthand insight into how VEP is empowering veterans and making a difference in the community and beyond.
Approximately 150 alumni, students, faculty and community supporters gathered on Friday, Nov. 6, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of UTC’s Student Managed Investment Learning Experience (SMILE) Fund. The event welcomed back members of the program’s inaugural class and highlighted a decade of student investment success, including the fund’s growth from $250,000 to more than $4.5 million in assets under management.
The return of UTC’s Homecoming Parade, followed by a spirited pep rally, brought together approximately 600 campus and community members to celebrate Moc pride and Homecoming traditions.
UTC Alumni Affairs kicked off Homecoming weekend with its annual GOLD Tap Party on Nov. 5 at Southside Social. The event brought together alumni of all ages for an evening of food, bowling, UTC swag and fellowship as they celebrated their Moc pride and reconnected with the University.
UTC’s annual Homecoming Lip Sync Competition brought more than 1,000 spectators to McKenzie Arena for the student-led event, showcasing creativity, school spirit and Moc pride.
UTC kicked off Homecoming Week with Party Like a Mocstar on Chamberlain Field, bringing together students, faculty, staff and community members for an evening of fun, celebration and Moc pride.
The fifth annual Power C Tour made its final stop of 2026 in Chattanooga on Oct. 28, bringing over 300 prospective students and their families together with UTC faculty, staff and current students.
UTC student-athletes gather with Tommie F. Brown Academy students on the during Sports Camp Day on Oct. 21 at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Aquatic and Recreation Center.
On Oct. 13, WUTC and Advancement hosted the Fork It Over for WUTC event at Giardino’s Restaurant. This dinner engaged with over 40 supporters of WUTC.
UTC Theatre Co.'s production of THE REVOLUTIONISTS by Lauren Gunderson ran from October 6-10, 2026, in the UTC Fine Arts Center. The production drew an estimated 1,200 visitors and involved 60 faculty, staff and students.
On Oct. 9, Doctor of Physical Therapy students joined local senior athletes on the court for a morning of pickleball. Participants compete both recreationally and at the Senior Olympics level, bringing a range of experience and competitive backgrounds to the event.
On Oct. 9, Alumni Affairs hosted the GOLD10 Award Reception in Lupton Hall. Over 60 people attended this reception to recognize 10 outstanding Graduates of the Last Decade who are making an impact in their professions, communities and beyond.
The Power C Tour rolled into Memphis on October 8, giving prospective students and families a firsthand look at life as a Chattanooga Moc. Attendees connected with UTC representatives, explored academic opportunities, learned about financial aid and campus life, and discovered how they could become part of the UTC family.
On Wednesday, Oct. 7, the UTC College of Nursing held its fall festival on the lawn outside of the Metro Building. Dozens of community members stopped by to learn about UTC Nursing programs and explore opportunities with healthcare facilities.
UTC raised $2,764,195 from 2,671 donors during its seventh annual Mocs Give Day on Oct. 6, setting a new participation record for the University’s annual day of giving.
On Oct. 6, Doctor of Physical Therapy students hosted a LSVT BIG event with community volunteers living with Parkinson's Disease. They performed physical therapy evaluations on community volunteers living with Parkinson's disease, with an emphasis on the LSVT BIG treatment approach.
Danish folk trio Stundom brought its distinctive blend of traditional Scandinavian music and contemporary sounds to UTC’s Cadek Hall on October 6. The performance, part of the 2026-27 UTC LIVE! season, marked a stop on the group’s first American tour and introduced Chattanooga audiences to the trio’s captivating musical style.
The UTC Department of Music hosted the Mid-South Symphonic Band’s free Let Freedom Ring concert in Roland Hayes Concert Hall on Oct. 4. More than 300 attendees gathered to celebrate 250 years of American freedom. UTC students, faculty, staff and alumni hosted and participated, including the UTC Army ROTC Color Guard’s Presentation of Colors.
Chancellor Lori Bruce stands with Tartan Challenge winners Kaila Bui (left) and Sierra Brown, holding their winning tartan design. The interdisciplinary challenge invited students across all majors to research, design and pitch an original tartan reflecting the spirit of UTC. Final judging and winners were announced on Oct. 2.
UTC hosted the opening-night reception for the Tennessee Governor’s Conference on Economic and Community Development at Chamberlain Field on Oct. 1, welcoming business, government and economic development leaders from across the state to campus.
The UTC Power C Tour made a stop in the Nashville area on September 30, bringing the Mocs experience to prospective students and their families. Held in Franklin, the event offered opportunities to connect with campus leaders, explore academic programs, learn about scholarships and admissions, and discover what makes UTC special.
UTC hosted its second Point On Wave Applications Conference on Sept. 29–30 at the Wolford Family Athletic Center. Representatives from more than 50 organizations explored how high-resolution electrical data can strengthen grid planning, operations, maintenance, reliability and security across generation, transmission and distribution systems.
UTC students, faculty and staff celebrated Dolly Day on Sept. 25 with campuswide activities honoring Dolly Parton’s life and legacy. Events highlighted her commitment to literacy, service, music, film, entrepreneurship and community, while bringing the UTC community together in recognition of the Tennessee icon’s lasting impact.
Chancellor Lori Bruce and other members of UTC’s administration joined UT System President Randy Boyd on multiple stops of the UT System Find Your Future tour in September and October.
Acclaimed novelist Mesha Maren headlined UTC’s Meacham Writers’ Workshop, held September 23-26. The annual literary gathering brought together established and emerging writers for readings, workshops and conversations about the craft of writing. The event continued UTC’s tradition of connecting students and the Chattanooga community with accomplished authors and creative voices.
The Institute of Contemporary Art hosted over 100 attendees on Sept. 22 to a Closing Reception for "Reconsidered Recollections." This was a student-curated reactivation of the permanent collection, supervised by Dr. Bart Pushaw.
UTC students, faculty and staff spread out across the city on Friday, Sept. 18, to take part in United Way of Greater Chattanooga’s Day of Caring. Students in Dr. Lori Waite’s First Year Experience class package food for the church’s homeless outreach program at Greater Emmanuel Apostolic Church.
Acclaimed jazz pianist Benny Green kicked off the 2026-27 UTC LIVE! season with a September 17 performance in Roland Hayes Concert Hall. The concert, which benefited WUTC-FM 88.1, showcased Green’s extraordinary talent and celebrated the University’s commitment to bringing world-class musical performances to campus and the greater Chattanooga community.
Over 350 students gathered on the West Campus parking garage to watch fireworks as part of the 140th Anniversary during Founder's Week on Sept. 17. It was the first time a fireworks show had taken place on campus.
The annual Light Upon a Hill dinner was held on Sept. 17 during Founders Week. The evening brought together a distinguished group of donors whose generosity supports student success, academic innovation and the continued growth of our University.
On Sept. 17, Doctor of Physical Therapy students develop and delivered educational presentations to members of the Chattanooga community Parkinson's Disease support group. Nearly 50 attendees heard topics vary by session and include evidence-based exercise and treatment approaches, freezing of gait, fall prevention and home safety, exercise for neuroprotection and disease management, balance and postural changes, dual-task training, non-motor symptoms such as fatigue and sleep disturbance, and caregiver support and resources.
UTC celebrated the dedication and achievements of faculty and staff during its annual service recognition ceremony on Sept. 16. The event honored employees reaching significant service milestones and recognized their contributions to the University. The celebration highlighted the commitment, talent and teamwork of the people who help make UTC a special place to work and learn.
Chancellor Bruce gave her first State of the University Address to a packed UC Auditorium as part of Founder's Week on Sept. 15. She then welcomed the campus community to cut cake and enjoy the University’s 140th anniversary on campus.
The third annual Chattanooga Connect conference, hosted by the UTC Research Institute (UTCRI), was held Sept. 14-16. The three-day event brought together transportation, technology, government, research and industry leaders to discuss how to move emerging technologies from promising pilots to broader, real-world deployment.
UTC community members gather in the University Center Auditorium for 9/11: A Day of Remembrance on Sept. 11, honoring those killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks and recognizing the courage, service and sacrifice of military members, first responders and their families over the past 25 years.
Opening on Sept. 10 with 45 attendees and a roundtable discussion, "Reconsidered Recollections" is a student-curated exhibition from the Institute of Contemporary Art's permanent collection. It featured Dr. Bart Pushaw, UTC alum Jon Brumit, and Department of Art students.
UTC Chemistry students engaged over 100 young visitors during Chemistry Day demonstrations at the Creative Discovery Museum on Sept. 5.
Our alumni tailgates provide a family-friendly atmosphere where alumni, family, and friends gather to enjoy food, fun, and fellowship while showing their Moc spirit. Here is a shot of the buttons from the home opener on Sept. 5.
The Mocs celebrated the University’s academic partnership with Tyner Middle High Academy during UTC Night on Sept. 4. A halftime announcement, UTC swag giveaway and an appearance by Scrappy highlighted the Teaching, Leading and Learning Institute at Tyner and engaged approximately 200 students at the game.
On Sept.1, the Sports Welcome Back Bash mixed UTC athletics, local teams like the Lookouts and students for a fun afternoon of play on Chamberlain Field.
The Mocs Bookstore hosts a popular event with the Poster Sale. This year's sale lasted from Aug. 31 - Sept. 4 and drew students and community members alike to Chamberlain Field.
On August 26, headphone disco drew a big crowd to Chamberlain Field.
One Wednesday, August 26, one of the more popular fall events returned to Chamberlain Field. Goat Yoga, sponsored by the Center for Wellbeing, always draws a crowd. It is billed as a fun, refreshing, and one-of-a-kind way to de-stress, move your body, and meet some seriously adorable goats.
Mocs Sports Properties held its annual Partner Kick-Off Event on Aug. 24 prior to the start of the athletics season. The athletics department welcomed 125 guests to the Stratus Rooftop Lounge on the top floor of the Caption Hotel.
SGA President Zach Lewis was one of a dozen campus representative who went live on WGOW 102.3 FM’s Jed & JR Mornings show on the first day of class (Aug. 24). This group took a landmark day on campus out to the public airwaves to showcase all the great things happening at UTC.
Over 2,000 students came out for the Oak Street Roast on Aug. 23. The annual event welcomed students and the community back to campus for the start of the fall semester.
Chancellor Bruce threw a first-pitch strike to kick off UTC Night at the Lookouts on Aug. 21. 450 students got free tickets and transportation to the game.
New Mocs filled McKenzie Arena on August 21 for UTC’s annual Convocation, a spirited welcome to campus. Featuring the Marching Mocs, Ladies of Gold and Spirit Squad, the celebration introduced students to UTC traditions. Chancellor Lori Bruce encouraged students to embrace opportunities, make connections and inspire others.
A Mocs First Tailgate brought students and fans together for the football Fan Fest event on Aug. 20. A mix of students and fans in the First Horizon Pavilion at Finley Stadium made the kickoff event a huge success.
On Aug. 20, UTC's annual Dinner With the AD brought together Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Mark Wharton, coaches and student-athletes with over 200 members of the Mocs Club and donors to our athletics programs.
Operation Move In, held Aug. 19-20, is an annual University of Tennessee at Chattanooga event that helps students move to campus. The campuswide effort brings together students, faculty, staff and administrators to ease the transition and introduce new students to classmates and the people of UTC.
UTC faculty explored Chattanooga’s history, future and educational opportunities during the annual bus tour on Aug. 14, highlighting ways place and community can enrich classroom teaching.
On Tuesday, August 11, at the Hunter Museum of Art, new faculty members gathered for UTC’s annual new-faculty dinner, where they were welcomed by campus leaders and colleagues. The event offered an opportunity to build connections, learn more about the UTC community and celebrate the start of the academic year together on campus.
UTC leaders and Japan-America Society of Tennessee delegates gather at the UTC Research Institute during an Aug. 10 campus visit. The tour highlighted interdisciplinary work in quantum networking, connected autonomous vehicles and infrastructure while strengthening opportunities for international collaboration, research partnerships, student experiences and workforce development.
Dr. Yvette Hairston and Dr. Delight Yokley welcomed students to Tommie F. Brown Academy on August 5 as part of a blue-and-gold celebration marking the first day of school. Approximately two dozen UTC faculty, staff and students greeted arriving families with cheers, signs and pom-poms, highlighting the University's partnership with Brown Academy.
Twenty UTC DNP faculty members and students participated in the annual wellness expo on Aug. 1.
Held on July 28, over 60 people enjoyed the UTC Alumni Board and Past Presidents Summer Social. This annual gathering brings together current Alumni Board members, past board presidents, and university leadership for an evening of fellowship and connection. The event provides an opportunity to reconnect, build relationships, and celebrate continued involvement with UTC.
A July 31 ceremony recognized Faith Rose, PT, DPT for completing the Siskin Rehabilitation and UTC Geriatric Physical Therapy Residency Program. The event honored her achievement and recognized the faculty, clinical mentors, and partnering institutions, including Siskin Rehabilitation Hospital, whose support made the program possible.
UTC staff members gathered in Lupton Hall on July 23 for the Staff Senate’s inaugural Summer Staff Conference. Themed “Fill Your Bucket,” the event brought employees together for professional development, campus tours, informational sessions and a resource fair. The conference emphasized collaboration, campus connections and celebrating the staff who support UTC.
UTC Psychology faculty and students led hands-on activities at Brain Day on July 22 at the Creative Discovery Museum, teaching children and families about the brain, brain health and brain safety.
“Home to Harlem with Love,” held June 19 in the UTC Fine Arts Center, took audiences on an interactive journey from the 13th Amendment to the Harlem Renaissance in celebration of Juneteenth.
Click here for selected stories on our 140 Events for 140 Years initiative
Dear faculty, staff and students,
As part of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s 140th anniversary celebration, I am inviting our campus to take part in a new initiative for the 2026–27 academic year: 140 Events for 140 Years.
This effort honors UTC’s founding in 1886 and reflects the legacy we continue to build today. The history of UTC is deeply connected to the story of this city, and our 140th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate that connection in meaningful, visible ways.
Many of you are already hosting or participating in community-connected events, performances, exhibitions, outreach programs, service opportunities and other gatherings throughout the year that welcome members of the public to campus or take UTC into the community.
The goal of this initiative is not to create work where none exists, but to recognize and track the many ways UTC is already engaging the broader community. It will also help us promote your activities and be recognized for it.
We are asking colleges, departments, offices, student organizations and campus partners to identify and report public-facing events that take place during the 2026–27 academic year.
These events should engage audiences beyond our campus and reflect the energy, creativity and service that define UTC. Whether it is a long-standing annual event or a new program created for the anniversary year, each one helps tell the story of UTC’s impact.
By tracking 140 events during our 140th year, we can better showcase the breadth of involvement already happening across campus and demonstrate how UTC continues to serve as a gathering place for learning, dialogue, culture and community connection.
Below is a form to submit events and help us track this important work. If your unit is already planning public programs, we encourage you to include them. If you are considering a new opportunity to engage the community, we welcome that as well.
140 Events for 140 Years is our opportunity to honor our legacy and rally our campus community around a shared purpose—celebrating not only where we have been, but how we continue to show up for Chattanooga.
Thank you for helping us mark this milestone year in ways that reflect the very best of UTC.
Sincerely,
Dr. Lori Bruce
Chancellor