Phillips Scholars
The Phillips Scholarship program is designed for students who possess a spirit and aptitude for understanding and appreciating the free enterprise system. By empowering individuals who embody the values of free markets and individual liberty, the program aims to shape future leaders who will advocate for personal responsibility, economic freedom, entrepreneurship, and innovation, fostering a more prosperous society.
Learn more about past and current Phillips Scholars.
2024-2025 Phillips Scholars
Kyle Rains is a senior working towards a double major in economics and mathematics. He has served as president of the Economics Club, Chief Analyst for the SMILE Fund, and a member of UTC’s 2022 Federal Reserve Challenge Team. Currently, Kyle works as a Research Assistant for Dr. Sheena Murray and is completing his Departmental Honors Thesis under the guidance of Dr. Claudia Kramer. Fun Fact: Kyle hopes to pursue a Ph.D. or pre-doctoral fellowship after graduation and aspires to become an economics professor.
Diana Melendez is a senior at UTC pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Management. Originally from Orlando, Florida, she is actively involved with the Center for Women and Gender Equity, the Society for the Advancement of Management, and the Financial Management Association. Diana balances her studies with work at Publix and plans to attend law school after graduation. Fun Fact: Before attending UTC, Diana performed in Disney's Candlelight Christmas Show at EPCOT and Disney campgrounds and managed a Planet Fitness in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. She enjoys yoga, line dancing, and spending time with her cat.
Jensen Gage Keeble, from Chattanooga, Tennessee, is studying marketing and finance at UTC. He serves as Chief Analyst for the SMILE Fund, leading a team managing a portfolio for the UC Foundation. An Eagle Scout and entrepreneur, Jensen runs Scenic Shine Window Cleaning and is passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, community service, and creative design. Fun Fact: Jensen enjoys competing in local SCCA autocross, camping, and training for triathlons. He plans to combine his skills in marketing, finance, and engineering to start a business in the motorsports industry.
Ana Morris, from Knoxville, Tennessee, is earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Entrepreneurship with a minor in Innovation in Honors from the UTC Honors College. She works as a Student Intern Consultant for the Urban Vision Initiative, working with local entrepreneurs and community leaders to support business development in underserved areas. Fun Fact: After graduation, Ana plans to travel and pursue a career focused on community impact.
Jordan Walker is a senior pursuing a degree in finance-investments with a minor in education. Originally from Sharps Chapel, Tennessee, he has served as Vice President and Treasurer of Beta Upsilon Chi, held leadership roles in Chattanooga Young Life, and represented UTC as a tour guide, orientation leader, and Chancellor’s Ambassador. Jordan is also a recipient of the Public Service Award, recognizing his dedication to service and leadership. Fun Fact: Jordan interns in the Core Market Underwriting department at Unum Group and plans to pursue a career in financial advising or wealth management.
Paula Guox Vicente is a senior majoring in finance. Born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Paula is the second in her family to graduate from college and a proud member of the First in Fletcher first-generation group. With a background rooted in her parents’ Guatemalan heritage and their small business, she has developed skills in customer service, collaboration, data analysis, and financial inventory management from an early age. Fun Fact: Paula, the middle of five siblings, is bilingual in English and Spanish and has a working knowledge of Korean and Chinese. She plans to gain professional experience after graduating and open her own financial firm.
Erin Yenawine is a junior honors student pursuing a dual degree in economics and political science. Originally from Hopkinton, Massachusetts, she serves as President of the UTC Economics Club and has participated in the Tennessee Intercollegiate State Legislature, interned with the City of Chattanooga’s planning agency and Tennessee Valley Authority in financial services, and conducted anti-human trafficking research. Fun Fact: Currently studying European policy in The Netherlands, Erin plans to pursue a master’s in public policy and a research-focused career developing economic policy proposals.
Ryan Rinker, from Franklin, Tennessee, is a junior pursuing a degree in finance-investments. A SMILE Fund member since his freshman year, he is rebuilding the Introduction to Financial Analysis class and was part of the CFA Institute Research Challenge winning team for Tennessee and the Southeast. Ryan also serves as Vice President of Chi Alpha, a student ministry. Fun Fact: Ryan was a varsity athlete in football and soccer, a math tutor, and student body vice president in high school and plans to pursue a career in ministry.
Ella Sylvester is from Nolensville, Tennessee and is a junior pursuing a degree in marketing. She works as an Office Assistant at the Center for Academic Support and Advisement, helping students with advising, tutoring appointments, and orientation needs. Ella is also an active member of UTC’s American Marketing Association. Fun Fact: With prior experience in the wedding floral industry, Ella aspires to own and manage her own wedding venue. She is also interested in event planning for the music industry, envisioning a future as an event coordinator for concerts and special events.