Rollins Scholars Class of 2026

Meet the 2025–2026 Rollins Scholars, a group of 19 graduating seniors from the Gary W. Rollins College of Business at UTC. 

These students studied everything from accounting and finance to marketing and management, and they've accomplished some impressive things along the way. They're heading into full-time jobs at companies like Unum, TVA, LBMC and HHM, pursuing graduate school or starting their own businesses.

But ask any of them what mattered most and they'll point to the people. These scholars say the program gave them a community, with friends who pushed them, mentors who believed in them and experiences like traveling to Japan and Spain they'll never forget. Made possible by a generous gift from Gary W. Rollins and his wife Kathleen, the program shaped who they are and where they're headed.

 

 

Tyson standing and posing in a yard with a window behind him.

Tyson Bach | Chattanooga, TN | Finance

Tyson shares that UTC encouraged him to grow to much greater lengths than he could have on his own. The Rollins Scholars Program and its community served as a steady source of support when he needed it most. Although he is leaving campus, the memories and experiences will remain with him long after graduation. He intends to pursue his dreams in finance and guide others through financial advising. While his exact professional path is still unfolding, he is confident in the relationships he built during his time in Chattanooga.

Emma posing in a stairwell looking up at the camera

Emma Bitting | St Joseph, TN | Marketing

Emma will remain in Chattanooga after graduation to continue working in the marketing department at Coker Tire. She credits this opportunity, along with many others, to the resources provided through the Rollins Scholars Program.

Punyalada posing on the steps of a building

Punyalada “Pare” Chalamaneeporn | Cohutta, GA | Marketing

Pare is a graduating senior earning a BSBA in Marketing: Professional Sales with a minor in economics. After graduation, she plans to travel and pursue a career as a flight attendant with United Airlines, with intentions of relocating to the East Coast. She describes the Rollins Scholars Program as indispensable to her collegiate experience, providing meaningful memories, friendships, and opportunities.

Landon posing in front of the Leuvre in Paris

Landon Covich | Murfreesboro, TN | Finance

Landon is graduating in Financial Investments from UTC and pursuing a career in financial services. He notes that the Rollins Scholars Program pushed him beyond the classroom and prepared him for the professional world in a way nothing else could.

A professional headshot of Taylor

Taylor Dunagan | Paris, TN | Accounting

Taylor graduated in December 2025 and is currently a CPA at HHM. During her time at UTC, she was actively involved in numerous organizations and leadership roles, including serving as a TSCPA Student Ambassador, Panhellenic recruitment counselor, DSAC board member, Beta Alpha Psi member, Community Service Chair, and Rollins Scholars Program Mentor.

Jacob standing and posing in front of the Eiffel Tower.

Jacob Gould | Clarksville, TN | Management

Jacob is a Business Management major with a minor in Political Science. As a Rollins Scholar, he has been actively involved in campus leadership and internships, gaining experience in event operations, recruiting, and student engagement. He plans to pursue an MBA and build a career in organizational leadership.

James on stage at an event holding a microphone.

James Kalla | Chattanooga, TN | Accounting

James is an Accounting student from Chattanooga, Tennessee. In addition to being a Rollins Scholar, he is a member of the Honors College and a former President of the Eta Kappa chapter of Beta Alpha Psi. After graduation, he plans to sit for the CPA exam and will begin working with LBMC as a Tax Services team member in August 2026. He expresses gratitude to the Rollins Scholars Program for connecting him with peers, mentors, and professional leaders.

Kathryn standing in front of a wall for a headshot photo

Kathryn Lazenby | Chattanooga, TN | Economics

Kathryn is an avid traveler who values learning through cultural experiences. Through her academic studies and global exposure, she has developed an appreciation for how culture influences economic decisions, government expectations, and personal values. Her time in the Rollins Scholars Program strengthened her critical thinking and ability to connect across differences — skills she will carry forward.

Ashlin posing while wearing her graduation stole and cords

Ashlin Lowry | Chattanooga, TN | Management

Ashlin describes the Rollins Scholars Program as more than an academic experience, but rather a source of support, growth, and motivation. She credits the program with challenging her to grow personally and professionally. After graduation, she plans to travel and gain new perspectives before pursuing a career in the financial side of real estate. She carries forward the lessons, relationships, and resilience developed through the program.

Chandler leaning against a wall standing outside the RCOB Bloomberg Lab.

Chandler Mason | Memphis, TN | Finance

Chandler is a Rollins Scholar whose journey reflects resilience and commitment, progressing from early academic struggles to achieving a 4.0 GPA and leadership roles within the SMILE Fund. He views growth through challenge and invests in mentoring others. After graduation, he plans to continue working in data and analytics engineering while pursuing certifications and eventually launching a logistics-focused venture.

Brooke standing outside of Fletcher Hall holding her graduation cap and wearing graduation gown

Brooke McMillen | Chattanooga, TN | Finance

Brooke is a business finance major who has interned with TVA in Economic Development for two years. After graduation, she will transition into an HR role with TVA for the summer. She describes the Rollins Scholars Program as a transformative influence, providing friendships, accountability, growth, and study abroad opportunities.

Matthew standing and posing on a sidewalk

Matthew Nelson | Hixson, TN | Marketing

Matthew will graduate with a degree in marketing and will begin working full-time with Unum as a client coordinator. He credits the Rollins Scholars Program with helping him grow personally, academically, and professionally while forming lasting friendships.

Lauren posing in front of doors with graduation gown in hand and leg kicked up.

Lauren Perry | Manchester, TN | Marketing

Lauren graduated with a degree in marketing and plans to continue building her career while developing entrepreneurial ventures, including launching a coffee cart with her partner. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, painting, and exploring local coffee shops in Chattanooga.

Jake smiling and taking a selfie.

Jake Plasco | Fort Mill, TN | Entrepreneurship

Jake is a recent UTC graduate and Rollins Scholar who is currently working toward launching a business with his partner, utilizing the knowledge and connections gained during his time at UTC. He enjoys climbing and paddling in his free time.

Alyson posing in front of a bush with her graduation stole.

Alyson Rathman | Soddy Daisy, TN | Marketing

Alyson plans to pursue an MBA while serving as a graduate assistant after completing her undergraduate degree. She hopes to build her career in Chattanooga and credits the Rollins College of Business with significantly shaping her personal and academic growth.

Aracely posing in front of a short stone wall wearing her graduation gown.

Aracely Raymundo | Chattanooga, TN | Accounting

Aracely is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the Rollins College of Business. She enjoys attending concerts and traveling. She plans to begin traveling after graduation before pursuing her CPA license. She expresses gratitude for the friendships and opportunities provided by the Rollins Scholars Program.

A professional headshot of Justin.

Justin Straus | Knoxville, TN | Finance and Accounting

Justin graduated as a 4.0 double major in accounting and finance and was recognized as the most outstanding senior in both programs. He held numerous honors and leadership roles, including serving on the Dean’s Advisory Board and as Vice President of the Dean’s Student Advisory Council. After graduation, he enrolled in the University of Tennessee Knoxville’s Master of Accountancy program and plans to pursue his CPA license with aspirations in the sports and entertainment industry.

Jayla standing in an old building posing.

Jayla Terry | Memphis, TN | Management

Jayla is a business management major from Memphis, Tennessee. She describes the Rollins Scholars Program as a foundational part of her college experience, providing community, connections, and preparation for her career. After graduation, she plans to focus on personal growth, work in an administrative role, and continue developing her businesses.

Emily standing and posing against a brick wall

Emily Whitten | Manchester, TN | Accounting

Emily is an accounting major passionate about using her skills to help others through financial services such as tax preparation. She values the opportunities and experiences provided by the Rollins Scholars Program, which have shaped her academic journey.

Gary W. Rollins College of Business

Gary W. Rollins College of Business