Message from the Chancellor

MESSAGE FROM

THE CHANCELLOR

IMPACT. As educators, our role is to prepare students to be responsible citizens, achieve their dreams and impact society. Along the way, we work to help them connect to our community and discover their place in the world.

This issue of The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Magazine brings stories of the wide-ranging life experiences, aspirations and passions our students bring to UTC and our community. As I read their stories, what impressed me was the rich diversity of backgrounds, interests and experiences among individual students who, collectively, make up our student body.

The students, alumni and faculty profiled in the pages of this issue represent a small sample of the divergent interests, contributions and hopes for the future of those we are privileged to interact with on their life journeys.

Our students engage in creative, diverse learning experiences within and outside the classroom; complete essential and impactful capstone projects; experience life-changing study abroad programs; conduct cutting-edge research; complete internships; engage in our community; and embrace off-campus adventures. UTC is a springboard for students to discover and begin writing their next chapter.

A common theme is student involvement and engagement, starting with cohort communities—a unique approach to building community through student groups and connections. We provide opportunities for students to engage in large and small settings, ranging from research to projects to recreational activities. It is the beating heart of the UTC educational experience and aids students in their life preparation.

In addition to the wide variety of students featured in this issue, you’ll meet a young alumnus—mechanical engineering major Freeman Broadwell— who has started a STEM education program in the country of Albania. The magazine is capped off by a tribute to Richard Jackson, an English department professor retiring after a remarkable 46-year career. One of his points of pride: More than 50 of his former students have published books.

You will also learn how UTC is adapting to the changing needs of businesses and students. The Bachelor of Applied Leadership is a fully online bachelor’s degree program for students with previous college, military or work experience who want to complete their undergraduate degrees. Our Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechatronics allows students to work hands-on with robots and be prepared for opportunities in this rapidly growing field. While our undergraduates come from various backgrounds and enroll in a variety of programs, they share a common goal: To complete their studies, earn a degree and be prepared to take on the challenges of our world.

I look forward to a return to activities that have been postponed and canceled over the last two years. Our spring commencement will recognize the academic achievements of over 1,550 students who have earned their degrees. Every graduate represents our commitment to student success and community engagement.

Steven R. Angle Chancellor