As I sat in the audience for Chancellor Steve Angle’s State of the University address this week, I couldn't help but feel immense pride and excitement for the incredible momentum we’re experiencing at UTC. Coinciding with the 138th anniversary of the University of Chattanooga's founding, this moment perfectly captured what it means to be a Moc: striving for excellence, embracing challenges and making a profound difference in the world. Today, I want to highlight some of the remarkable achievements and forward-looking initiatives taking place at UTC. It’s clear: UTC is on the move.
Record-Breaking Success Across the Board
UTC is experiencing unprecedented growth and success on several fronts. This fall, we welcomed our largest freshman class ever—2,473 students—contributing to a record enrollment of 11,834 students. Graduate student enrollment also surged by 13.7 percent, further solidifying our commitment to providing high-quality education at all levels. But it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about creating an environment where students can thrive. Our donors have stepped up in extraordinary ways, setting a new record with over $60 million in gifts this year, up 400 percent from last year’s $14.1 million, a demonstration that our alumni and stakeholders believe in the vision and leadership at UTC. These investments are vital as we continue to improve our campus infrastructure and programs.
Transformational Investments in Campus and Research
We are also making historic investments in our campus facilities, totaling over $414 million, thanks in part to the outstanding support of our Hamilton County delegation. Key projects include the construction of the Kennedy Health Sciences Building for our nursing program, an addition to Fletcher Hall for our Rollins College of Business, and a new 780-bed residence hall. These upgrades are not just bricks and mortar; they represent our commitment to providing an unparalleled educational experience and preparing students for leadership roles in their communities and beyond.
A particularly exciting development is UTC’s expanding role in leading-edge research, especially in quantum sciences and mobility technologies. With a new Quantum Center and significant federal funding—including $3.5 million for quantum research and $2.4 million for mobility research—UTC is positioning itself as a leader in these transformative fields. We recently announced our first-ever Governor’s Chair appointment in Quantum Information Science and Engineering, a prestigious role that will be shared between UTC and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This partnership underscores UTC’s critical role within the UT System and our commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation. Two new Ph.D. programs in mobility and quantum studies are in development, designed to recruit top-tier faculty and students in these areas.
Collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory
UTC’s collaboration with ORNL is also accelerating our research impact. Our faculty and students are working closely with ORNL to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from energy storage to smart transportation systems. These partnerships have already yielded significant results, including new federal grants and groundbreaking research that will shape the future of mobility and energy solutions.
A Future Full of Promise
The momentum at UTC is impressive. The investments in our campus, the record-breaking enrollment and donations, and the cutting-edge research initiatives all point to a future full of promise. But none of this would be possible without the commitment and passion of our faculty, staff, students and community partners. Together, we are building a University community that not only educates but also inspires, innovates and leads.
The energy and excitement on our campus is contagious. UTC is indeed on the move, and I couldn’t be more excited about the journey ahead. As we continue this upward trajectory, I invite you to join us, support us, and contribute to this incredible story. Go Mocs!
Randy Boyd
President, University of Tennessee System