UTC Alumni Award Winners
Hiren Desai (’91), Tennessee Sen. Bo Watson (’83) and Hallie DeHart (’18) have been recognized by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga as the 2025 Distinguished Alumni, Outstanding Service and GOLD Excellence Award recipients, respectively.
Presented by UTC’s Division of Advancement, the Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest annual commendation presented to an alumnus or alumna and recognizes an individual who demonstrates extraordinary service to their alma mater, field and community.
The Outstanding Service Award recognizes community leaders who demonstrate exemplary personal service to UTC and the community. The GOLD Excellence Award recognizes an alumnus or alumna who graduated within the last decade and has exemplified early success and contributions within their profession or community.
“These three alumni are wonderful examples of the success and impact our graduates are making in their fields, on campus, in the community and beyond,” said UTC Chancellor Lori Bruce. “They are making their alma mater proud, and we are thrilled to recognize their talent and achievements through these awards.”
Hiren Desai is the chief executive officer for 3H Group Incorporated, a company he founded in 2000 after beginning his career in hospitality in 1993. Over the past three decades, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision, transforming 3H Group into a recognized leader in the hospitality industry. His success has earned accolades such as Developer of the Year from Marriott, Hilton and most recently Hyatt.
Desai has also ventured into the manufacturing industry as an entrepreneur, further diversifying his business portfolio. His entrepreneurial spirit drives him not only to succeed in business but also to give back to his community, including significant contributions to UTC, Children’s Hospital and others.
“Using some of the foundations I grew up with … never forget where you came from,” Desai said. “Give back to what helped you get where you are. That’s it. That’s short and sweet.”
Sen. Bo Watson was first elected to Tennessee’s 104th General Assembly in 2004. He is currently serving his fourth year of his third four-year term. He previously served as Speaker Pro Tempore (2011-2016) and currently serves as the chairman of the Finance, Ways and Means committee. In addition to his public service, he has also been a practicing physical therapist for over three decades and currently serves as the director of sports medicine and therapy services at HCA Parkridge Medical Center in Chattanooga.
Watson was no stranger to UTC even before he enrolled as a student. He grew up attending football games on Chamberlain Field with his father and supporting his older sisters, who were University students. He went on to graduate magna cum laude from UTC with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology, and continued to UT Health Sciences Center, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (’84). He continues to give back to his community in many ways, having served on The Baylor School Board of Trustees and Alumni Association, the University of Tennessee Alumni Association, the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, the YMCA North River Branch and more.
“People often think that all the University is looking for is a financial commitment, when the most valuable treasure that any of us has is our time,” Watson said. “I’m very proud of the advocacy and influence I’ve been able to have on the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. My DNA is invested in this school.”
Hallie DeHart is the founder of Chêne Blanc, a thriving home décor and gift shop. She is a visionary entrepreneur whose passion for creativity, community and innovation has made a lasting impact in the Ooltewah area. DeHart’s strong foundation in business, leadership and community engagement has propelled her success. Her store is more than just a retail space—it’s a hub for connection, collaboration and support for local artisans and vendors.
DeHart’s dedication to collaboration is evident in her efforts to build relationships with other small businesses and support local causes such as CHI Memorial’s Pink Gala silent auction and Ooltewah’s bingo card initiative. She also introduced an innovative bridal registry service to Chattanooga, enhancing the customer experience with personalized consultations and local gift delivery. With a background that includes experience at McKee Foods, Unum and Sanofi, DeHart brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her entrepreneurial endeavors.
“I think as women in general, we don’t give ourselves credit for all the hard work that we put into things; it’s just part of the job,” DeHart said. “It’s really cool to be acknowledged for all of that hard work that you’ve done and to give yourself a moment to reflect.”
Desai, Watson and DeHart will be recognized at various campus events over the next year to celebrate their honors and commitment to UTC.