UT Southern’s Office of Career Development has expanded its services to give students greater access to professional resources. During the summer, Director Stephen McBride (Martin ’16; Knoxville ’19), in collaboration with Shelley Sarmiento of The Nest Spirit Shop, created Flight Path Studio—a career closet stocked with new and gently used business attire available to students at no cost. Students can keep the clothing for use in job interviews, internships, banquets and other professional settings. By removing barriers to dressing for success, this allows students to focus on building confidence, making strong first impressions and taking the next steps in their career journeys.
Education Chair Selected for National fellowship
Daniel McMasters, chair of UT Southern’s School of Education, has been named a 2025 Impact Academy Fellow by Deans for Impact, a national organization dedicated to strengthening teacher preparation. He is one of only 18 leaders from across the country chosen for the 10th cohort. In his role, McMasters has advanced programs that prepare practice-ready educators through mentorship, data-informed instruction and close collaboration with area school districts. The yearlong fellowship will connect him with peers nationwide for monthly learning sessions, coaching and shared problem-solving to address challenges in the educator-preparation field. This opportunity reflects the collaborative work of the campus to equip future teachers who will make a difference in classrooms throughout the region and across the state.
Athletics Creative Work Earns National Awards
Jensen Harper, digital media strategist, earned six honors in the 2024-25 College Sports Communicators Creative and Digital Design Contest, including four Best of NAIA awards. She was recognized with Photo of the Year for capturing a dramatic men’s soccer game winner, two Gameday Graphics awards for designs featuring men’s tennis and women’s track, and an Individual Awards, Milestones & Records graphic celebrating a cheer athlete’s Athlete of the Year recognition. The two Gameday Graphics entries also placed sixth and 13th nationally in the college division.
