UTC is expanding its reach by partnering with the Southeast Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability (SETAAAD) to bring evidence-based programs to senior centers in Bledsoe, Bradley, Grundy, Hamilton, Marion, McMinn, Meigs, Polk, Rhea and Sequatchie counties. SETAAAD has a wide array of programs available, covering topics such as chronic disease management, physical activity and caregiver support. UTC will be central to delivering and expanding those programs, including offering valuable learning opportunities for students from various disciplines. The UTC interprofessional initiative is being spearheaded by UC Foundation Assistant Professor Kristi Wick (nursing), Associate Professor Erin Melhorn (occupational therapy) and Associate Professor Cathy Scott (social work). “We have enjoyed a great collaborative relationship with the Area Agency on Aging for years now,” Wick says. “Being able to help meet their needs and foster student development and faculty engagement has
been a real asset to this partnership.”
Lori Mann Bruce Named Chancellor
UTC’s new chancellor is a Tennessee native with nearly 30 years of experience in higher education. Lori Mann Bruce grew up on a Lincoln County farm and earned engineering degrees at the University of Alabama in Huntsville and Georgia Institute of Technology. She was previously provost and vice president for academic affairs at Tennessee Technological University, overseeing all academic operations, research and strategic planning efforts. “I will ensure that student success is at the heart of everything we do—from ensuring access and support to helping students graduate career ready and equipped to make meaningful contributions in a rapidly evolving workforce,” she says. Bruce began her career teaching electrical and computer engineering at Mississippi State University, where she served in several leadership roles, including associate vice president for academic affairs and dean of the graduate school. Her appointment at UTC started June 30.
Transformational Gift Supports Entrepreneurship
UTC’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) has received a $5 million commitment from U.S. Xpress co-founder Max Fuller (Chattanooga ’75) to name the CIE and support its mission of student learning, research and collaboration. The gift, the largest in the center’s history, will expand opportunities for UTC students, faculty and staff to engage in hands-on innovation and entrepreneurial exploration.
UTC Named Top 10 for Military Student Support
For the first time in school history, UTC placed among the nation’s Top 10 large public universities in the Military Friendly® Schools rankings, a designation that recognizes excellence in creating sustainable and meaningful educational paths for military-connected students. UTC earned Top 10 Gold Military Friendly® School status for 2025-26, ranking No. 10 nationally and first in the Southeast Region. The university also was designated as a Military Spouse Friendly® School for its continued efforts in supporting military families.
