Latest Issue
Winter 2025
I never imagined I’d be writing this letter, and truthfully, it’s one I’d rather not be penning. Jennifer Sicking, our brilliant editor and the heart and soul of Our Tennessee, is on extended medical leave. Our Tennessee is truly her labor of love, and each edition bears her passion, dedication and unmatched talent. She has set a standard of excellence that’s hard to match, and we eagerly look forward to her return, knowing that no one captures the spirit of our UT family quite like she does.
In her absence, I feel privileged to step in and help carry forward her vision, even if temporarily. This issue’s theme—public service— feels especially relevant as I write this letter on her behalf. Jennifer has always brought stories of service to life in the pages of Our Tennessee, showcasing the dedication of our faculty, staff, students and alumni who make a difference every day. Now, as we honor their commitment to serving others, I find myself, in a small way, doing the same by supporting Jennifer and helping ensure her work continues seamlessly. Thank you for being part of this journey, for your patience as we temporarily stand in the gap, and for keeping Jennifer in your thoughts and prayers. We can’t wait to welcome her back to her rightful place at the helm of Our Tennessee.
With gratitude,
Melissa Tindell, Assistant Vice President,
Communications on behalf of Jennifer Sicking,
Executive Editor
When the Waters Rose
Hurricane Helene brought record floods to Tennessee. Public officials, teamwork, and community spirit helped save lives and set the path…
IPS Training Programs Help State Officials Work Better, Smarter
For years, IPS agencies have offered training opportunities to help state and municipal officials like Gary Behler get off to…
Heath Shuler Believes in Giving Back
University of Tennessee football great and former U.S. Rep. Heath Shuler reflects on the importance of public service.
UT Alumni Make Their Mark in Legislative Roles
From Capitol Hill to state agencies, graduates leverage their University of Tennessee education and experience to advocate for Tennessee communities.
Blossoms of Hope
A close bond with an aunt and uncle who owned a flower shop set Amy Elder Gammel on a path…
Getting to Know ALICE
ALICE families serve our communities daily yet live paycheck-to-paycheck. Explore Cairo Douglas’ journey and the initiatives making a lasting impact…
Championing Children’s Health
UTHSC rheumatologist Terri Finkel successfully advocated for a 'life-changing' law to help Tennessee's smallest residents.
Partnerships for Regional Impact
As CEO of Giles County Chamber of Commerce for 10 years, Jessie Parker is helping small businesses and entrepreneurs set…
Advocate for Change
UT Chattanooga senior Mateo Jimenez discovered his passion during community service work outside of UTC: broadband access for underserved communities.
A Car Full of Grace
Helping Mamas Knoxville supports East Tennessee families, providing 1.5M essential items like diapers, formula, and hygiene products to those in…
At UT, Public Service is More Than a Mission
At UT, public service is more than a mission—it's a calling. It is at the heart of what makes us…
MTAS Traces Its Roots to Post-WWII
UT Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS) was established in 1949 to assist city governments across the state.
Finding My Spark
UT alumnus Julia Law found her calling in political science through the recommendations of a professor and a government relations…
“Find Your UT” Tour Inspires Students Across Tennessee
UT System President Randy Boyd concluded the 2024 "Find Your UT" tour, visiting 14 high schools to share opportunities available…
Partnerships for a Stronger Tennessee
The Vol community united to support those impacted by Hurricane Helene, including fundraising and providing disaster veterinary services.
McKnight Honored at White House Event
UTC Center for Wellbeing Director Megan McKnight, along with nearly 250 others, was honored at the White House for efforts…
UTS Hosts Successful AgDay Event
UT Southern recently hosted its first Agriculture and Natural Resources Day, celebrating the region's rich agricultural and ecological landscape.
UTM Enrollment Grows
UT Martin enrollment for the fall 2024 semester reached 7,507 students, the highest enrollment at the university since 2012.
Audiology and Speech Pathology Celebrates Opening
The UTHSC Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology held a grand opening for its new state-of-the-art renovated space in the…
4-H Hall of Fame Contributions
UT Knoxville alumnus Ruth McQueen was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame for her lifetime of contributions.
MTAS Wraps up 75th Anniversary Celebration
The UT Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS) held three events across the state to celebrate its 75th anniversary.
