When someone else’s misfortune reminds us of our own good fortune, giving back is the right thing to do. It’s also a part of the UT mission—to provide outreach that makes a difference in people’s lives—that we alumni are taught to value.

This issue of Tennessee Alumnus brings stories of UT alumni, expertise and contributions to making a difference, starting with our cover story on the historic Smoky Mountain wildfires of 2016.