A Tradition of Generosity
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga traces its history back to 1886, when the first class of students enrolled at Chattanooga University.
The 1886 Society recognizes donors who make cash gifts of $2,500 or more each fiscal year (July 1-June 30). 1886 members continue a tradition of philanthropy that supports students and enriches the UTC experience today and tomorrow.
The 1886 Society builds on the legacy of philanthropists who believed in the potential of Chattanooga’s university, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.
Membership Benefits
Personalized Support
A Dedicated Staff Liaison in the UTC Advancement Office
Exclusive Invitations
Invitations to Special Events and Exclusive Campus Engagements
Stay Informed
Campus News Including How Your Gift Impacts Our Students
Welcome Gift
A Custom Welcome Gift
Impact Stories
Thanks to the support of 1886 Society members, students have been able to pursue their academic dreams without financial barriers.
Your contributions are not just gifts—they are the foundation for future leaders, innovators, and changemakers at UTC.
Three Decades of Support for UTC
Through his time, talent and treasure, David Higney (’88) has been giving back to his alma mater for more than 30 years, echoing what it means to be a Moc.
Read More
From Vietnam to Space: A Journey of Resilience and Exploration
A firm believer in giving back, Cap Nguyen (’80) holds a belief deeply rooted in the generosity and support he himself received.
Read More
Glenn (’79) and MiDori Allen Establish Endowed Athletics Scholarship
A love for UTC and a passion for football and basketball inspired Glenn Allen (’79), and his wife MiDori, to support UTC for over four decades and many more years to come.
Read more
Innovation Through Philanthropy
Graduating from UTC in 1992, Richard X. Zhang’s profound connection with UTC and its Honors College has grown from graduate to donor, creating an indelible impact for our students.
Read morePlanned gifts offer a powerful way to extend your generosity beyond your lifetime, creating a legacy that ripples through generations of Mocs. Even a smaller planned gift can have a significant impact.
Unlike a cash donation, a planned gift comes from your assets, not your income. It can be a bequest in your will, a remainder trust, a life insurance policy or even retirement plan assets. Each gift is unique, just like you, and offers its own advantages.
Join a community of dedicated donors who share a passion for UTC’s future.
A Gift that Keeps on Giving
Learn how Dr. Chris and Trip Smith plan to support UTC’s School of Nursing long after Chris’ teaching career ends.
Read the Smiths’ Story here
A Beloved Bequest
Hear how one of the largest gifts to UTC’s library came from a love of reading, numbers and a younger brother named Charles.
See pam’s story hereJoin the 1886 Society
Our team is here to help you align your passions with meaningful opportunities at UTC. Together, we can build on the legacy of those who believed in the potential of Chattanooga’s university and ensure a bright future for generations to come.
Make Your Gift Online Other Ways to GiveFor personalized assistance and to explore how your contribution can make a difference, contact:
Shannon Edmondson
Director of Annual Giving
423.425.5308
shannon-edmondson@utc.edu
