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.

Joining the 1886 Society is my way of honoring the professors who believed in me and the experiences that built my confidence and prepared me for my career. By giving back, I’m helping ensure that today’s students have access to the same life-changing education and support that shaped my journey. Supporting UTC is an investment in people, potential and the future.

Kim Hulvey

Class of 2006 and 2010

Director, UTC Alumni Board

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.

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.

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.

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.

Planned 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 here

Join 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 Give

For 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