For Doug (‘06) and Chrissie Fisher, giving back means helping the next generation find opportunities of its own.

Establishing a planned gift benefiting UTC football, men’s and women’s basketball and men’s and women’s golf, the Fishers’ gift reflects their shared commitment to UTC and to student-athletes.

Both Doug and Chrissie have ties to UTC. Chrissie attended UTC before completing her degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She went on to build a distinguished 33-year career with Merck Pharmaceuticals.

Doug first arrived at UTC as a football player, recruited from Brainerd High School. Injuries ended his playing career and scholarship, leading him to enter the workforce while taking classes when he could. Nearing 50, with children approaching college age, he returned to UTC and completed his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

That persistence mirrored a wide-ranging career spanning public service, health care and business development, as well as entrepreneurship.

Each program included in the Fishers’ support holds meaning. Football reflects Doug’s experience as a former player, while men’s and women’s basketball are longtime favorites. During Doug’s entrepreneurial years, his company partnered with UTC Athletics, including the Mocs’ 1997 Sweet 16 team led by Coach Mack McCarthy. Their support for golf honors their friendship with the late Dr. Reed Sanderlin, a UTC English professor who also coached the men’s golf team.

“We both really wanted to do something that could have an impact, pay it forward and give back to those who helped us through life,” Doug said.

Planned giving allowed the Fishers to care for their family, prepare for retirement and support future student-athletes. They shared their story to encourage others to consider it.

“It’s easy, uncomplicated and a great way to make a difference,” Doug said. “Literally anybody can do it!”

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