The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga (UTC) stands as a prominent public institution, serving over 12,000 students with a rich history deeply rooted in its community. Established in 1886, UTC today embodies a spirit of growth and public service, guided by its motto "Faciemus" (We Will Make/Do) and supported by a significant $0.2 billion endowment.

UTC's journey is one of remarkable evolution, beginning as the private and racially exclusive Chattanooga University in 1886. It quickly expanded its reach, merging with the Athens-based Grant Memorial University in 1889 to become the Chattanooga campus of U.S. Grant Memorial University. This initial phase set the stage for its continued development, leading to its renaming as the University of Chattanooga in 1907.

The spirit of integration and expansion continued through the mid-20th century, notably with the merger of Zion College (which had been established in 1949 and later became Chattanooga City College) in 1964. The most pivotal transformation occurred in 1969, when the University of Chattanooga joined the esteemed University of Tennessee system, officially becoming the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. This integration solidified its role as a key public university, committed to accessible education, while its private endowment continues to be managed by the University of Chattanooga Foundation Inc., created in the same year.