The event is a collaboration among the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, the ������� College of Arts & Sciences and the ������� Turner Center for Rural Leadership. The program is also supported by the Dr. Charles D. and Tammy B. Haney Faculty Development Fund.

Through discussion and interactive exercises, participants will explore five central themes: the historical presence of incivility; how today’s environment differs from earlier periods; the causes of polarization and communication breakdown; strategies for communicating across disagreement; and ways to practice civility within communities and workplaces.

Two versions of the workshop will be offered on Monday, Oct. 5, in the Martin Hall Auditorium. Student sessions will be held at 8:00–8:50 a.m. and 9:00–9:50 a.m. A workshop designed for ������� faculty, staff and community members will be held from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

The workshops will be led by William (Bill) Lyons and Andrew (Andy) Busch of the Baker School.

Bill Lyons serves as associate director for community outreach for the Institute of American Civics and director of policy partnerships at the Baker School. He is also professor emeritus of political science at UT Knoxville. Lyons retired from the university in 2011, following more than 35 years of teaching, administrative leadership and research.

Andy Busch is the associate director and professor at the Institute of American Civics in the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. His teaching and research focus on American political institutions, elections, and public policy. He has authored, co-authored or edited more than two dozen books.

“Universities should be places where people learn not only how to develop and defend ideas, but also how to listen, disagree thoughtfully and remain in relationship with people who see the world differently,” said Prentice Chandler, Ph.D., provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs and student experience. “This collaboration amongst universities allows us to bring practical tools for civil discourse to our students and employees while modeling the kind of partnership and engagement we want to strengthen across our campus and communities.”

The event reflects �������’s commitment to creating opportunities for thoughtful dialogue, civic engagement and stronger communities through education and partnership.

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The ������� provides an exceptional educational experience that empowers students to discover their potential, serve their communities and lead meaningful lives. Located in Pulaski, Tennessee, ������� offers personalized learning, hands-on experiences and a close-knit campus community while serving southern Middle Tennessee and preparing students for success.

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Celebrating the five-year anniversary of becoming �������, Homecoming 2026 allows the institution to reflect on the 156-year history of campus and generations of students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members who have shaped the legacy.   

This year’s Vintage Varsity  theme celebrates the enduring traditions, stories and school spirit that connect generations of Firehawks. Homecoming week will feature a variety of events and activities throughout campus, including competitions, a talent show, carnival, alumni recognition dinner, volleyball game, and alumni and family picnic.�� 

Events include: 

• All Week: Flame’s Flashback Finds (students only), campus wide 
  • Students can participate in a scavenger hunt featuring vintage-themed finds and campus traditions.��
• Oct. 19: Campus Banner Competition Kick-Off (students only), 9 a.m., campus wide 
  • Students will compete in a campus banner competition throughout Homecoming week.�� 
• Oct. 21: Day of Giving, all day, Campus Green 
  • The annual giving event will support the people, programs and places that make ������� special. Community members, businesses and alumni can show their support by making a gift.�� 
• Oct. 21: Southern Spotlight Talent Show, 6 p.m., Martin Hall 
  • Students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to enjoy a night of ������� talent.�� 
• Oct. 22: Carnival on the Campus Green, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Campus Green 
  • The event will feature an afternoon of games, music, food and Firehawk spirit at the Carnival on the Campus Green for the ������� community.��
• Oct. 23: Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni Dinner, 5 p.m., Mule Barn 
  • ������� will recognize Hall of Fame inductees and Distinguished Alumni for their leadership and service. Purchase a ticket to the dinner .��
• Oct. 23: Firehawks Homecoming Volleyball Game, 6 p.m., Curry Athletic Complex 
  • During halftime, ������� will announce the Homecoming Court, campus banner competition winner and winners of the Flame’s Flashback Finds scavenger hunt. The first 50 students to arrive will receive free Chick-fil-A.�� 
• Oct. 24: Alumni and Family Picnic, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Campus Green 
  • Students, faculty, staff and alumni can gather on the campus green for food trucks, games and friends before cheering on the Firehawks at athletic events like tennis, swimming and volleyball.�� 

“Alumni are an important part of ������� and its history,” said Chancellor Melinda Arnold. “We’re so excited to welcome our alumni family back to campus for a week full of activities, celebration and recognition.”  

“We are very excited about the opportunity to have our alumni reconnect with campus,” said Lydia Smith, MBA, assistant director of alumni engagement. “Homecoming week will be filled with excitement, and I’m especially looking forward to our Alumni & Family Picnic! As an alumna myself, I can’t wait to see many familiar faces and reconnect with fellow Firehawks!” 

For more information about Homecoming 2026, contact the ������� Office of Advancement.  

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The ������� provides an exceptional educational experience that empowers students to discover their potential, serve their communities, and lead meaningful lives. Located in Pulaski, Tennessee, ������� offers personalized learning, hands-on experiences, and a close-knit campus community while serving southern Middle Tennessee and preparing students for success. 

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The award dinner will take place Friday, Oct. 23, at Pulaski Mule Co Event Center (114 E. Jefferson St.). A reception will run from 5-6 p.m., with dinner and awards to follow beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person, with 100% of profits going to �������’s alumni programs.

The Distinguished Alumni Award honors alumni who have achieved excellence in their profession, demonstrated outstanding leadership and service, or made a meaningful impact in their communities while exemplifying the values of �������. 

The Distinguished Alumni Award recipients are:

• Sarah D. Suddarth, DPT, FAAOMPT, ������� ‘07
• Stanton Belford, Ph.D., ������� ‘00
• Charles D. Haney, MD, ������� ‘74, UT Knoxville ‘75, UT Health Sciences ‘79

Recognized by the ������� Alumni Board for their extraordinary service to ������� and the greater Giles County community, three recipients were recognized for the Alumni Service Award.

The Alumni Service Award recipients are:

• Sharon Harwell, ������� ‘78
• Brenda Speer, UT Knoxville ‘78
• Carol Wade, ������� ’06

“We’re excited to welcome these distinguished alumni back to campus and recognize their accomplishments,” said Kyle Hensley, vice chancellor of advancement. “These alumni have had a positive impact on their communities and we are proud to have them as part of the ������� Alumni family.”

The 2026 ������� Athletic Hall of Fame Class honors an outstanding group of former student-athletes, coaches, teams and national championship teams whose accomplishments helped shape the proud tradition of Martin Methodist and ������� athletics, elevating the institution’s tradition of excellence.

The 2026 Hall of Fame Class includes:

• James Justice, men’s basketball, ������� ‘12
• 2016 National Championship Clay Target team
• Travis Garcia, baseball, ������� ‘11
• Karen Hargrove Whidby, softball, ������� ‘06
• Millene Cabral, women’s soccer, ������� ‘19
• Sydney Watson, softball, ������� ’19, posthumous recognition

In addition to the Hall of Fame inductees, ������� Athletics will honor the memory of former softball student-athlete Sydney Watson, ������� ‘19, whose legacy of service, courage and sacrifice continues to inspire the Firehawk family.

“There is a renewed energy across our athletic department right now, and what better way to celebrate our future than by honoring the foundation of our past,” said Brandie Paul, vice chancellor and director of athletics. “The return of the Hall of Fame represents a major milestone for �������. It gives our alumni a reason to come home, gives our fans a chance to celebrate the greats, and shows our current student-athletes the height of what is possible in a Firehawk uniform.”

Registration deadline for the event is Sep. 30, with more information .

������� the �������

The ������� provides an exceptional educational experience that empowers students to discover their potential, serve their communities and lead meaningful lives. Located in Pulaski, Tennessee, ������� offers personalized learning, hands-on experiences and a close-knit campus community while serving southern Middle Tennessee and preparing students for success.

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Throughout the day, students, faculty, staff and community members are encouraged to wear pink, representing Parton’s signature style and joyful spirit. Photo opportunities, decorations and banners will be displayed throughout campus for students and campus community members to participate in the celebration. Activities will be held at the Student Life House (420 W. Madison St., Pulaski, Tenn.).

Dolly Day activities include:

• Second Street Coffee House pop-up tent
  • 7:30–10 a.m., Student Life House
  • Serving hot coffee, cold brews, matcha and Dolly-inspired beverages
• Imagination Library Donation Booth, in partnership with the Giles County Chamber of Commerce
  • 7:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Student Life HouseAccepting cash, check, Venmo or PayPal donations
  • The non-profit program was launched by Parton to inspire young children to read by providing free books each month to children from birth to age five
• Chalk the Walk
  • 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m., W. Madison St.
  • Community members will be provided with pink chalk and encouraged to draw butterflies, their favorite Parton quote or anything else to help honor her legacy
• Chick-fil-A pop-up tent
  • 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or until sold out, Campus GreenSelling chicken sandwiches, chips and more
  • Presale purchases will be available, along with on-site purchases

������� encourages all campus and community members to gather and celebrate the lasting memory and legacy of Dolly Parton.

������� the �������

The ������� provides an exceptional educational experience that empowers students to discover their potential, serve their communities and lead meaningful lives. Located in Pulaski, Tennessee, ������� offers personalized learning, hands-on experiences and a close-knit campus community while serving southern Middle Tennessee and preparing students for success.

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Genesis and Katherine were recognized during a luncheon at ������� attended by UT System President Randy Boyd, ������� Provost Prentice Chandler, state Reps. Mark White and Clay Doggett, state Rep.-elect Noah Smith, university leaders and members of the campus community. The cousins will begin classes at ������� this fall, with Katherine studying nursing and Genesis studying English. Their arrival represents an opportunity not only for the two students but also for the Emberá Purú community they call home. Genesis and Katherine will be able to take new resources back to their village, including educational and professional knowledge they have not previously had access to.

“We thought to ourselves, it would be great if a few talented, smart and determined young people could receive an education they could utilize back in their home village,” Boyd said. “So that’s the hope. We’re counting on these two young ladies to go back to their village and do just that; provide resources and educate members of their community. Thanks to Genesis and Katherine for being the inspiration.”

White, who first introduced Genesis and Katherine to Boyd during a 2022 visit to Panama, said the students’ arrival represents the fulfillment of a vision that began during that visit.

“We’re here to celebrate these two young ladies, thanks to Randy Boyd, Krissy DeAlejandro and the Boyd Foundation for making all of this possible,” White said. “This opportunity began with a simple belief that education could open a door for these young women and their community. Today, we are seeing that belief become reality.”

The luncheon also provided an opportunity for university leaders and community partners to celebrate those who helped make the students’ enrollment possible, including Cup of Cold Water Ministries, which has worked with the Emberá Purú community for nearly two decades, building trusted relationships with families while encouraging educational opportunities for young people throughout the community.

“This opportunity is important to me because I want to be a help in my community and a translator in the future, teaching children and my community,” said Genesis. “President Randy Boyd, I want to thank you for this opportunity. My mother said that you have opened to me a door so now I’m here, and my purpose is to complete my duty as a student, daughter and member of my community.”

“I am so happy for this opportunity, and it is so important for me because I want to study nursing,” said Katherine. “I would like to be a kind nurse in the future, helping my people and my community. So, President Boyd, thank you for the opportunity you have given us to study at the �������.”

Genesis and Katherine presented President Boyd with tokens of their appreciation, including a bag of coffee beans and a mug, both curated from their village in Panama. As they begin their studies, Genesis and Katherine will become part of the ������� community while continuing to carry the experiences, culture and hopes of their home village with them.

Classes for the fall 2026 semester begin Aug. 19.

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The ������� provides an exceptional educational experience that empowers students to discover their potential, serve their communities and lead meaningful lives. Located in Pulaski, Tennessee, ������� offers personalized learning, hands-on experiences and a close-knit campus community while serving southern Middle Tennessee and preparing students for success.

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A highlight of the week will be Southern Spark, a community-wide celebration on Tuesday, Aug. 18, beginning at 6 p.m. This free, on campus event is open to the public, featuring a fun-filled schedule designed to create life-long memories.

Activities include:

• 6 p.m.: More than 10 food trucks located on W. Madison Street
• 7 p.m.: Burning Las Vegas Band
• 8:45 p.m.: Firework Show on the Campus Green
• $1,000 cash giveaway
• Community Expo, hosted by the Giles County Chamber of Commerce

“Welcome Week is one of the most exciting times of the year on our campus,” ������� Chancellor Melinda Arnold said. “We are thrilled to bring our neighbors and campus family together for our annual concert and fireworks on the Green, branded this year as ‘Southern Spark.’ Connecting our students with the incredible community that surrounds them is at the heart of what we do, and we can’t wait to kick off the new academic year together in such a dynamic way.”

Families and friends are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy this festive evening together.

The full Firehawk Welcome Week schedule is available here.

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The closure will affect West Madison Street between 4th and 5th Streets. Access to university facilities, parking areas, events, and services will remain available through existing campus entrances. The change primarily affects through traffic that currently travels across campus.

“As our campus continues to evolve, we have a responsibility to create an environment that prioritizes the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors,” said Chancellor Melinda S. Arnold. “This project reflects a thoughtful, long-term investment in the future of ������� and our commitment to creating a campus that is safe, welcoming, and connected.”

The closure is part of a broader vision to reduce vehicle-pedestrian conflicts in one of the most heavily traveled areas of campus while creating a more walkable and cohesive campus core.

To help inform the decision, ������� engaged , an engineering and planning firm with a local presence in Pulaski, to conduct an independent traffic study. The study evaluated existing traffic patterns and the potential impacts of closing the roadway and determined that local traffic would not be adversely affected by the closure. Findings from the study were shared with the , including the , as part of the review and planning process.

Throughout the planning effort, the university has worked closely with local government leaders, law enforcement, emergency management officials, and fire and rescue personnel to ensure the transition is coordinated and that emergency access remains available at all times.

“This has been a collaborative effort involving university leadership, community partners, and local officials,” Arnold said. “We are grateful for the support and engagement of our partners as we work together to create a safer environment while maintaining convenient access throughout our community.”

Motorists will be directed to alternate routes through updated signage and wayfinding measures. The university will provide detailed maps, frequently asked questions, and ongoing updates through a dedicated information webpage in advance of the closure.

The project supports several long-term institutional priorities, including improving campus safety, enhancing the student experience, strengthening campus security, and creating infrastructure that supports future growth and development.

Community members, visitors, and campus stakeholders are encouraged to monitor university communications throughout the summer as additional information becomes available.

Additional details, maps, and frequently asked questions are available on the website.

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The ������� Advisory Board will hold a meeting on July 23, 2026, at 1 p.m. (CDT) in the Reveille House in Pulaski, Tennessee. Agenda topics to include Chancellor’s remarks and updates from the leadership team in respective areas.

For more information, please contact Kyle Hensley, Vice Chancellor for Advancement, at 931-424-2069. 

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The camps are open to middle and high school students and emphasize small-group instruction, interactive learning and direct engagement with faculty. Programs will take place in ������� classrooms, labs and campus facilities, giving participants a firsthand look at academic programs and a chance to experience university life.

Camp offerings include:

NOVA Entrepreneurship Boot Camp (June 8–11)
High school students will develop business ideas, conduct market research, build branding strategies and present their concepts in a final pitch presentation with guidance from mentors. Cost: Free.

Future Firehawk Nursing Camp (June 15–17 or June 29-July 1)
High school juniors and seniors will train in �������’s Nursing Simulation Lab, practice patient care skills, earn CPR certification and visit Southern Tennessee Regional Health System to explore health care careers. Cost: $20.

Project Firehawk: Soar Into STEM (June 15–19)
Students ages 6 to 16 will participate in interactive math and science experiments, collaborative projects and faculty-led activities in the Andrews Science Building. Cost: $175.

Registration information and additional details are available here. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.

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All sessions will be held in the Gault Fine Arts Recital Hall on the ������� campus (433 W. Madison Street, Pulaski). Finalist names and background information will be provided one day prior to each public forum and will be available on the .

Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. The forums will also be streamed live on the  for faculty, staff and students to view, and will also be archived and available for viewing by the general public at the conclusion of the final forum.  Opportunities to provide feedback will be available on the  when interviews begin.

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