News Summary
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has announced a $5 million donation from Max Fuller for the expansion of its Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. This funding will significantly enhance the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, increasing its size and improving educational facilities. Notable features of the expansion include advanced classrooms, simulation labs, and an auditorium. The initiative aims to prepare students for successful careers while strengthening ties with local businesses. The groundbreaking ceremony highlighted the community’s support for the project, showcasing UTC’s commitment to excellence in business education.
Chattanooga, TN
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) has received a significant boost to its educational facilities through a generous $5 million donation from Max Fuller, cofounder of U.S. Xpress. This substantial funding will be allocated towards the expansion of UTC’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, marking a pivotal development for the institution.
In recognition of Fuller’s contribution, the center will be renamed in his honor, further solidifying its importance to the region’s business and academic landscape. A groundbreaking ceremony commemorating the expansion of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business took place on March 3, 2025, attracting notable figures and stakeholders in the community.
The expansion initiative is aimed at nearly doubling the size of the Rollins College of Business, introducing a total of 81,000 square feet of new space that will seamlessly connect all four stories of the college. The project is designed to enhance the educational experiences offered at UTC, providing more opportunities for student engagement and collaboration with local businesses.
Michael Jones, the Interim Dean of the Rollins College of Business, highlighted how the expansion will transform the academic environment, emphasizing its critical role in mentoring students and enhancing their practical experiences. Chancellor Robert Dooley also underscored the initiative’s benefits, noting its anticipated impact on academic instruction and student involvement, as well as its potential to foster stronger ties with the business sector.
The newly planned facilities will incorporate specialized classrooms, advanced simulation labs, a data visualization lab, and modern collaboration areas. Additionally, an auditorium will be constructed to support a variety of academic events. The expansion also aims to bolster critical student services such as advising and career placement, ensuring that the University remains a leader in business education.
UTC is committed to preparing its students for successful careers in a competitive job market. This expansion will enhance the college’s capacity to provide a comprehensive education that meets the evolving needs of today’s businesses. Expected to be completed by Spring 2028, the project represents a vital investment in the future of both UTC and the broader Chattanooga community.
Over the years, UTC has played a crucial role in shaping the local workforce. The expansion underscores the university’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation in business education. With support from business leaders like Max Fuller and aligned with the needs of the job market, UTC is poised to enhance its educational offerings and keep pace with industry trends.
The significance of this donation cannot be overstated, as it reflects a growing recognition of the importance of entrepreneurship and innovation in shaping economic prosperity. The involvement of influential community leaders during the groundbreaking ceremony indicates strong support for the project and the university’s strategic vision.
As UTC prepares to move forward with these plans, the focus will remain on creating a state-of-the-art educational environment that not only attracts students but also equips them with the skills required to excel in their future careers. The investment in the Rollins College of Business is a testament to UTC’s ongoing commitment to excellence and leadership in business education within Tennessee.
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga businessman donates $5M to UTC
- Wikipedia: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Local 3 News: UTC to hold groundbreaking ceremony for Gary W. Rollins College of Business expansion
- Google Search: University of Tennessee Chattanooga
- UTC Echo: UTC breaks ground on major expansion on Rollins College of Business
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business Education
- Local 3 News: Gary W. Rollins College of Business plans expansion at UTC
- Google News: UTC Gary W Rollins College of Business
