More than 100 family members, students, and faculty were on hand Saturday for the dedication of Stokely Hall in a ceremony that honored the family’s legacy of support for UT.
“This beautiful new building is but the latest sign of the time, efforts, and contributions that the Stokely family has made to UT,” said Chancellor Beverly Davenport. “Being able to have a residence such as this, and to offer students the amenities this building has, is a cornerstone of empowering them to be their best. After all, a residence hall isn’t just where you sleep, it’s where you study.”
William B. Stokely III was on hand for the event, telling stories about his family’s connection to the university, which dates back more than a century.
“Education has always been very important for our family,” said Stokely. “It is the key to achievement, to fulfilling life’s goals. That is why we have always had a strong sense of connection to this university, and why we continue to support it.”
The building is the fourth new residence hall to open in the past few years, something Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Life Frank Cuevas said shows the commitment of the university to its students.
Related: Stokely Hall Helping Transform Student Life, WBIR
“This facility will help us continue to draw the best and brightest,” said Cuevas. “It’s all part of an effort to create what we call a ‘Tennessee Home’ for students.”
Several notable UT figures were on hand for the ceremony, including former President Joe Johnson and former Chancellor Jimmy G. Cheek.
Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony during which the Stokely family was presented with a montage photo as a gift, attendees were given a tour of the facility.