On April 12, the fifth annual Big Orange Awards Bash brought together alumni chapter and council leaders from across the country to recognize outstanding accomplishments from the past year. This annual event is held in conjunction with the university’s Volunteer Leadership Weekend, when leaders from the Alumni Board of Directors, chapter boards, special interest and diversity councils, and the Young Alumni Council return to Rocky Top for a weekend full of activities.
By helping to bring together UT alumni and friends for programs, networking events, community service, and fundraising for student scholarships, these leaders bring the Volunteer spirit to life by being proud, involved, and invested in their alma mater.
“The alumni chapters and councils are instrumental in involving Vols from throughout the country in the life of the university,” said Lee Patouillet, associate vice chancellor of alumni affairs. “They serve as brand ambassadors, help recruit students, raise valuable dollars for student scholarships, and provide a way for thousands of Vols to stay connected.”
Chip Bryant, vice chancellor for advancement, noted that chapter and alumni scholarships have grown 376 percent in four years. “That accomplishment is a testament to the support, passion, and dedication of our alumni leaders.” said Bryant. “They are playing a critical role in advancing our university and enhancing the Volunteer experience for our students.”
Awards given at the Big Orange Awards Bash:
Outstanding Alumni Chapters
- Atlanta
- Birmingham
- Central Savannah River Area
- Charleston
- Charlotte
- Cincinnati
- Columbia (South Carolina)
- Houston
- Knoxville
- Memphis
- Nashville
- New York City
- North Alabama
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Richmond
- Seattle
- Southern Middle Tennessee
- Southwest Florida
- Sullivan County, Tennessee
- Washington County, Tennessee
- Washington, DC
- West Palm Beach
Accomplished Alumni Chapters
- Chicago
- North Atlanta
- St. Louis
- Tampa Bay
Other Awards
Best Use of Social Media: Washington, DC
Best Event: Charlotte (2019 Football Season Kickoff Weekend events and Big Orange Tailgate)
Rising Star: Southwest Florida
Student Engager of the Year: Austin
Most Collaborative Chapter: Central Savannah River Area
Most Philanthropic Chapter: Charleston
Special Interest Diversity Council Alumni Scholarship Challenge Awards
- Most Donors—Army ROTC Council
100 Percent Giving
- Atlanta
- Bay Area
- Birmingham
- Central Ohio
- Central Savannah River Area
- Charleston
- Charlotte
- Chattanooga
- Cincinnati
- Columbia
- Dallas/Ft. Worth
- Houston
- Knoxville
- Memphis
- Miami/Ft. Lauderdale
- Nashville
- New York City
- North Alabama
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Richmond
- Rocky Mountain
- San Diego
- Seattle
- Southern California
- Southern Middle Tennessee
- Southwest Florida
- Sullivan County, Tennessee
- Tallahassee
- Triangle Area
- Washington County, Tennessee
- Washington, DC
- West Palm Beach
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CONTACT:
Brooks Clark (865-974-5471, nclark5@utk.edu)