*UPDATE: As of September 25, the VolShop has received more than 100,000 orders for the T-shirt.*
The University of Tennessee is lighting the way for the young Vol fan who made his own UT T-shirt.
In recognition of the fourth-grader’s Volunteer spirit, the university has extended an offer of honorary admission for him to join the Class of 2032. In addition, he has been awarded a four-year scholarship covering his tuition and fees beginning fall 2028 should he decide to attend UT and meet admission requirements.
Alumni, fans, and honorary Volunteers have stepped up in response to this story. So far, more than 50,000 shirts featuring the boy’s design have been pre-sold by the VolShop. All proceeds from the sale of the shirts will go directly to the charity Stomp Out Bullying. The university will cover the cost of the scholarship separately. Orders will begin shipping later this month.
University officials have spoken several times with the boy’s mother, who has expressed gratitude to the university and said the family has been deeply touched by the overwhelming outpouring from people around the world.
—
Media coverage:
News Sentinel: He’s Getting More Than His Shirt Printed—UT Just Offered the Bullied Boy A Scholarship
CNN: Boy Bullied Over His Homemade UT T-Shirt Gets Scholarship to School
People: Boy Bullied Over His Homemade UT T-Shirt Gets Scholarship to School
Tennessean: He’s Getting More than His Shirt Printed—UT Just Offered the Bullied Boy a Scholarship
Fox News: UT Gives Scholarship to Bullied Student Who Designed Homemade School Shirt
New York Daily News: UT Offers Full Scholarship to Fourth-Grader Bullied for Homemade Shirt
Today: UT Offers Scholarship to 4th Grader Bullied For Homemade Shirt
Sports Illustrated: Tennessee Offers Scholarship to Boy That Was Bullied for His Homemade UT Shirt
Inc.: UT Just Did Something Truly Amazing for a Young ‘Super Fan.’ (Here’s Why It’s Such a Brilliant Move)
ABC News: Tennessee Band Members Wear T-Shirt Honoring Bullied Fan
News Sentinel: Pride Of The Southland Band Wears Shirts With UT Logo Worn By Bullied Tennessee Football Fan
Washington Post: Tennessee Band Members Wear T-Shirt Honoring Bullied Fan
The Hill: UT Marching Band Wears Shirts With Design Made By Bullied Fan
WBIR: Smokey, Pride of The Southland Band Wears Shirt Made by Tennessee Fan from Florida
This story is part of the University of Tennessee’s 225th anniversary celebration. Volunteers light the way for others across Tennessee and throughout the world.