Volunteer Stories

The Volunteer spirit in action

CONNECTION

Vols listen and learn from one another, and step forward together.

Finding Home and Community on Rocky Top

Looking for connection and community at UT, first-generation college student Abigail Thongbai discovers a passion for volunteering and launches a career helping others.

From Veterans to First-Gen: Supporting Student Success

UT has built an ecosystem of student support initiatives to make sure all Vols have the best chance at success.

Asian American Alumna Gives Voice to Her Heritage

Five years after graduation, Azsha White reflects on how the university shaped her future.

Rods, Reels, and Rivers

A student organization gives students opportunities to get outside, serve others, and catch fish.

Learning to Lead and Serve

Students explore their leadership potential through the Volunteer Impact Academy.

An Attainable Future

A financially accessible education is within reach at UT.

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DISCOVERY

Vols roll up their sleeves and take learning far beyond the classroom walls.

The New Humanities

UT is paving the way for a new humanities movement that will make life and lives better.

Advancing UT’s Innovation Ecosystem

UT Researcher Dayakar Penumadu is refining the materials of the future.

Predicting the Future

A scholarship opportunity allows first-generation student Alexis Moreno (’21) to write a new story.

Keeping Everyone Healthy

Veterinary public health students learn about the ways humans, animals, and the environment are all interconnected.

A Passion for Service Yields Honors

Maya Bian’s interdisciplinary work in global health took her to China, where she researched the thesis that led to an international research award.

A Life-Changing Partnership

Frances Garcia is one of countless UT students who have benefited from UT’s partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

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LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE

Vols find growth and opportunity in lighting the way for others—on campus and around the world.