As Women’s History Month unfolds, we are called to honor the resilience, achievements, and contributions of women throughout history. This month serves as a pivotal time to celebrate the trailblazers who have forged paths for equality, leadership, and innovation. It is a time to reflect on the strides we have made toward gender equality while also acknowledging the work that remains to be done.
At East Tennessee State University, we deeply value the integral role women play in enhancing our institution and the broader world. Women across ETSU contribute significantly to our academic excellence, innovative research, and community impact. From advancing health sciences to leading in arts and education, their efforts exemplify the richness and diversity of our campus life.
This Women’s History Month, let us all pledge to honor the legacy of women who lead with courage and tenacity. I encourage you to engage in reflective dialogues, participate in meaningful events, and educate yourselves on the historical and ongoing contributions of women.
Our Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies program regularly hosts events to facilitate meaningful conversations around gender equity and the unique experiences of women. Upcoming events include the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Open House on March 20; a presentation on the musical identity of “Gentleman Jack” by Dr. Allison Deadman, Linda Barnett, and Jerilyn Paolini on April 3; and a lecture on the impacts, causes, and cultural dimensions of climate change to be presented by Dr. Lindsey Cochran, also on April 3. I would also encourage you to visit the Reece Museum’s current exhibit, Embodying Culture: Women in Appalachia, which is on display through July 4.
A David and Goliath Story: The History of the Quillen College of Medicine
In this special series of “Campus Conversations,” we begin exploring the history of East Tennessee State University. In this conversation, President Noland sits down with Fred Sauceman to discuss the history of ETSU’s Quillen College of Medicine, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Described as a true “David and Goliath story,” the fight to create a medical school at ETSU resulted in one of the most significant and contentious political battles in state history. The conversation explores the early efforts in the 1960s to establish Quillen, the steadfast community support of people throughout the region, and key figures like Dr. Charles Allen and Congressman James H. Quillen, who helped make the dream a reality. The discussion also highlights the Quillen College of Medicine’s impact on the region by providing improved access to health care.
Get Involved Bucs Go Beyond
Dr. Daryl Carter Awarded Prestigious ACE Fellowship
The American Council on Education (ACE), the major coordinating body for the nation’s colleges and universities, has named East Tennessee State University’s Dr. Daryl A. Carter an ACE fellow.
The appointment for the 2024-25 academic year is a tremendous achievement. Only a few dozen – 26 this year – are selected following a competitive process that features senior administrators from colleges and universities across the United States.
Dr. Carter is a professor of history, associate dean for community relations and outreach, and director of ETSU’s Black American Studies Program. Read more.
Spring Break
As a reminder, ETSU will observe Spring Break from March 11-17. Classes will not be held during this time; however, the university will remain open.
Easter Egg Hunt
The Noland family invites ETSU faculty, staff, and their families to the annual ETSU Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 23, from 1-3 p.m. Get more information and register here.
Proposed Academic Restructure
The proposed new academic structure is now available for review and will be open for public comment through the close of business (4:30 p.m.) on March 19. Comments may be submitted through the ETSU public comment website here: Proposed Academic Structure Comments. Following the public comment period, the provost and president will revise the plan and provide a final recommendation for approval by university governing bodies, including the Academic Council, University Council, and ETSU Board of Trustees.
Vote for Bucky!
Bucky is in the final stretch of the SoCon Best Mascot Competition. Help him secure the win by voting daily for the rest of this week.
Real-World Impact
College of Public Health Innovating for Healthier Communities
The ETSU College of Public Health, a recipient of numerous national awards and accolades, added another feather to its cap this month when it was named the recipient of the 2024 Harrison C. Spencer Award for Outstanding Community Service by the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH).
This prestigious, nationwide award recognizes a school or program of public health that demonstrates a serious institutional commitment to addressing community needs through a range of activities, including education, practice, and research. Read more.
Go Beyond the Classroom
ETSU Global Year: Scotland
Situated in the beautiful Appalachian Highlands, East Tennessee State University officials have worked to both achieve a greater international influence and provide students and faculty with opportunities to learn and engage with other countries.
A key goal: Prepare students for an interconnected world, one where cross-cultural competencies are needed to become better professionals and citizens.
ETSU’s Global Year Program, rooted in those commitments, has selected Scotland for the 2024-25 academic year. Learn more.
Go Beyond the Classroom Get Involved
Dozens of Arts Events Scheduled for March
ETSU is home to a thriving arts community, and the university invites the public to visit campus and take in art exhibits, concerts, films, and more this spring. See the March lineup.
Bucs Go Beyond
Trent White Named a Truman Scholarship Finalist
An East Tennessee State University student is a finalist for a Harry S. Truman Scholarship, a highly competitive and prestigious award.
Trent White, a graduate of Unicoi County High School and the current president of the Student Government Association at ETSU, will find out if he wins in the spring. Learn more.
People Come First
Reflecting on Black History Month
Meet Our Students
From Grief to Greatness: Marisa Sardonia’s Journey at ETSU
Photo of the Week
This year’s Festival of Ideas was a tremendous success. Congratulations to all those who played a role in planning this series of events!
Follow @ETSUPrez
#BucsGoBeyond
From My Notepads is a twice-monthly newsletter published by the office of ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland. The newsletter's title is a reference to the legal notepads Dr. Noland constantly carries to jot down thoughts, ideas, and notes.
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