This year marked the 50th anniversary of the passage of Title IX, a federal law that profoundly impacted and expanded educational and self-development opportunities for women and others. For example, over the past five decades, women's participation in collegiate sports rose from 29,977 to 215,486.
Buccaneer women also are leading off the field of play. Sixteen members of our women's athletics teams had a 4.0 GPA last year, and 106 made the SoCon Honor Roll. ETSU faculty member Meg Stone, Director of the Center of Excellence for Sport Science and Coach Education, was one of nine women highlighted in a national campaign recognizing women who have made significant impacts in the world of sport.
These recent accolades are among the many tremendous achievements made on our campus during the first 50 years of Title IX. As we continue the winter sports season and plan for the spring, I urge all campus community members to help support, recognize, and elevate the success of both our women's and men's athletics programs. We have much to celebrate.
Join Us to Celebrate Commencement This Saturday
This Saturday, we will celebrate the accomplishments of our students and confer more than 1,500 degrees during commencement ceremonies to be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the Ballad Health Athletic Center. I encourage our entire campus community to join us in celebrating this milestone in person or via livestream. Details are available at etsu.edu/commencement.
It is a magical time of year on campus. From family activities to stocking stuffers, from holiday concerts to holiday playlists, ETSU students, faculty, and staff are helping make the season bright. Visit etsu.edu/holidays to learn about the many holiday activities and initiatives underway.
Look Forward to a New ETSU Homepage
The Office of Marketing and Communications has developed a new design for ETSU's website homepage that will launch over the holiday break. The new page will focus on showcasing the unique experiences and offerings of the university and include dynamic areas where content will change frequently. I would like to commend our UMC team for creating a design based on research and for building in metrics to ensure ongoing optimization and user engagement.
Changes to note:
Quick links for faculty, staff, students, and other stakeholders will be available at the bottom of the page.
Everyone on campus or off will see the same version of the homepage.
Several content areas on the new page will change frequently. For example, the new design features a hero section that will be updated often, as well as "featured story," "latest news," and "featured events" areas.
Take Care this Season
For many, the holiday season and winter months can be stressful and difficult. Please make your self-care and well-being a priority. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, mental health resources are available from the Counseling Center, the University Health Center, and the Behavioral Health and Wellness Clinic. Virtual and telehealth services are available upon request. Mental health crisis resource information is now available on the Dean of Students website.
The holidays are an excellent time to express thanks for all we have and to give to others. If you would like to make a difference on the ETSU campus, consider supporting one of the following initiatives:
Join the faculty and staff from Clemmer College in sharing appreciation and gratitude to the educators who have made a difference in your life. Post a video or a message to your social media channels using the hashtag #ThankAnEducator.
Photo of the Week
Bucky's Blizzard Bash, held last Friday in University Commons, was a huge success! The event marked the opening of the on-campus ice-skating rink. View the rink's operating hours.
Recent News
Biology Grad Student Joseph Headrick Wins 3MT® Competition
Master's degree student Joseph Headrick won East Tennessee State University's 2022 3 Minute Thesis (3MT®) Competition with a presentation on "Salicylic Acid Inhibits Desiccation Survival of Salmonella Typhimurium."
ETSU Pharmacy Student Brie Levy Named World Powerlifting Champ
Earning a Doctor of Pharmacy degree is a heavy lift in itself, but ETSU pharmacy student Brie Levy also recently earned three World Powerlifting Champion titles.
ETSU Students to Travel to Ecuador for Medical Brigade Program
Cristiana Martinez, Crimsyn Price, Lauren Ross, and Jessica Upham will spend a week in Guangaje, Ecuador, with ETSU Quillen College of Medicine staff.
ETSU Professor Nets Two GRAMMY Nominations
Dr. Ted Olson, a professor of Appalachian Studies and Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies, has been nominated for two GRAMMY awards. The 2023 Grammys will broadcast live on Sunday, February 5.
Dr. Diana Morelen Promoting Mental Health for New Families
ETSU's Dr. Diana Morelen helped create a statewide public service announcement that raises awareness of mental health challenges during pregnancy and postpartum, the importance of a safe and stable home, and resources available to those with a mental illness.
As a reminder, the university will be closed from December 23 through January 2nd. The next edition of Notepads will be published on January 4, 2023. We wish you happy holidays and a joyous new year!
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