KNOXVILLE, Tenn.– Kimberly Watkins, an architecture student at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, is the first recipient of a scholarship created by a Chattanooga architectural firm.
Watkins, a 1995 graduate of the Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences, won the Derthick Henley Wilkerson Scholarship. Carroll Henley of Derthick Henley Wilkerson said the firm created the scholarship endowment to support minority students majoring in architecture.
The firm’s gift is part of UT’s $308 million 21st Century Campaign.
“Architecture as a profession will improve through the efforts of trained, talented people with different backgrounds and social experiences,” Henley said. “We are very pleased that Kimberly Watkins, a Chattanooga native, was chosen as the first recipient.
“We believe her effort and initiative, which earned the scholarship, will lead to success in the profession.”
Preference in awarding the scholarship will be given to students from the Chattanooga area. Watkins is the daughter of John and Patricia Watkins.
Marleen Kay Davis, UT-Knoxville dean of architecture and planning, said the scholarship will help the college’s recruiting and enhance diversity.
“This award provides another important link for the School of Architecture and the city of Chattanooga,” Davis said. “We are grateful to the principals of Derthick Henley Wilkerson for their commitment to students.”
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Contact: Marleen Davis (423-974-5267)