Staff members UT’s Division of Enrollment Management visited Gatlinburg-Pittman High School recently to meet with 20 seniors admitted to UT for the fall and replace admissions items they may have lost in the recent wildfires.
Among the items: the highly prized Welcome to Rocky Top musical cards.
“We presented them bags with their admit packets, ink pens, and future Vol buttons with their name on it,” said Tyler Lewelling, coordinator of freshman recruitment, who arranged the visit. He was accompanied by Sarah Strong, admissions counselor, and Elizabeth Dixon from Enrollment Management.
Kristi Cantrell, Gatlinburg-Pittman school counselor, said the students were very happy to get the goodies and proudly carried their Tennessee orange tote bags in the hall that day.
“They were very pleased that UT would take time out for them and that the university recognized that even though the lost items might have been small things, they were very important to them,” she said.
Kari Alldredge, vice provost for enrollment management, said, “We’re more than happy to replace these cherished mementoes that were lost in the fires. We know being admitted to college is a major milestone in one’s life so we’re happy to provide copies of these keepsakes to the newest members of our Volunteer family.”
UT is working with the mayor of Gatlinburg and the web team that oversees the Mountain Tough website to post information about how those affected by the fire can get replacement diplomas free of charge.
Anyone who lost a UT diploma or admissions packet in the wildfires should contact One Stop at 865-974-1111 to inquire about a free replacement.
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CONTACT:
Amy Blakely (865-974-5034, ablakely@utk.edu)