Our Defining Moment

March 19, 2020

Dear UT Family,

These are unprecedented and difficult times. In the space of just seven days, we have suspended in-person classes for the spring semester and canceled the traditional graduation ceremonies in May. From sporting events to student activities, so much has been canceled.

In the midst of all of our concerns for our university, there are the concerns for our family and friends. We are worried about their health and worried about them losing their jobs or businesses. So much seems threatened, it can feel crushing. I know, it has felt that way to me at times. It can seem like just one blow after the other.

However, as I reflect on the challenges others have faced, it helps to keep things in perspective. What has been called the “greatest generation” suffered through World War II where over 20 million lives were lost and entire cities were turned to rubble. But they rebuilt, and we will too.

Already, our campuses are creating distance learning alternatives so our students can complete their courses - and graduate on time! They are working to provide refunds where needed, and they are looking for exciting new alternatives to celebrate graduation.

We know the fundamentals of our economy are strong and it will rebound. Much has been delayed, but it’s not been lost.

This adversity has brought out the best in us. Resolve. Determination. Passion. Caring for one another. I have never been more proud of our students, our faculty, our staff, our campus leaders and our alumni than I am right now.

I want to say thank you to all those in the UT family that are working tirelessly for this great future we have before us. We will come out of this stronger and better than we have ever been!

These are the days that will define us, that will define greatness. Together, we will still make this the greatest decade in the history of the University of Tennessee!

Randy Boyd