The themes of student engagement and success were in the spotlight at East Tennessee State University’s quarterly Board of Trustees' meeting on Nov. 6.

Student Government Association (SGA) President Shelby Koerten provided an overview of student achievements during the fall 2026 semester, highlighting the ways that ETSU students have impacted the campus and community.

‘A place where students want to be’

“ETSU is a place where people want to be,” Koerten said. “Ultimately, SGA’s role is not simply to represent students, but to help make ETSU a home for every student. We want every Buc to know that their voice matters, their passions have a place here, and they have a meaningful role in shaping the community around them. Our work is a reflection of ETSU’s own mission, where people always come first.”

Koerten highlighted several initiatives aimed at strengthening student engagement and leadership development, including a Junior Senate program that has involved nearly 50 students this year and produced 12 proposed pieces of legislation.

She also noted the success of new campus traditions and programs, including the inaugural Mountain Made: Appalachian Folk Festival, which celebrated the region's culture while fostering a stronger sense of community and belonging among students.

Additionally, Koerten highlighted opportunities that prepare students for success beyond graduation, including professional development programs and study abroad experiences that help students build career-ready skills.

Leadership development and career success

During the Academic, Research and Student Success Committee meeting, the Board received updates on programs that will prepare ETSU students for leadership and career success.  

Dr. Tony Pittarese, dean of the College of Business and Technology, and Mr. Jim Harlan, professor of practice and AFG Chair of Excellence in Business and Technology, provided an overview of the Andrew Leadership Academy, which enhances the professional development of senior and graduate students through educational experiences, service opportunities and leadership training. Since its launch in 2021, the academy has graduated 243 students, with the current cohort representing the program’s largest class to date.

Dr. Chris Keller, dean of the Honors College, highlighted new efforts focused on career readiness and workforce preparation, including ETSU student participation in a summer program with Harvard University that allows selected honors students to spend seven weeks studying on the Cambridge campus while participating in professional development activities throughout Boston.  

In his presentation to the Board, ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland announced that ETSU has two Rhodes Scholarship finalists this fall – ETSU alumna Kyah Powers and current student Emily Jenkins. This marks five Rhodes finalists in four years for ETSU.

“ETSU students continue to distinguish themselves on the national stage,” said ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland. “We are proud to provide the programs, mentorship and high-impact learning opportunities that help them reach their full potential. These accomplishments reflect both the exceptional talent of our students and the dedication of the faculty and staff who support them.”

Salary enhancements

The Board of Trustees also approved the revised fiscal year 2027 October budgets, which included a 1.5% salary enhancement for regular ETSU employees, capped at $4,000, as part of the university's ongoing efforts to invest in and support its workforce.

In September, ETSU earned the Great Colleges to Work For® designation for the third consecutive year. recognizes colleges that receive top ratings from their employees for workplace practices and policies.