East Tennessee State University will once again honor the legacy of Dr. Chris Dula – a beloved psychology professor remembered for his deep compassion, generous spirit and tireless dedication to helping others – during the annual Dula Day celebration on Saturday, Oct. 18.

Part of ETSU’s Homecoming 2025 festivities, Dula Day invites students, faculty, staff and community members to roll up their sleeves and serve across the region in a day devoted to giving, learning and connection.  

What began as a small act of remembrance has grown into one of the university’s most meaningful traditions.  

It’s a reflection of Dula’s enduring influence on the campus he loved.

Dula, who passed away in January 2019 after a courageous battle with brain cancer, inspired countless students through his teaching, advanced knowledge through his research and strengthened communities through his belief in service. As the ETSU Board of Trustees noted in a 2018 proclamation, “Dr. Dula will always be known as a scholar who nobly embodies the entire mission of ETSU, from teaching to research, to public events.”

A Living Tribute

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Launched later that same year as the “Dula Day of Service,” the inaugural event offered students, faculty, staff and community members the opportunity to give back through direct, hands-on service. It was exactly the kind of meaningful engagement Dula championed throughout his career.

Six years later, the celebration has grown into simply “Dula Day,” an expanded event that now includes not only service and volunteerism but also music, education and community fellowship in the heart of campus.

“Dr. Dula’s commitment to his students and his passion for community service continue to inspire us,” said Joy Fulkerson, director of Leadership and Civic Engagement. “Dula Day allows us to honor his memory while making a real difference in our region. We invite everyone to join us in continuing his legacy of service.”

This year’s Dula Day runs from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18. Volunteers are needed for a variety of service opportunities that address real needs in the community. Register on this ETSU Serves site. The registration deadline is Sunday, Oct. 12.  

Through events like Dula Day, ETSU continues to strengthen its role as the flagship institution of Appalachia, a place that advances education, service and community well-being across the region.