East Tennessee State University’s Founders Week will highlight the community spirit that has made the university a hub of learning, service, research and regional impact for more than 100 years.
ETSU celebrates its third annual Founders Week Oct. 6-11, with special activities planned for each day of the week that celebrates the university’s founding as East Tennessee Normal School on Oct. 10, 1911.
“This institution has served the region as a beacon of knowledge, innovation and service for more than a century,” said ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland. “Founders Week is a recognition of the longstanding community support that has allowed this university to thrive, and it is also an opportunity to showcase how ETSU continues to make meaningful and lasting impacts on the lives of the people it serves.”
This year’s Founders Week includes a range of activities, most of which are free and open to the public – unless otherwise noted.
September–October 10, campus and community
In partnership with Appalachia Service Project, ETSU is collecting household essentials through an online housewarming registry to help families settle into safe, newly built or renovated homes after disaster or hardship. The initiative concludes on Oct. 10.
• ETSU Elevates Pitch Competition
Monday, October 6 | Doors open 5 p.m., program begins 5:30 p.m. | Martin Center for the Arts, ETSU Foundation Grand Hall
Students and community partners present innovative projects addressing economic, social and environmental issues.
Tuesday, October 7 | 10 a.m. | ETSU Carillon
This annual ceremony honors students, faculty, and staff who have passed away during the prior academic year, with Carillon bells ringing at 10:11 a.m.
• Lecture: “Dr. C.C. Sherrod and the Spirit of the Times: Leadership Through Depression and War”
Tuesday, October 7 | 4 p.m. | Bud Frank Theatre
Fred Sauceman reflects on the leadership of ETSU’s President Dr. Charles C. Sherrod, who guided ETSU through the Great Depression and World War II.
Wednesday, October 8 | 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. | Invitation only
The annual Celebration of Service awards recognize faculty and staff milestones of 5–50 years with the State of Tennessee.
Thursday, October 9 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Borchuck Plaza
Enjoy fresh local food, regional arts and crafts, plants, vintage and handmade clothing, live music, food trucks and more.
• Johnson City’s Acoustic Autumn Series (sponsored by ETSU)
Thursday, October 9 | 6–7:30 p.m. | Founders Park Amphitheatre
ETSU will sponsor Acoustic Autumn at Founders Park featuring local musician Madi Foster. Wear your blue and gold, snap a photo with ETSU's beloved mascot Bucky and celebrate ETSU pride in the heart of Downtown Johnson City.
• State of the University Address
Friday, October 10 | 10 a.m. | Martin Center for the Arts, Powell Recital Hall
ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland delivers his annual address, also livestreamed on ETSU’s YouTube channel.
Saturday, October 11 | 3:30 p.m. | William B. Greene Jr. Stadium
Cheer on the Bucs as they take on VMI. Previous 1911 Society honorees will receive special recognition during the home football game.
For a complete schedule and updates, visit etsu.edu/founders.
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