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Students and the chancellor posing with Smoky the dog

Donor Recognition Societies

Donor Recognition Societies

Strong partners and secure finances create a dynamic enterprise. The Tickle College of Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is proud to recognize the many donors whose philanthropic investments propel engineering excellence. These gift societies were created to articulate ways of giving and to thank our donors.

1838 Society

When engineering became a part of the curriculum at the University of Tennessee in 1838, the industrial revolution in the United States was just starting. Innovation and ingenuity applied through engineering and driven by engineering education helped transform this country into one of the greatest economic powers in history. Cash gifts of $1 million or more to the Tickle College of Engineering have that same potential to dramatically strengthen the power of engineering education in Tennessee. We proudly recognize the individuals and industrial partners who have given so generously to the Tickle College of Engineering.

1838 Society

Estabrook Society

The foresight of University of Tennessee president Joseph Estabrook established the courses that would lead to the Tickle College of Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The individuals who include the college in their estate plans through wills, bequests, charitable remainder trusts, life insurance, gift annuities, and IRA designations exhibit that same vision by providing resources that will enhance engineering education at Tennessee far into the future. It is fitting to recognize donors who, though their estate plans, provide for programs in the college as members of the Estabrook Society.

Estabrook Society

Cornerstone Society

We are grateful to the many donors whose endowments provide continuing support for student scholarships, fellowships, faculty endowments, professorships, chairs, and other programs of excellence. These permanent endowments provide an annual income stream that enables the college’s leadership to strategically advance engineering education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Cornerstone Society

Dean’s Circle

The Dean’s Circle recognizes leadership-level annual giving of $1000 or more to select funds in the Tickle College of Engineering. The benefit of these designated, but unrestricted, funds is in their flexibility and immediacy. We are grateful to the alumni and other friends of the college who give annually to support the Tickle College of Engineering.

Dean's Circle