The University of Tennessee’s Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE) was founded in 2019 to create a safe environment to support Asian heritage scientists and engineers. Guided by SASE’s three pillars—community outreach, culture, and professional development—SASE’s mission is to provide opportunities for members to make contributions to its local communities, celebrate diversity on campuses and in the workplace, and prepare Asian heritage scientists and engineers for success in the global business world.
On November 16th, 2024, SASE volunteered with Keep Knoxville Beautiful (KKB) to clean up the area around W Jackson Avenue in Downtown Knoxville. Keep Knoxville Beautiful is a local organization that collaborates with clubs and individuals to foster a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful Knoxville.
Zachary Pham, UTK SASE’s community outreach director, was taking part in this third cleanup opportunity since starting at UT. Unlike previous events, which were either on-campus or farther from Knoxville, this one gave him a chance to explore the downtown area. Although Pham would rather people not litter and keep the city clean, the commitment and effort put in by the community to help is inspirational. “It’s a wonderful thing to know that other people are willing to step up and work alongside you to help make things better,” Pham said.
John Huang, a freshman SASE member, enjoyed participating in the cleanup for America Recycles Day. Along with picking up litter, the cleanup provided an opportunity to network and socialize. “Not only did we pick up litter and aluminum cans, but I also had an enjoyable time with the other members,” Huang said.
Brian Putra, a graduate student SASE member, described the event as a meaningful way to contribute to the community. “Living here in Knoxville has been a pleasant experience so far. It felt great to give back to the city in some way,” Putra said.
This volunteer opportunity gave SASE members the chance to connect with the local Knoxville community while making an impact on the environment. The chapter’s goals for this event included promoting teamwork and increasing environmental awareness. These goals were met as members worked with other volunteers from Knoxville to pick up litter.