Baker Students Reflect on the Big Orange Impact of Philanthropy
Philanthropy has a profound impact on the lives of students at the University of Tennessee, empowering them to excel academically, making education accessible, expanding horizons, encouraging excellence, and ensuring program strength. Every year, for one day in November, the University encourages its supporters to mobilize for the Big Orange Give.
The annual day of giving allows people to celebrate and support the things they love about UT. Despite being one of the newest academic units on campus, the Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs and its students have already felt the impacts of generous support from donors.
Below Baker School students reflect on how giving has impacted their academic journey.
Making Education Accessible: Scholarships ease financial burdens, allowing students to dive deeply into their studies and participate in transformative experiences like internships, research, and public service projects.
“The affordability of my education at UT played a large role in my decision to attend. Your generosity will make an immense impact on my education. Because of your support, I have achieved financial stability throughout my college career and have been able to focus solely on my academic, professional, and personal development.” – Ava Foley, a sophomore studying Public Affairs and Political Science.
Expanding Horizons: With support from donors, students can explore real-world challenges and gain hands-on experience. These opportunities build skills essential for future leaders in public policy and civic engagement, directly aligning with the Baker School’s mission.
“I plan on running for public office in the future so any time talking about government and learning about its inner workings is something I cherish. I’m involved in the Tennessee Intercollegiate State Legislature program, where I get to act as a mock Tennessee Representative and present a mock bill in the real house chambers in Nashville. I’m also involved in the Student Government Association’s Government Affairs program, where we promote civic engagement on campus, look into legislation that impacts universities, and lobby for policies that benefit the school. I’ve loved both of these hands-on experiences of government that have been so closely related to the work I want to devote my life to. I’m thankful for my scholarship and all the opportunities it has given me.” – Maggie Howard, a freshman studying Public Affairs with an American Civics minor.
Encouraging Excellence: Scholarships acknowledge students’ dedication and inspire them to pursue ambitious goals. This recognition fuels their passion for public service and community impact, encouraging them to go above and beyond.
“This scholarship will be instrumental in helping me achieve my academic goals. While at UT Knoxville, I hope to further develop my passions for helping my community and find extracurricular activities that I will be excited about. I am so excited to continue growing in my field while contributing to the UT community. I am truly grateful for the financial support, and I look forward to making the most of this opportunity to further my education and professional development.” – Arden Spencer, a freshman studying Public Affairs.
Ensuring Program Strength: Contributions from donors keep Baker School programs accessible, innovative, and impactful, enriching the experience for all students and sustaining our commitment to excellence.
“Being born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, it was always this little girl’s dream to go to the University of Tennessee. Driving around and seeing all the college kids walking around just made me aspire to live that life one day, especially since I am a first-generation college student in my family. Not only getting into the college but getting into the new Baker School that just now opened majors for undergraduates that seemed designed for me to tackle just felt like destiny, and I owe it to the donors for helping me fulfill my lifelong college dream.” – Alyssa Bates, a freshman studying Public Affairs.
Join us in supporting Baker School students, empowering the next generation of leaders, and ensuring a world-class education remains within reach.