20th Student Enrichment Fundraiser
The 20th Annual Student Enrichment Fundraiser was a tremendous success, thanks to the dedication of our faculty, staff, students, and the support of our industry partners and friends. This year we were honored to recognize Commissioner Mark Ezell of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development for his outstanding leadership and contributions to Tennessee’s thriving hospitality and tourism industry.
The celebration began with an invitation-only sponsor luncheon with Commissioner Ezell, followed by his keynote presentation to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville community and hospitality and tourism partners on the economic impact of the state’s tourism sector. The evening fundraiser highlighted the energy and talent of our RHTM students and faculty. President Randy Boyd offered remarks on the importance of hospitality and tourism management education before introducing our honoree. Our longtime friend and advisory board member, Nancy Barger, served as emcee, hosting the program in the engaging style of a live radio show.
The evening’s program was lively and meaningful, showcasing student talent, industry connections, and the collective impact of our department. We are deeply grateful to our planning committee members – Christopher Kelley, Myra Loveday, YounKyung Kim, Tyler White, Nicholas Rodgers, and Joe Perrock – along with our RHTM faculty, staff, and students, whose commitment and hard work made the fundraiser possible.
Vols Abroad!
Michelle Childs and Jeanie Lim are organizing an international study tour to Milan and Dublin for Summer 2026. Students will experience unique industry tours and talks and learn about fashion and hospitality in both exciting locations. Some of the scheduled visits in Milan will include Armani, Vivienne Westwood, Bulgari, and a culinary tour of Parma and Modena. In Dublin, students will visit Wren Urban Nest, The Morgan, Trinity College and Book of Kells, as well as explore the Stillgarden Distillery. Scholarships will be provided for early applicants, funded by the success of our annual Student Enrichment Fundraiser.
The Second Blissful Wish Wedding
Kenzie Cathey and Tanner Branam were selected as recipients of the second Blissful Wish Wedding, a fully sponsored celebration planned and executed by 12 students in HTM 412: Wedding Production and Execution. Chosen unanimously from 23 applications reviewed by four RHTM Advisory Board members, the couple will be married on November 6, 2025, at the Pavilion at Hunter Valley Farm. Kenzie, born with congenital heart disease, received a life-saving heart transplant on August 11, 2024; their enduring story of love and resilience moved the selection committee. The student-led event is part of RHTM’s commitment to immersive, real-world learning—students will coordinate every aspect of the wedding while partnering with local businesses. Guided by Stefanie Benjamin and Nancy Barger (Barger Concepts), the project underscores the department’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled student experience.
Online Curriculum Development
Faculty from both the Retail and Merchandising Management (RMM) and Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) programs are excited to announce the development of a 100% online, asynchronous bachelor’s degree option, designed for students who cannot attend classes on the Knoxville campus. This innovative initiative opens doors for Tennesseans who have begun but not completed a post-secondary education, as well as for professionals currently working in retail and hospitality industries who want to advance their careers with a bachelor’s degree. The new Retail and Merchandising Management online program will launch in fall 2026, followed by the Hospitality and Tourism Management online program in fall 2027. These flexible degree options will expand access, create new career pathways, and extend RHTM’s commitment to transformational learning opportunities wherever students are.
Next Student Enrichment Fundraiser
Our 21st Student Enrichment Fundraiser will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Hilton Knoxville. This signature celebration will showcase the talent and creativity of our students. Those in the fashion production course will partner with HTM 435: Advanced Event Planning and Design students to produce an unforgettable evening, while our culinary students will prepare elegant hors d’oeuvres and creative food stations for guests to enjoy during the silent auction, fashion show, and awards and recognition program. An official invitation will be shared with industry partners, alumni, and friends, featuring opportunities to get involved through corporate and table sponsorships, in-kind contributions, auction item donations, and ticket sales. We look forward to welcoming you to this meaningful event in support of our students’ success. Join us in making it our most memorable fundraiser yet!