A Golden Reunion for the Class of 1974

Fifty years after tossing their caps in the air, the Class of 1974 is proving that the Moc spirit never fades.

As the Class of 1974 celebrates its 50th reunion this year, it’s clear that the bonds formed at UTC have stood the test of time.

The upcoming reunion is more than a trip down memory lane—it’s a testament to lasting friendships and an opportunity to help shape the future of their beloved UTC. To mark this special occasion, the 1974 Reunion Planning Committee has been working tirelessly to create an unforgettable experience for their classmates.

Chi Omega Sorority photo with Claire Smith (last row, fourth from the left).

The Class of 1974 entered UTC during a time of significant change. The institution had recently transformed from the private University of Chattanooga to the public University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, ushering in a new era of growth and opportunity.

For Claire Smith, who earned her degree in elementary education, Greek life at UTC was a cornerstone of her college experience. “Sorority activities like Rush, All Sing and Homecoming were some of my favorite memories,” she reminisced. “Those experiences, along with visits to professors who lived on campus, really shaped my college years.”

Janet Wright, who earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at UTC, fondly recalls her time as a majorette. “I loved practicing our routines outside the band room under the big oak trees on Oak Street,” she said. “It was so much fun and so beautiful!” Wright’s positive experience at UTC is a family tradition—her father attended UC, and one of her sons later earned his MBA from UTC.

Like Wright, Mike Craft found camaraderie through campus involvement, particularly in athletics. A political science graduate, he cherishes memories of attending sporting events and wrestling road trips. This passion for Mocs athletics has stayed with him, motivating his continued involvement with the university.

Mike Craft wrestling.

As 1974 alumni prepare to return to campus, they’ll find a UTC that has grown and evolved since their graduation day. David Erwin, a real estate broker and longtime Mocs basketball fan, marvels at the changes. “In my junior year at UTC, I lived on campus in a private house off Oak Street, the current site of the University Student Center,” he shared. “It’s certainly amazing to see the transformation of our campus.”

Despite the physical changes, the spirit of UTC remains strong. Suzanne Rushworth, who was deeply involved in campus life as an Alpha Delta Pi president and Panhellenic Council member, noted, “I had amazing professors and received an outstanding education that prepared me for a successful career in education in public schools in Hamilton County.”

Alpha Delta Pi Sorority photo with Suzanne Rushworth (last row, second from the right).

As the Class of 1974 celebrates this milestone, they’re not just looking back but committed to ensuring a bright future for their alma mater. The reunion planning committee decided that part of the ticket price for the event will go towards endowing the Traditions Across Generations (TAG) Legacy Scholarship.

This scholarship holds special significance for many committee members. “The Legacy Scholarship can help the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of my classmates,” explained Janet Wright. “This scholarship can help family and friends continue the UTC tradition.”

The Class of ’74 Reunion Committee is genuinely incredible. Their investment of time and money is changing the lives of both their classmates and current students at UTC.

Jeff Cogburn

Assistant Vice Chancellor for Alumni Affairs

Valerie Rutledge on the cheer team.

Valerie Rutledge, who was involved in Singing Mocs, Chamber Singers and cheerleading as a student and is the current dean of the UTC College of Health, Education and Professional Studies, sees the scholarship as a bridge between generations. “It’s great to know that the contributions of our class members and others can help ensure that future students will be able to attend UTC as their family members did.”

As these alumni gather to celebrate 50 years since graduation, they hope to inspire their classmates—and all UTC alumni—to reconnect with their alma mater. Claire Smith passionately encourages fellow alumni to get involved. “Participate in sporting events, fine art offerings or help a student who is away from their home. Look for ways to invest your dollars now and in your long-range planning decisions. It’s fun and feels meaningful.”

Their legacy is a reminder that every Moc has a role in UTC’s future.

Tag

Traditions Across Generations

As the Class of 1974 celebrates 50 years of connection, now is the perfect time to reconnect with your own UTC legacy. Whether you’re a proud UTC graduate or part of a new generation of Mocs, Traditions Across Generations (TAG) offers exclusive opportunities for alumni and their families.

Stay connected and celebrate your UTC legacy with TAG. UTC!

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