The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga proudly announced Lily Sanchez (‘16) as the recipient of the 2024 GOLD Excellence Award. This award celebrates an alumnus or alumna who graduated within the last decade and has exemplified early success and contributions within their profession or community.
A bilingual communication professional, Lily Sanchez (’16) was born in Rome, Ga., to immigrant parents from the Dominican Republic. When Sanchez moved to Santo Domingo, DR, at age 10, Sanchez stayed for six years before moving to Chattanooga in 2010. Earning her bachelor’s in communication, Lily has worked for La Paz Chattanooga since 2017, telling stories and building relationships within Chattanooga’s Latino community. Earning a master’s in communication with a concentration in public interest communication from the University of Florida, she has always been passionate about Latinx advocacy and empowerment, particularly for Latina women.
“It is clear that Lily is making an impact in her community, and we are proud tp call her a UTC alumna,” said Kim White, UTC’s Vice Chancellor of Advancement. “It will be a privilege to see the professional accomplishments she will continue to make and know her time at UTC contributed to her success.”
Lily Sanchez (’16), second from the right.
When I graduated, I didn’t leave a community at UTC. The community has come with me, and I know that even though I’m years removed, many people at UTC are cheering me on and want to see me succeed.
Meet the Award Winners of 2024
Hear from our award winners about their experiences at UTC and what makes it so special.
Distinguished Alumni Award: Kenn Grubbs
The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest annual commendation presented to an alumnus/a. This award recognizes alumnus/a who demonstrate extraordinary service to their alma mater, their field and their community. The award recipients embody our institutional vision, mission and core values. Award recognizes alumnus/a who demonstrates extraordinary service to their alma mater, their field and their community. The award recipients embody our institutional vision, mission and core values.
Outstanding Service Award: Roger Smith
The Outstanding Service Award recognizes a community leader who demonstrate exemplary personal service to UTC and the community.