News
By the Book – Herbert ‘Book’ McCray (’83)
Herbert ‘Book’ McCray (‘83) made his mark on the basketball court, helping lead the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to the NCAA Men’s Division II basketball national championship in 1977. But his greatest legacy goes far beyond the game. What started with a basketball scholarship became a lifelong mission to uplift and empower the next …
Leading with Purpose
From a young age, Lessie Lyttle (‘93) understood the power of perseverance. Whether competing in sports, serving as a combat medic or leading healthcare transformations, she built a life around leadership, service and determination. Growing up in Chattanooga, Lessie found guidance and encouragement at Girls Inc., formerly Girls Club. There, under the guidance of University …
From Business to the Big Screen – Gary Miller (’77)
For Gary L. Miller (’77), life has always been about embracing new opportunities and stepping beyond his comfort zone. From businessman to screenwriter, author, songwriter and actor, Gary’s multifaceted career reflects his passion for living fully and fearlessly. “As a Christian, I’m not afraid of dying, but I am afraid of not living,” Gary said. …
Paying It Forward – Larvizo Wright (’06)
Larvizo Wright (‘06) with his wife, Brinkley, daughter Layla, and son Logan. From a 14-year-old with a dream of becoming a Certified Public Accountant to a corporate leader at a Fortune 500 company, Larvizo Wright (‘06) has charted a path of purpose, gratitude and generosity. Today, as Chief of Staff to the CEO at Unum …
Service Beyond the Sea
Veterans Day holds deep personal meaning for Captain Mickey McCamish (‘65), a proud alumnus of the University of Chattanooga and a dedicated Navy veteran of 27 years. From navigating destroyers across turbulent seas to organizing community-driven initiatives at home, McCamish has spent his life serving others. This year, his commitment continues with Wreaths Across Chattanooga, …
The Sweet Smell of Entrepreneurship
From the time Emily Warr (‘13) was a little girl, she was curious about how scent could trigger memories and emotions. She took that curiosity with her to the Gary W. Rollins College of Business and completed a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurship that was the springboard to co-found The Rustic House in 2013 with her …
A Colorful Collaboration between Sisters
A handmade accessories brand founded by two sisters, both born in August, Sarah-Anne (‘19) and Hannah Waggoner specialize in creating unique polymer clay and resin earrings and necklaces inspired by whimsical themes like clouds, rainbows, stripes and gems. Each piece is carefully crafted to add a colorful and cheerful touch, perfect for brightening up any …
Places for Pets
You can’t forget about the pets and pet lovers in your life during the holiday season, and husband-and-wife duo Bob (‘12) and Courtney (‘09) Poore have you covered for all the possible pet presents and people in your life. While both have undergraduate degrees from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Bob and Courtney completed …
A Zest for the Food Business
Having lived all over the world, Briana Garza (‘11) knows how to find where the locals eat. And she’s made that search simple in Chattanooga with the creation of Chatt Taste. Chatt Taste showcases the transformation of dining and local businesses in Downtown Chattanooga through guided food tours. Guests can select from the 43 available …








