June Recap: Celebrating Community, Culture, and Civic Engagement

June brought a vibrant mix of history, heritage, and heart to our community, and UT Federal Credit Union was honored to be part of it all. From dancing under the stars at the Museum of Appalachia to championing civic education in Tennessee classrooms, we continued our mission to connect with and support the people, organizations, and values that make Tennessee thrive.

Here's a look back at where June took us:

Preserving the Past and Shaping the Future

We started the month by supporting Knox Heritage's 2025 Suppers & Such, an annual tradition combining southern hospitality with historic preservation. Each event in the Suppers & Such series brings guests into unique and storied places, celebrating Knoxville's rich architectural legacy while raising awareness—and funds—for preserving our city's history for generations to come.

It's always a privilege to stand beside Knox Heritage as they keep our community's past alive and meaningful.

Dancing in the Heart of Appalachia

Next, we dusted off our boots for the Museum of Appalachia's Barn Dance—a lively evening that had it all: wagon rides, home-cooked meals, live music, square dancing, and a spirited auction. This beloved event is more than just fun; it's a fundraiser that directly supports the Museum's mission to preserve the culture and traditions of Southern Appalachia.

Every toe tap and paddle raised that night contributed to telling the story of a region that continues to shape who we are today.

Women Leading the Way

We were proud to attend the Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce Speaker Series: In HER Arena - Where Women Lead the Game Follows. This empowering event spotlighted women who are breaking barriers and setting bold new standards in business, sports, and leadership.

It was a powerful reminder that progress happens when we make space at the table—and hand over the mic—to voices that inspire real change.

Game On Against Cancer

A stadium full of hope and hometown heroes came together at Covenant Health's Game On Against Cancer at Covenant Health Park. Local celebrities and former athletes competed in a friendly baseball showdown—all to raise funds for cancer support services.

Watching the community rally around such a critical cause, blending fun with fundraising, was a home run for everyone involved.

Global Leaders in Our Backyard

Thanks to the Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs, we had the extraordinary opportunity to meet participants in the Mandela Washington Fellowship, a U.S. State Department initiative. These dynamic young leaders from across Africa shared insights about their communities, their challenges, and their visions for the future.

It was an inspiring reminder that global change often starts with local conversations—and that leadership knows no borders.

Educators Building Civic Foundations

We were proud to partner with the UT Institute of American Civics for the third annual Tennessee Civics Academy—a two-day professional developmnet workshop that welcomed 125 high school teachers from 85 schools across 36 counties.

This impactful event immersed educators in topics like constitutional rights, landmark Supreme Court decisions, American founding principles, and economic theory, equipping them with powerful tools to enrich civic learning in classrooms across the state.

Supporting this initiative aligns with our belief that a well-informed, engaged citizenry is essential to a thriving community, and we're honored to invest in the educators shaping Tennessee's future leaders.

A Celebration of Knoxville's Story

We rounded our the month with the 9th Annual Luncheon Benefiting the Knoxville History Project at The Mill & Mine. This gathering celebrated Knoxville's people, places, and pivotal moments—all while raising funds to preserve and share the city's rich narrative.

It was an afternoon of connection and reflection, reminding us that our community's story is still being written, one chapter at a time.

Looking Ahead

June was filled with events that exemplify what we value most at UT Federal Credit Union: community, collaboration, and a deep respect for where we've been and where we're going. We're grateful for the opportunity to show up, lend our support, and be inspired by the incredible work happening around us.

As we head into July, we're already looking forward to the stories that will unfold—on courthouse steps, dance floors, classrooms, and ballfields. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.