The University of Tennessee at Martin hosted its inaugural First Flight Frenzy on Aug. 21 in the Kathleen and Tom Elam Center, bringing an “ESPN Gameday”-style atmosphere to welcome first-time students and kick off excitement for the new school year.
The event, presented in partnership with UT Federal Credit Union, featured remarks from Chancellor Yancy Freeman Sr.; Provost Laurie Couch; UT Federal Credit Union CEO and President Kenyon Warren; Dr. Mary Giles, assistant professor of education and development and training coordinator of UT Martin’s Call Me MiSTER program; and student Scarlett Seymour, each sharing advice on how to make the most of the first-year experience.
Davis Gregory, the play-by-play announcer for the Skyhawk Sports Network, was the emcee of the event.
Students also got in on the action with interactive games, including a “Moneyball” shootout where college deans wore basketball goals on their heads while students raced the clock to score, and a “Price Is Right”-style challenge that tested students’ knowledge of the cost of common college housing items.
Along the way, students had the chance to connect with faculty, staff and fellow Skyhawks. Classes for the fall 2026 semester began Aug. 24.
PHOTO: Shown at the inaugural First Flight Frenzy event at UT Martin on Aug. 21 are Chancellor Yancy Freeman Sr. (center) and Provost Laurie Couch fielding questions from Davis Gregory, the play-by-play announcer for the Skyhawk Sports Network.
