KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — UT Federal Credit Union and Pellissippi State Community College have launched a five-year partnership that includes support for the college’s athletics programs, scholarships, financial education and internship opportunities.
The organizations marked the start of the agreement Monday during a Signing Day celebration at Pellissippi State’s Hardin Valley Campus, according to UT Federal Credit Union.
Under the agreement, UTFCU becomes the official partner of Panther Athletics. The credit union said its investment will support athletics programs, team travel, uniforms, facility improvements and other opportunities for student-athletes.
The partnership also will support the Pellissippi State Foundation through scholarships and fundraising benefiting students, according to UTFCU.
Partnership Extends Beyond Athletics
UTFCU said the agreement builds on years of collaboration between the credit union and college and is the first partnership of its kind involving a community college within Tennessee’s public higher education system.
Pellissippi State President L. Anthony Wise Jr. said the two organizations share similar commitments to serving their communities.
“As you move forward in your lives, it’s important to have partners, colleagues, and friends who are aligned with you in terms of mission, and I think that’s absolutely true with UT Federal Credit Union,” Wise said.
UT Federal Credit Union President and CEO Kenyon Warren said the relationship will extend beyond athletics.
“We’re excited to serve and build relationships with students, faculty, staff, alumni, families, and truly the entire Pellissippi State community,” Warren said in a statement.
He said the credit union plans to support the college through financial education, scholarships, campus engagement, internships, athletics and financial services.
Soccer Field to Carry UTFCU Name
As part of the agreement, Pellissippi State’s Panthers will compete on a new soccer field named UT Federal Credit Union Field, according to the credit union.
UTFCU also will recognize individual student-athletes for their achievements in athletics and academics.
During the Signing Day event, Warren named men’s soccer player Yahir Pacheco the inaugural UT Federal Credit Union Student Athlete of the Month.
The five-year agreement officially took effect Sept. 14. UTFCU said both organizations plan to use the partnership to create additional opportunities for Pellissippi State students and support the broader region.
