Skip to Main Content

The University of Tennessee

Office of the Chancellor

Frequently Used Tools:



Chancellor's Honors Banquet » The Torchbearer Award


Chancellor's Honors

The Torchbearer Award

Nomination Deadline: February 3, 2012

The Torchbearer is the highest student honor conferred by the University of Tennessee. It is awarded for academic achievement and outstanding commitment to others as demonstrated by the student’s various activities and significant contributions to the university and the community. Torchbearers are seniors who have served their Alma Mater with overall excellence.

Students chosen for this award embody the Volunteer spirit, displaying initiative and service in the best interest of both the university and their fellow student. Recognition as a Torchbearer reminds all students that those who bear the Torch of Enlightenment shadow themselves to give light to others.

In order to be considered for the Torchbearer, the nominee must meet the following requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75
  • Graduated in summer or fall 2011 or anticipate graduating in spring 2012

The Torchbearer Selection Committee relies heavily on the information in the nomination packet. Information provided in the nomination should be accurate and complete prior to submission. Self-nominations are permitted. It is strongly encouraged that the nominator requests the nominee to:

  • Provide a detailed description of participation and leadership in all activities (freshman through senior years) that address each of the five categories listed in the nomination packet.
  • Contact his/her choice of individuals for two letters of reference and provide those individuals with the reference forms contained in this packet.
  • Provide a current, individual photograph for publication purposes (no snapshots). Photo will not be shared or used in award deliberations.

For more information, please contact Jeff Cathey, Associate Dean of Students, at jeffcath@utk.edu.