It’s almost time for our semi-annual Listen. Learn. Lead. Week! Initially a Division of Student Life initiative, Listen. Learn. Lead. Week has expanded campus-wide with opportunities for students, faculty, and staff.
Spanning from October 19-23, the week will be filled with a variety of events in order to promote and honor the legacy of former Senator Howard H. Baker Jr. and his call to “listen more often than you speak.” Through programs, discussions, service initiatives, and educational experiences, the university wants to encourage and advocate for a campus culture that emphasizes sharing and discovering new perspectives, building relationships, and leading with integrity.
“Listen. Learn. Lead. Week reflects who we are at UT: a community committed to listening first, learning deeply, and leading through service,” says Crystal Hardeman-Ikem, associate dean of students. “It’s an invitation to engage across differences and help create a campus where everyone is seen, valued, and able to thrive.”
During the week, there will be 2-3 events per day hosted across campus. Examples of events will include the Ashe Lecture Featuring Rose Gottemoeller, an event in partnership with the Center for National Security and Foreign Affairs. This lecture, given by former Deputy Secretary General of NATO, will go into the New Era of Security: Nuclear Threats and Beyond.
Another event happening through the week is Food for Thoughts, a part of the Dinner and Dialogue series hosted by the Office of the Dean of Students and Division of Access and Engagement. This event is an informal gathering where students are invited to share a meal and engage in intentional conversations with one another. And the International Friendship Program encourages students to slow down and connect meaningfully across different cultures.
Students are also invited to visit Hodges Library during the week where a related display will be presented. For students who are interested, books and other resources relative to the topic will be available to checkout.
Be on the lookout for upcoming events on the calendar.utk.edu website or by downloading the VolConnect app. Bring your friends and we hope to see you there!
