Vol is a Verb
Programs, experiences, and opportunities on campus where students can grow in their leadership skills, rise to the next level in their personal interactions, and explore all that it means to be a Volunteer are identified under one umbrella initiative through Vol is a Verb.
At UT, we all have a role to play in creating a positive campus environment. As a phrase, “Vol is a Verb” means that leadership is action. Active leadership means being involved, engaging with others, and pursuing your best, most authentic self. Vol is a Verb is a university-wide commitment to make Rocky Top the best it can be.
The pathways to exemplify this way of life are wide and varied but defined in three core steps:
- Explore: What experiences and events invite me to explore and identify opportunities so I can better understand what leadership is and what it means for my Volunteer community?
- Practice: What experiences and events create pathways for me to develop the capacity and practice to become more proficient in facilitating relationships within my Volunteer community?
- Live: What experiences and events support me as I live out my commitment to being a Vol and make this action a way of life within my Volunteer community and beyond?
United at the Table
Join 500 of your closest friends for a free dinner at one really long table on Thursday, September 24, 2026, beginning at 5 p.m. until we serve all the food! You’ll see the table on the Pedestrian Walkway Bridge between the Student Union and Neyland Stadium. This event invites our campus community to join together around a meal to celebrate unity.
Pack to Give Back
Each year, the Office of the Dean of Students partners with campus and community resources to host a service event for students, faculty, and staff. The products of each service event go right back to the campus or local community. The fifth annual Pack to Give Back event will be held in spring 2027 with a date coming later this fall.
Vol is a Verb Presentation
The Office of Campus Culture and Community offers Vol Is A Verb (VIAV) Educators facilitations for campus partners seeking engaging, educational sessions that support student learning and involvement. These facilitated experiences provide structured content, practical tools, and supportive resources to help groups meet their goals and create meaningful learning outcomes.
