UT’s Office of Flagship Communities (OFC) is a team within the Division of Access and Engagement dedicated to fostering university-community partnerships that inspire middle and elementary school students to consider post-secondary education. We ensure that students have access to the resources they need to succeed. Through programs and partnerships, the office raises awareness that an education at the University of Tennessee is available, accessible, and within reach for all students.

We provide programming focused on academic preparation, career exploration, ACT/SAT prep, and family engagement to help students succeed on their path to higher education. We identify and remove barriers to post-secondary opportunities.

Yes. Data shows that early exploration and exposure to developmental opportunities can motivate and empower students with the tools to achieve success. Elementary and middle school is not too early to begin introducing students to pathways to higher education by providing college awareness, alignment, and experiences.

Our Vol Ready Passport Program addresses achievement gaps, builds college awareness, and supports pathways to the University of Tennessee. Our comprehensive signature programs prepare K-8 students for success through academic preparation, career exploration, family engagement, and college readiness. These initiatives include:

• Vol G.E.M.S. (Academic Prep – middle school )
• Vol K.I.D.S. (Academic Prep – elementary school)
• UT C.L.I.M.B. (Career Exploration)
• Vol D.R.E.A.M. (Family Engagement)
• Vol S.T.A.R.T.S. (Test Prep)

UT is committed to making higher education more affordable and accessible to Tennesseans through its Flagship Scholarship program. This program is part of the UT Tri-Star Scholarship suite, which is specifically designed to help Tennesseans achieve an affordable education at the university. With the addition of 14 high schools in 2024, there are now a total of 52 Flagship high schools in Tennessee.

The Flagship Scholarship program ensures that graduates from Flagship high schools who are admitted to UT Knoxville receive scholarships that cover tuition and mandatory fees in combination with the HOPE scholarship. This initiative aims to alleviate financial barriers and make higher education more attainable for students across the state.

We focus on elementary and middle schools that feed directly into the 52 high schools designated as Flagship schools. These high schools are evaluated every three years based on socioeconomic metrics.

Educators, community leaders, families, and students can participate in OFC programs, events, and partnerships. Contact your regional coordinator or use our contact form to learn more.

UT Flagship Scholarship Information
HOPE Scholarship Details
Division of Access and Engagement
UT Admissions
Campus Visit Information