Gordon Burghardt Weighs in on Reptile Moods
Long dismissed as unintelligent, reptiles are emerging as cognitively and emotionally complex animals. A new study involving tortoises suggests that they also possess mood states.
Archives for September 2025
Liz Derryberry Honored as Athletics Professor of Excellence
The Athletics Professor of Excellence awards started in the 2024-2025 academic year as a result of the advocacy of the Faculty Senate, in partnership with the University of Tennessee Athletics Department. The awards, which are funded by Athletics and come with a $15,000 honorarium, recognize professional excellence and outstanding university citizenship at the departmental, college, or university levels.
Jacob Suissa Receives Grady L. Webster and Barbara D. Webster Structural Botany Publication Award
The Grady L. Webster and Barbara D. Webster Award is a rotating award presented in alternating years by the American Society of Plant Taxonomists and the Botanical Society of America.
Ijams Hails Bats – Lots of Bats – with New Habitat House
Under the direction of University of Tennessee professor emeritus Gary McCracken and Ijam’s conservation director, Ben Nanny, a bat house has been constructed near Meads Quarry that’s expected to attract a large colony of Mexican free-tailed bats that will prove to be a delight for Ijams visitors.
Crowded Conditions Muddle Frogs’ Mating Choices
Female treefrogs prefer a mate with an impressive call, but the crowded environments give unattractive males an edge, according to a new international study led by Assistant Professor Jessie Tanner of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Mike Dennis Wins College of Arts & Sciences Volunteer of the Year Award
Mike Dennis Wins College of Arts & Sciences Volunteer of the Year Award
Mike Dennis and Interim Executive Dean Robert Hinde
Congrats to Botany and EEB alumnus Mike Dennis, the 2025 recipient of the College of Arts & Sciences Volunteer of the Year Award! Dennis’ long-term support for graduate and undergraduate students through the Breedlove-Dennis awards has enabled field experiences in botany that have been so impactful for so many.
Read the full story on the College of Arts & Sciences.
