DR. THREET HONORED AS A 'FOUNDING FATHER' DURING UT SPACE INSTITUTE’S FAMILY PICNIC

The University of Tennessee Space Institute honored one of its founders, welcomed 19 new full-time students and several new employees, ate barbecue and ice cream, and played at its recent annual family picnic.

Dr. Ewing J. Threet, a retired Manchester dentist, former state senator, UT graduate, and supporter of the Institute from its planning stage in the early 60’s until now, was presented a plaque as a “founding father.” He has previously been recognized as a “lifetime member” of the Institute’s Support Council.

In presenting the plaque, Dr. John E. Caruthers, associate vice president and chief operating officer, thanked Threet for his role in helping to establish the graduate school and research center, which opened in 1964, and also for his continuing support. Manchester Attorney James Threet, one of Dr. and Mrs. Ann Beachbord Threet’s three children and a member of the Support Council, also attended the picnic.

Caruthers introduced Dr. William Hofmeister, formerly with Vanderbilt University, who recently joined UTSI as a full-time research professor and the new director of UTSI’s Center for Laser Applications.

Other new employees include Joel Davenport and Peter Sherrouse, research labs, Rodney Allison and Roberta Jackson with the Aviation Systems program, and Samanthia Baker, Palm Edinger, and Anna Ranstrom, UTSI custodians.

The Employee Relations Committee (ERC) planned the picnic. Serving with Patricia Burks-Jelks, Director for Human Relations, were Chris Armstrong, Clara Ferguson, Charles Gonzales, Dr. George Jensen, Gail Wells and Sean Fischbach representing the Student Government Association. ERC cited Weldon Payne, author of “Web to the Stars,” for helping preserve the Institute’s history.
 

Dr. Ewing J. Threet, left, talks with Dr. William Hofmeister during UTSI’s annual picnic where Threet was honored as a “founding father” of the Space Institute.

Dr. Ewing J. Threet visits with Dr. John Caruthers during UTSI’s annual family picnic.

 

Sailing was one of the big activities during UTSI’s annual picnic.

Writer: Weldon Payne (931) 393-7222
wpayne@utsi.edu