With the University of Tennessee being one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States, tradition remain important to the volunteers. All Campus Events (ACE) has played a central role in carrying on tradition by overseeing long-standing events such as Carnicus, Homecoming, All-Sing and VOL Challenge.

Directors’ chairman of ACE, John Schultz, has participated in ACE for over two years and knows the value of upholding UT traditions. “Everything that goes on has to do with tradition and people remember that,” said Schultz, “It gives them a tie back to the university as well as ties to all the generations that have come through our beloved university.” 

Celebrating its 100^th anniversary, Carnicus is a prime example of traditions growing at UT. Carnicus was originally a part of June Jubilee which began in 1912. June Jubilee was a carnival that showcased Glee Club performances and vaudeville shows. Thirteen years later, the event was given the name Carnicus, and over the years, it has transformed into the skit-based performance that it is today.

We are an all campus event so we want all of campus truly to participate in our  events. -Lauren Charles, Committee Chair for All Campus Events

Without ACE, Carnicus or the other university events would not be possible. ACE’s responsibilities in these events include picking the dates, the venues, appointing the judges, hiring the entertainment, enforcing the rules, and coming up with fresh new ideas. Approximately thirty-five students are members of the ACE team and they work all year to organize UT traditions that help sustain the bond between alumni and current students.

Unknown to most people, ACE completely funds all of its own events. “ACE is one of the only self-sustained committees within the offices of student activities that receive no funding from the university,” says Schultz. He feels that this gives everyone on ACE a sense of pride.  

Most of the traditional UT events are known because of the active  participation of the Greek community. However, the ACE committee is hoping this soon changes. Senior committee chair Lauren Charles asserts, “In ACE we want more non-Greek organizations to participate in our events. We are an all campus event. So we want all of campus truly to participate in our events.” ACE tries to enforce this by allowing each Greek organization to only have two representatives on the ACE team.

ACE is always looking for potential members who are passionate about carrying on UT’s traditions. To find more information about being part of the ACE team, or participating in yearly events, contact ACE@utk.edu.

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