COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 10, 2004) — Not even university presidents can be more than one place at a time, but thanks to a new program at Tennessee Tech University, a select group of students chosen to be President’s Ambassadors are helping.

The mission of the team — made up of about 20 students whose majors vary from engineering to history — is to present a positive image of the university to all students and guests by welcoming them to campus, answering any possible questions and assisting them with any other needs that may arise.

“This is a prestigious new program at TTU, and I’m honored to work with the prominent young men and women who’ve been selected to participate. I’m very pleased to have their assistance,” said TTU President Bob Bell.

Nominated by a selection committee made up of university administrators, the group’s initial duty was to assist at the Tennessee Board of Regents meeting held at TTU in June, and their responsibilities have continued steadily into the academic year.

They have assisted with the annual welcome back dinner on the lawn of the Walton House presidential home and have been stationed at strategic locations on campus to provide assistance as students returned to campus for the fall semester.

Other typical situations in which the President’s Ambassadors will assist include student visits from TTU’s sister institution, Dohto University in Japan, and visits to campus by legislators, TBR representatives, TTU foundation members and other distinguished guests.

The group may also serve in a student advisory capacity to the president.

The program is similar to President’s Ambassador programs already in place at some other universities.

--Tracey LeFevre
This information posted 16 September 2004