Celebrate the joy of “firsts” with us at one of Chattanooga’s most memorable evenings. Mark your calendar for Thursday, November 12, 2026, and join us at The Chattanoogan Hotel for Chattanooga State’s Dinner of Firsts—our signature “FUNdraising” event supporting first-generation college students.

Each year, we honor an accomplished first-generation college graduate with a spirited and good-natured roast, all while raising vital funds for student success.

This year, we are proud to celebrate Rick Honeycutt—World Series–winning pitcher and former LA Dodgers pitching coach—who was the first in his family to attend college. Julie Elsea will serve as Event Chair. A full lineup of roasters and special guests will be announced soon, but you can count on an evening filled with laughter, inspiration, and heartfelt moments.

We are also honored to welcome Morning Pointe Senior Living, along with First Horizon Bank, as our presenting sponsors.

For more information, please contact:

• Tammy Sawyers at [email protected], (423) 697-3359
• Suzanne Harris at [email protected], (423) 697-3317

Sponsorship Levels

Presidential

$10,000 (2 available). Includes a full-page recognition ad in the program, social media recognition, listing on large screens and sponsor boards, and prime seating for eight. Choose from:

• Video Sponsorship: Recognition on the First in the Family Scholars video
• Wine Sponsorship: Recognition on wine bottles at every table
   

Summa Cum Laude

$5,000. Half-page recognition ad in the program, social media recognition, listing on all sponsor boards on display at the event, and one table with priority seating for eight.

Magna Cum Laude

$3,500. Quarter-page recognition ad in the program, listing on all sponsor boards on display at the event, and one table with preferred seating for eight.

Cum Laude

$2,500. Listing in the program and one table with seating for eight.

Individual seating is available at $300 per person. Can’t attend? Consider a donation in honor of Rick Honeycutt to the Tom Edd Wilson First in the Family Endowed Scholarship.
 

Reservations