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The event, taking place on April 20, is an opportunity to give back to the region through hands-on service and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Dula.

Dula Day, a day of both celebration and community service, is taking place on Saturday, April 20 at East Tennessee State University.  

The event, launched in 2019 as the “Dula Day of Service,” is held in honor and celebration of the late Dr. Chris Dula, a well-known and beloved faculty member. He joined the university faculty in 2004 and received numerous honors and accolades, including the Distinguished Faculty Award in Teaching. Dula died in January 2019 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. 

Dula, who taught in the ETSU Department of Psychology, was dedicated to the institution, committed to the success of his students and had a passion for community service. As written in the 2018 Proclamation for The Dr. Chris Dula Day of Service by ETSU Board of Trustees, “Dr. Dula will always be known as a scholar who nobly embodies the entire mission of ETSU, from teaching to research, to public events.” Dula Day continues his legacy, emphasizing service, giving and love for all. 

The event, an ETSU tradition, is now known simply as “Dula Day,” and is an opportunity for students, faculty, staff and community members to give back to the region through hands-on service and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Dula in the heart of ETSU’s campus.  

The day, sponsored by the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement, the Student Government Association and Volunteer ETSU, will begin at 8 a.m. in Borchuck Plaza. Volunteers will serve with local agencies throughout the morning, working to address hunger and homelessness in the region.  

Volunteers must pre-register and will receive breakfast and a Dula Day shirt. To sign up as a volunteer, visit etsu.edu/dula and complete the registration form.  

The Dula Day Celebration will then take place in the afternoon from noon-2:30 p.m. The festivities, including live music, food and an opportunity to hear from some of the non-profit organizations serving the Appalachian Highlands, will take place on ETSU’s main campus in Borchuck Plaza. 

The Dula Day Celebration is free and open to the public. Morning service is not required to attend the afternoon celebration.  

Visit etsu.edu/dula for more information on Dula Day or contact the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement at serve@etsu.edu. For disability accommodations, contact the Office of Disability Services at (423) 439-8346.