When John Shumaker assumed the presidency of UT, the President’s Suite on the eighth floor of the Andy Holt Tower was carpeted in orange carpet. In April 2003 Shumaker ordered new carpet. Instead of orange, or a neutral color, he ordered $40,000 worth of “crimson flow” carpet—the color of arch-rival Alabama, as well as of the University of Louisville, where he had been president before coming to UT. In September 2003 Interim President Joe Johnson announced that the carpet would not be installed (an activity that would have cost an additional $13,000) but would be stored until a suitable use for it could be found. In November 2003 the carpet was included in a surplus property sale, with a minimum bid of $40,000. Two bids were received.
Recent News
More News- Congratulations to Spring 2025 Graduating Library Student Workers!
- UT Press Publishes "Report Card Nation: The Inside Story of Education Reform Under George W. Bush"
- Thura Mack Receives Excellence in Academic Outreach Award
- Libraries Co-Hosts ‘Great Expectations in Healthcare’ Nursing Conference for K-12 Students
- Jazz Pianist and Composer Donald Brown Premieres New Work Inspired by Libraries' Archives, March 26
- Survey Helps Libraries Improve Services
- Black History Month Exhibit
- Knoxville’s Largest Little Library