Donate to Mountains to Monuments
As communities nationwide mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, ETSU is proud to take part in this collective moment of reflection and celebration. Through events, programming, and displays offered throughout 2026 and into 2027, the University invites campus and community members to engage with the nation’s past, present, and future.
Is your office, department, or student group hosting an event or program? Let us know about your plans to recognize America 250 below.
Share Your 250 Plans or Ideas Here!
Events & Opportunities
America the Beauitiful
May 18 - July 17, 2026
An exhibition featuring thirty photographs by members of the Johnson City Amateur Photography Club. America the Beautiful thematically reflects the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Tennessee Frontier Room
July 2026 - May 2027
The Tennessee Frontier Room features artifacts from the Reece Permanent collection that explore 250 years of regional history.
Black Heritage Trail Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony with the City of Johnson City
August 6 | 10:30 AM | Langston Centre
The Black Heritage Trail will highlight the stories, landmarks, and contributions
of Black residents who helped shape our community. This self-guided trail will connect
historically significant places, share untold histories, and honor the lives and legacies
that continue to influence our city today.
Mountains to Monuments: Washington D.C. Experience
Fall Break 2026
Mountains to Monuments provides ETSU students with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel beyond the mountains of Northeast Tennessee and experience the history and heritage of our nation’s capital. During Fall Break 2026, students who have never visited Washington, D.C., will explore iconic landmarks, engage with the stories that shaped America, and gain a deeper understanding of our nation’s history as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Through immersive experiences, reflection, and connection, students will see firsthand the monuments, museums, and places that represent the ideals and ongoing story of the United States.
To keep costs low and make this experience accessible for more students, we are seeking
financial contributions from supporters. On average, it costs approximately $500 to provide one student the opportunity to
travel to Washington, D.C. and experience our nation’s history firsthand. Your support helps make Mountains to Monuments possible.
Donate to Mountain to Monuments Here
Check back here for updates on additional events, programs, and opportunities to celebrate!
State & National Opportunities
Recent News
ETSU's America 250 Committee
In January of 2026, East Tennessee State Univeristy established an America 250 Committee to help coordinate, promote, and uplift both new and exisiting programming across campus while championing ETSU's celebration of America 250.
| Dr. Jennifer Adler; Assistant Professor, History | Scott Jeffress; Executive Director, Roan Scholars Leadership Program |
| David Atkins; Dean, Sherrod Libraries | Shelby Koerten; Student Government Association Representative |
| Dan Bishop; Director, Military and Veterans Affairs | Rebecca Proffitt; Director, Reece Museum |
| Jennifer Clements; Executive Director, Martin Center and University Events | Dr. Ron Roach; Chair, Appalachian Studies |
| Dr. Felipe Fiuza; Director, Language and Culture Resource Center | Keisha Shoun; Director of Public Affairs, City of Johnson City |
| Nathan Farnor; Community Engagement Specialist, Center for Community Engagement | Dr. Alan Stevens; Faculty Senate Representative |
| Joy Fulkerson; Director, Office of Leadership & Civic Engagement (CHAIR) | Wendy Guinn; Staff Senate Representative |
| Dr. Steph Frye-Clark; Director, Mary B. Martin School of the Arts | Melissa Nipper; Executive Director of Communications, University Marketing and Communications |
| Dr. Colin Glennon; Chair, Political Science |
For questions or additional information, please contact Joy Fulkerson, Committee Chair, at fulkersj@etsu.edu.