Faculty, students, and staff lined the halls and stairwell of the Haslam Business Building on November 18 to celebrate the 95th birthday of Jim Haslam II, the college’s namesake. Orange and white balloons decorated the building for the event, where attendees enjoyed celebratory treats, and Smokey the Dog led everyone in a chorus of “Happy Birthday” before Haslam blew out the candles on his cake.

Dean and Stokely Foundation Leadership Chair Stephen L. Mangum opened the event, highlighting Haslam’s ongoing impact on the college. “I remember coming out of my first meeting with Mr. Haslam, fifteen years ago, and saying, ‘I have just met a truly remarkable individual,’” Mangum recalled. “Today, the college’s core values of integrity, inclusion, insight, and impact reflect Mr. Haslam’s life and character.”

Former Governor Bill Haslam shared insights about his father’s legacy, and Jim Haslam made a few remarks, describing the college as “a business school that gets better every day.”

The college collected thousands of cards and handwritten notes from students, faculty, and staff. The messages were placed in a locally made wooden trunk engraved with Haslam’s initials and delivered to his home for him to enjoy reading at his leisure.

More than a birthday party, the event celebrated Haslam’s legacy and how it continues to inspire and shape the college’s future.