Publication Date
8-31-2023
Abstract
As Tennesseans reflect on the passing of former Governor Don Sundquist, who died earlier this month, officials at East Tennessee State University are remembering his work to support the university and region.
Sundquist’s influence remains especially large over the paleontology research still happening at ETSU.
The Don Sundquist Center of Excellence in Paleontology is named for him.
“Governor Sundquist recognized the significance and potential of the Gray Fossil Site & Museum, and he had a vision to educate Tennessee and the world about this extraordinary discovery,” said Dr. Blaine Schubert, director of the Gray site, executive director of the Center of Excellence, and a professor in the Department of Geosciences.
Discovered in May 2000 by the Tennessee Department of Transportation during a road construction project on the outskirts of Gray, Sundquist visited the site on August 7. Just a few weeks later, on September 15, the governor made clear that the road project would be relocated to save the fossil site for research and education.
“Through the leadership of Gov. Sundquist and Dr. Paul Stanton, president emeritus, the Gray Fossil Site became an ETSU project,” said Schubert.
In September 2002, Sundquist announced an $8 million Federal Administration grant to ETSU for the development of a museum and visitor’s center at the site. Shortly after the funding announcement, ETSU received more good news: the request to develop a center of excellence had been approved by the state, and it was officially named the Don Sundquist Center of Excellence in Paleontology in December 2002.
The on-site museum and visitor’s center opened to the public in 2007, quickly becoming a steady attraction for the region. A year later, ETSU formally developed the Department of Geosciences, drawing students from around the globe for its paleontology degree programs with expert faculty to teach them.
From the discovery of a bone-crushing dog to the unearthing of an extinct species of painted turtle, scholarship at the site continues to generate headlines all over the United States.
“The Gray Fossil Site & Museum is a regular source of incredible research, as well as a wonderful educational spot for anyone interested in fossils, paleontology, and much more,” said ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland. “We owe Gov. Sundquist a great debt, and our thoughts are with his family during the time.”
Sundquist served as the Volunteer State’s 47th governor, leaving office in 2003. He was a congressman from 1983-1995.
“While he was the governor, and after he retired, he continued to be a strong supporter of the site and its research, educational programming, and public service to Tennessee, the Appalachians, and beyond,” said Schubert.
Document Type
News Article
