The University of Tennessee has officially launched its fund-raising campaign in an attempt to raise $1 billion.

The kick-off event was held on April 17, 2008 at UT's Thompson-Boling Arena. It started with an introduction and dinner. Then UT President, John Petersen took to the stage to introduce the campaign video.

The evening's program featured appearances from a variety of students and faculty members including UT Martin's Jamaica Me Happy steel drum band, a brass quintet from UTK's School of Music, a rendition of "Guys and Dolls" from the Clarence Brown Theatre and the UT Theatre Department, and a dance routine from the back-to-back national championship-winning UT Dance Team. UT Women's basketball head coach, Pat Summitt and her back-to-back National Championship Lady Vols also took the stage.

Bandit CEO, Michael T. Strickland is on the campaign board and attended the event. Other notable campaign board members include Min Kao- CEO of Garmin, Peyton Manning - NFL Quarterback, John C. Compton - CEO of PepsiCo America Foods, Charles W. Ergen - CEO of Dish Network and James A. Haslam - CEO of Pilot Oil.

Lighting Designer, Chris Lisle programmed the campaign launch. He used Cyberlight Turbos, Martin MAC 2000 Performances, MAC 600s, MAC 500s and High End Systems Studio Spots to light the event. Lighting was controlled by a Flying Pig Systems Whole Hog II and wing.

The "Campaign for Tennessee" seeks support for initiatives that impact student access and success, research, economic development, outreach and goals for globalization. Funds are raised through gifts and pledges, planned gifts and private grants for research, according to UT. UT has already raised $704 million towards their $1 billion goal. This is the university's most ambitious campaign in its 214-year history.