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Wednesday, November 11, 2026Nov 11

University of Tennessee: $59,000 Power T world record event was worth cost

Volunteers stood together to create a Power T that spanned 190 feet by 190 feet, encompassing the majority of Shields-Watkins Field at Neyland Stadium. NBC's Today show viewers witnessed the feat, which was part of Rokerthon 3, weatherman Al Roker's weeklong trek to five universities to break world records. (Photo: University of Tennessee)
Volunteers stood together to create a Power T that spanned 190 feet by 190 feet, encompassing the majority of Shields-Watkins Field at Neyland Stadium. NBC's Today show viewers witnessed the feat, which was part of Rokerthon 3, weatherman Al Roker's weeklong trek to five universities to break world records. (Photo: University of Tennessee) Volunteers stood together to create a Power T that spanned 190 feet by 190 feet, encompassing the majority of Shields-Watkins Field at Neyland Stadium. NBC's Today show viewers witnessed the feat, which was part of Rokerthon 3, weatherman Al Roker's weeklong trek to five universities to break world records. (Photo: University of Tennessee)

The University of Tennessee’s world record in forming the largest human letter was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students that officials say more than paid for itself in marketing outcomes, but it also came at a cost.

The event in March cost $59,871, according to a report on discretionary spending at the Knoxville chancellor’s office.

“The expenditure brought about a lot of value for the university, especially since the event was just five weeks prior to our admissions confirmation deadline and the national exposure allowed us to share our school traditions/spirit with viewers/ families at a key time of year for us,” university spokeswoman Karen Simsen said in an email.

Read more at our news partner’s website, knoxnews.com.