Cadek Hall, pronounced “CHAH-dek,” opened its doors on March 26, 1961. This landmark was the first building at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) specifically designed for the fine arts. Before Cadek Hall, students took art and music classes in other campus buildings. The new space provided over 20,000 square feet for music, art, speech, and dance classes, marking a significant step for UTC’s growth in education and culture.
The building’s design, a mix of ultra-modern interiors with an exterior in collegiate Gothic style, was intended to blend with nearby architecture, like Hunter Hall. Its creators, Percy B. Shepherd and Earl C. Smith, included unique features like classical figures and decorative carvings. Community ties strengthened as Cadek Hall was named after Joseph Ottokar Cadek, a renowned violinist who founded the Cadek Conservatory of Music in Chattanooga in the early 1900s.
The conservatory initially partnered with UTC, allowing students to earn credit for conservatory classes. This relationship continued until 2015 when the conservatory relocated. Cadek Hall also housed WUTC radio station until 2022, and has since become a hub for the Music and Theatre departments, with facilities for classes and offices.
Interestingly, Cadek’s legacy is still relevant today. Recent surveys show that arts education significantly boosts student confidence and creativity, which are essential skills in today’s job market. According to a 2021 National Endowment for the Arts report, schools that prioritize arts education see a marked improvement in student engagement and academic performance.
While Cadek Hall’s history is rich, its story isn’t just about education; it’s about community, creativity, and growth. As UTC continues to evolve, Cadek Hall stands as a reminder of the university’s commitment to the arts and its place in Chattanooga’s educational landscape.
For more insights, you can explore UTC’s Special Collections.
