Samantha is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program. She is from Crystal Lake, Illinois, and is majoring in psychology and minoring in human development and family sciences. Samantha has thoroughly enjoyed her experience in University Honors because of the application to real-world concepts in her honors courses, interactions with professors and like-minded students, and overall support that she receives as an Honors student. 

On campus, Samantha is actively involved in Undergraduate research as a Research Assistant in Dr. Tas’ Visual Perception and Cognition lab.  She is also involved in Psychology club and Best Buddies where she serves as a peer buddy for UT FUTURE students. This year Samantha will be serving as a VOLthon team captain and is responsible for team planning and fundraising efforts. She is also a part of Greek Life on campus as a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending UT football games, volunteering, going to country music concerts, and painting. After graduation, Samantha plans to attend an Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing program, and hopes to pursue a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Jamison Arthur is a sophomore from Nashville, Tennessee, majoring in finance and accounting. She is part of the Chancellor’s Honors Program and the Haslam Business Fellows, enjoying the community of driven, like-minded students while being academically challenged. On campus, she is involved with groups like the Tennessee Capital Markets Society and the Masters Investment Learning Center, where she delves into finance and investment. Jamison has also taken on leadership roles, including heading recruitment for her sorority, Delta Delta Delta, and working as a Pilates instructor at a local studio. Passionate about giving back, she volunteers at Haynes Garden, helping kids with their schoolwork. After graduation, she plans to move back to Nashville to pursue a career in finance. As an Honors Ambassador, Jamison is excited to share her love for the program with prospective students who have similar aspirations.

Riley is a sophomore from Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, majoring in biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology and minoring in American Sign Language. She hopes to one day get her MD/PhD and practice medicine while also working on groundbreaking medical research. Riley is part of the Chancellor Honors Program.

On campus, Riley has marched two seasons with the Pride of the Southland, UT’s renowned marching band. She is also on the executive board as the Vice President of Communications for an up-and-coming pre-med fraternity, Mu Epsilon Delta. As VP of Communications, she works on running the social media platforms for the fraternity and keeping up communication with potential members and speakers. In her free time, Riley loves dancing with her friends, curling up with a book, and being out in nature.

Thanks to the wonderful Honors community at UT, Riley has found a fantastic group of friends to help support and ground her as she works towards her degree.

Emma Collins is a sophomore from Franklin, Tennessee. She is a part of the Chancellor’s Honors Program studying sociology in criminology & criminal justice and minoring in business administration. On campus, Emma spends her time outside of classes involved in many different organizations around UT. This includes, but not limited to, being a brother of the Kappa Alpha Pi Law Fraternity to advance her proficiency in professionalism, law, and government. Similarly, she is involved with the Undergraduate Association of Forensic Sciences to grow her knowledge of the field of forensics and scope of criminalistics. With this, she is also a part of the Honors Student Engagement Council as the enrichment director and treasurer, organizing and overseeing service-based, community, and outreach events for the honors program. Off campus, Emma is involved with the nationwide nonprofit organization Diversify Our Narrative and volunteers at the local animal shelter. Emma loves line dancing, advocacy, spending time with friends, animals, and experiencing new things! She has greatly enjoyed her time with University Honors and believes it is one of the most rewarding opportunities on campus.

Caroline Doyle is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program. She is from Rockville, Maryland, and is majoring in nursing. Her time in University Honors has allowed her to grow not only as a student but as a leader and a global citizen. Outside of the classroom, she is a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma where she serves as the new member event coordinator. She is also involved in many philanthropic student organizations including acting as the vice president of community outreach for the Helping Hands club and as social media chair for our school’s chapter of Period. She is also a member of the Student Nurses Association and several other clubs allowing her to pursue her passion for service. In her free time, Caroline enjoys spending time outside, photography, working at AS Revival, and attending UT sporting events! Her experience as an ambassador and an honors student has taught her many valuable life lessons about professionalism, fostering meaningful relationships, and managing her time. She hopes to use what she has learned at UT to pursue a career as a pediatric oncology nurse practitioner after graduation.

Nicole Gann is a sophomore from Harriman, TN in the Haslam Leadership Scholars program. She is majoring in public health with a minor in One Health on the pre-medical track concentrating in community health and epidemiology. After graduation, she plans on attending graduate school and working in the medical field as an advocate for health care in Appalachia. In addition to her involvement in the Honors Ambassadors program, she is involved with many other organizations on campus. She is the secretary of the University of Tennessee Medical Center Ambassadors, leading tours for high schoolers interested in the medical field. Additionally, she is involved with the Appalachian Justice Research Center, where she is helping conduct research on community vibrancy and youth retention in rural Appalachian counties. Nicole is also involved with the Appalachian Studies Club, the Public Health Student Association, and Volunteers for Christ. Outside of school, Nicole is an avid volunteer, serving at the University of Tennessee Medical Center and her local library and food pantry. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, getting outdoors, and watching the Vols play! As an honors ambassador, she wishes to use her own experiences with the program to help empower other students in the pursuit of higher academia. The community this program affords is one of a kind, and she hopes to help others experience the growth and invaluable opportunities that the Honors Program gives its students!

Anna Powell is a sophomore from Montgomery, Alabama, majoring in Biology with a Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology concentration with a minor in Hispanic Studies. She plans to attend medical school and become a physician with a strong understanding of Hispanic culture and the Spanish language in order to be a better doctor to those who may not speak English as their first language. She is part of the Chancellor’s Honors Program.

On campus, Anna serves as the School Chair for Inskip Elementary on behalf of Clinic Vols, a UT club which its members volunteer at Knox County elementary schools as nurse’s assistants. Through this position, she has developed valuable skills such as teamwork and communication. She is also involved in her sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha. Through her sorority, she experienced many opportunities that have allowed her to thrive in her passion for service, including volunteering at organizations like Little Chefs, Big Change, and Keep Knoxville Beautiful.

In her free time, Anna loves to go on coffee runs with her sorority sisters, tailgate at UT football games, and have a relaxing day at the Quarry.

She is excited to be an ambassador for University Honors because she is able to give back to an organization that has provided her with so many unique opportunities!

Rachel Sokalsky is a junior in the 1794 Honors Program. She is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is majoring in audiology and speech pathology with a minor in child and family studies. During Rachel’s first year at the university she was looking for a way to challenge herself and grow both as a student and a person and by joining the honors program as a sophomore she believes it was the perfect way to do this. She is so grateful for her time and the opportunities she has been presented with since joining University Honors.

On campus, Rachel is actively a co-recruitment chair for All Campus Events, the graphic design chair for the National Student Speech Language Association, and a general member of Alpha Delta Pi. She also is involved with Psi Society, Order of Omega, and recently served as a recruitment counselor for Panhellenic primary recruitment. This year Rachel has begun assisting Dr. Kristen Secora with research in the speech language pathology field and began to help take over the SLP Research Lab social media. In her free time she serves as a student volunteer at the TEACH group assisting with tasks around the clinic and observing pediatric SLPs. She also enjoys spending time with friends, watching the Vols in Neyland, and traveling with her family. After graduation, Rachel plans to attend a two year graduate program for speech language pathology and hopes to one day work in a medical setting in pediatrics after graduate school.

Kelly is a senior in the Haslam Leadership Scholars Program. She is from Knoxville, TN and is double majoring in Economics and Global Studies. Honors has provided a plethora of opportunities and assistance throughout her three years at UTK.

On campus, Kelly is an Executive Board member of the Economics Club, is part of the Baker Scholars Program and Asian American Intervarsity, and does environmental economics research with Dr. Charles Sims at the Baker School. Outside of school, Kelly loves to volunteer with Girls on the Run Knoxville, For the Love of Reading, and occasional environmental cleanup and gardening events. In her free time, she enjoys running, reading, making new foods, and taking pictures.

Tess is a sophomore from Charlotte, NC majoring in marketing with aspirations to go into higher education or work for a major nonprofit. She is a part of the 1794 Scholars Program, as well as Haslam College of Business’ Business Fellows Honor Program.

On campus, Tess is involved in The Student Government Association, having been programming chair of the First Year Council her freshman year, and is now the advisor of the program. In this role she helps to introduce first-years to UT with a leadership development-focused program by engaging them with different aspects of SGA and its role in the broader UT community. Additionally, Tess is involved in the Haslam College of Business, being a member of the Marketing & Sales Collaborative Program, and the American Marketing Association. In her free time, Tess enjoys dancing, participating in intramural sports, and volunteering with UT’s Basic Needs.

Through University Honors and living in Dogwood (Honors LLC) her freshman year especially, Tess has found a community on Rocky Top full of supportive, like-minded peers that are her now best friends!

Madeline Berry is a junior in the Chancellor’s Honors Program where she is pursuing a double major in psychology and biological sciences with a concentration in microbiology. Born in Johnson City, Tennessee, Madeline grew up immersed in Volunteer spirit and was raised with all things UT. As an Honors Peer Mentor, she is eager to guide fellow students in exploring their potential and navigating life as an Honors student at UT. Madeline aspires to study abroad to cultivate a global perspective on scientific inquiry and advancement. Following the completion of her undergraduate studies, she intends to pursue a PhD in genetics to conduct research. Outside of academics, Madeline enjoys reading, painting, and traveling with friends.

Cate Carter is a sophomore from Knoxville, Tennessee and a member of both the Chancellor’s Honors Program and the Haslam Business Fellows Honors Program. She is passionate about both business and law and is pursuing a dual degree, majoring in economics in the Haslam College of Business and public affairs in the Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs. Additionally, she plans to obtain a concentration in international business, which she studied during a week-long program her freshman year in Costa Rica through the Haslam College of Business’s First Year Experience program. She also plans to study abroad again in the future. Beyond academics, Cate is involved with Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity and the Women in Politics Organization. She plans to attend law school and earn her JD following graduation. In her free time, Cate enjoys reading, hiking, and traveling with friends!

Kate Crass is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Knoxville, Tennessee. She is a dual degree student, studying business management and industrial engineering with a collateral in integrated business and engineering through being part of the Health IBEP 2029 cohort. Beyond academics, she is active in the Honors Student Engagement Council serving as the LLC Events Lead, The Haslam International Case Consultant Team, RUF, Women of Haslam, TASC, and is a University Honors Ambassador. When not doing homework, you can find her baking something new, roller skating, watching a movie, or playing a card game with friends.

Kate Garcia is a junior in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from the Reno/Tahoe area of Nevada. She is majoring in public affairs with a concentration in health policy, hoping to go to law school following her undergraduate studies. Kate is interested in the lobbyist field and hopes to work with non-profit organizations in the future. Outside of her academics, Kate participates in several campus organizations including the sorority of Alpha Chi Omega, UT Wellness Society, and The Cross UTK, looking to hold leadership positions in the coming school year. She loves to do anything outdoors including hiking, paddle boarding, swimming, and climbing and enjoys dancing in her free time. Kate has been loving her time at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and is excited to get to know others in her time as a Peer Mentor!

Holland Harvard is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Maryville, Tennessee. She is currently studying accounting and economics on a pre-law track. On campus, Holland serves as director of facility management for Alpha Delta Pi and is actively involved in Kappa Alpha Pi and Women of Haslam. Outside the classroom, Holland enjoys spending time with friends, reading, traveling, and taking long walks around campus. You can usually find her trying out new coffee shops around town. She hopes to pursue a career in corporate and transactional law

Kate Hoekstra is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Minnetonka, Minnesota. She is double majoring in finance and accounting and is also a member of Business Fellows. Looking to her future, Kate is passionate about pursuing a career in investment banking and is especially interested in private equity. Kate is involved in several organizations across campus including Tennessee Capital Markets Society, Delta Delta Delta sorority, and Women of Haslam, where she enjoys connecting with peers who share her same passions. In her free time, Kate enjoys anything outside whether that be spending time on the lake, going for a hike, or going to sporting events. She also loves to run and has completed multiple marathons, including the Knoxville marathon this past April! She is excited to continue growing academically and professionally at UT and looks forward to working with incoming Honors students.

Danial Khan is a junior in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Knoxville, Tennessee. He is working towards a dual degree in Arabic and biological sciences, with a concentration in biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology. Danial is involved in research with organizations such as the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine and the Tennessee Reading Research Center. He has previously served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant in the Biology Department and participated in cross-disciplinary initiatives with the Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs. In addition, he is serving as the vice president of the American Medical Student Association. Ultimately, Danial aspires to leverage these experiences to pursue a career in medicine. Outside of academics, Danial enjoys drawing, fitness, and reading!

Caden Knappier is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Chattanooga, Tennessee. He is double majoring in neuroscience and biological sciences with a concentration in biochemistry, cellular, and molecular biology. Currently, Caden serves as an undergraduate teaching assistant in the Biology Department. He is also an active volunteer with RAM Clinics and the Emerald Youth Foundation and is involved in the Advancement of Neuroscience Club. Caden aspires to become a physician with an interest in Neurology. Outside of academics, he enjoys hiking and skiing.

Bio Coming Soon!

Alexis Laramy is a junior in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Chanhassen, Minnesota. She is double majoring in accounting and finance with a collateral in international business. Aside from her peer mentor role in University Honors, Alexis is an active member of the Business Fellows Honors Program, AIM Accounting Alliance, and the Delta Zeta Sorority. In her free time, she loves attending all UT sporting events, golfing, and spending time at the lake with friends and family. Alexis looks forward to studying abroad for a semester during her time at the university and hopes to pursue a career in the accounting field after graduation. She is excited for the new experiences and opportunities to come in her next two years at UT!

Sarah Lynn is a Junior from Knoxville, Tennessee. She is a double major in finance and accounting, with a concentration in international business. She is a part of the Chancellor’s Honors Program, as well as a Smith Global Leadership Scholar. On campus, she is also a member of the Haslam Student Advisory Council. She volunteers as a soccer coach at the Emerald Youth Foundation. In Spring 2026, she had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in London through the Smith GLS program. Here, she grew as a scholar and leader through rigorous courses taught by the university’s own deans. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading, playing with her dogs, and just being in nature! University Honors has immersed her in a community filled with driven and positive peers. She has been provided with so many opportunities, and she is excited to share them with future students of this program!

Elena Lyons is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Palatine, Illinois. She is majoring in nursing and minoring in nutrition. Elena is the current vice president of supplies for the Global Medical Brigades. She is also actively involved in The Salt Company campus ministry and the Makers Club. In her free time, she loves reading, exploring Knoxville’s coffee shops, traveling, and spending time with friends. She hopes to become an ER nurse and pursue further education to become a nurse practitioner or CRNA. She is excited for what the future will bring both at and after her time here at UT!

Bio Coming Soon!

Julia Meese is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Hudson, Ohio. She is double majoring in finance and marketing with a minor in mathematics, and a collateral in international business. Julia serves as a chapter member in Chi Omega sorority and Delta Sigma Pi professional fraternity. She is also actively involved in Women in Finance, University of Tennessee Investment Group, and University of Tennessee American Marketing Association. She is a dedicated student and is looking forward to supporting her peers in University Honors as well as Haslam College of Business. In Julia’s free time, she enjoys being outside, exercising, traveling, creating visual art, reading, and trying new restaurants and coffee shops. She is always excited to try a chai latte! Julia recently completed UT’s International Internships program in Paris, France. She cannot wait for what is in store these next few years at UT!

Caitlin Maher is a senior from Rockford, Illinois, enrolled in both the Chancellor’s Honors Program and the Business Fellows Honors Program. She is pursuing a dual major in management and accounting, with a collateral in international business and a concentration in finance. Outside of academics, Caitlin is involved with the Tennessee Undergraduate Consulting Club, Kappa Alpha Pi law fraternity, and the Wilson Academy. Caitlin has studied abroad twice already in her undergraduate career, in Costa Rica and Florence, Italy, with plans to embark on a mini-term next winter to Japan. Following graduation, she plans to attend law school. In her free time, she enjoys grabbing coffee with friends, working out, and, of course, cheering on the Vols!

Isabella Marante is a junior in the Chancellor’s Honors Program and has lived in Greeneville, Tennessee, for the past seven years. She is an accounting major with an information management collateral, and following graduation, plans to pursue a Master of Accountancy and become a certified public accountant. Outside of academics, she is involved in Women in Accounting and the AIM Accounting Alliance, where she has served as a Peer Mentor. Formerly a member of The Fashion Society’s executive board, Isabella is looking forward to broadening her campus involvement and leadership going into next year. In her free time, Isabella enjoys reading, thrifting, watching movies, and spending time with friends. As an Honors Peer Mentor, she is excited to contribute to the Honors community and support students in their experience at UT!

Denisa Pecen is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program, originally from Bloomingdale, Illinois. She is pursuing a major in business management, with an interest in entrepreneurship and international business. Denisa is involved on campus through organizations such as Alpha Kappa Psi, Sigma Kappa, and Women of Haslam. She is also a member of the Business Fellows honors program within the Haslam College of Business. As part of her academic experience, Denisa also participated in the Haslam First-Year Experience Study Abroad program, where she traveled to Costa Rica. Outside of academics and campus involvement, Denisa enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, playing cards, and connecting with friends. She is driven by her goal of one day launching or managing a global company and is eager to continue growing both personally and professionally throughout her time at UT and beyond.

Katie Peterson is a junior in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Jackson, Mississippi. She is currently majoring in psychology with the plan of adding a minor in Spanish and going to speech language pathology graduate school. She is involved in the UT Wellness Club, the Volunteer Puppy Partner club, volunteering with different organizations in Knoxville, and is a member of the Phi Mu Sorority. Katie is excited to join more clubs next year and become more involved on campus. In her free time, she loves hanging out with friends, exploring Knoxville, going to school sporting events, going on walks, and meeting new people.

Natalie Ripley is a junior in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Greeneville, Tennessee. She is majoring in history and anthropology with a minor in cinema studies. She’s hoping to further her studies in archeology and pursue similar studies in grad school as well as abroad. Natalie is the head archeology representative for the Undergraduate Anthropology Association on campus, and she is a resident assistant in Reese Hall. She loves spending time outside to reconnect with nature and going on hikes. She loves movies and her favorite of all time is Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me. Natalie has been loving her time at UT, and she looks forward to helping other students reach their goals and thrive here and beyond!

Mattie Robble is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Brentwood, Tennessee. She is majoring in animal science with a pre-veterinary concentration and has a goal to attend veterinary school following graduation. Mattie is also a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority and Pre-Veterinary Club. Outside of academics, she loves volunteering at Young Williams Animal Center, spending time with friends, and going on hikes or being outdoors in her free time. As an Honors Peer Mentor, Mattie hopes to engage with new students, helping them take advantage of the opportunities available by being an Honors student. She is excited to become more involved at UT and to see what the next years will bring!

Brooke Routen is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honor Program from Memphis, Tennessee. She is majoring in pre-medicine with a minor in Hispanic studies. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, being outdoors, crocheting, embroidery, listening to music, and exercising. She is involved with Ablaze magazine, Phi Delta Epsilon, Volunteer Short Films, and the Martial Arts Club. After graduation she plans on attending medical school with a specialty in physciatry or family medicine and one day start her own medical non-profit.

Charley Stagnolia is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Knoxville, Tennessee. He is majoring in nuclear engineering with a collateral in biology. Charley is a passionate and driven student eager to explore the intersections of science and medicine through the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Aside from his role in University Honors, Charley is actively involved in on-campus research, is a member of Phi Chi, serves as a nurse tech at UT Medical Center, and volunteers with Remote Area Medical. These experiences continue to fuel his passion for helping others and preparing for a future in medicine. In his free time, he loves golfing, spending time at the lake with friends and family, and attending UT sporting events! Charley hopes to attend medical school after graduation.

Francesca Stazzone is a sophomore in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Brentwood, Tennessee. She is pursuing a double major in neuroscience and pre-professional medicine along with a Chancellor’s Honors minor. This summer, Francesca will study abroad in Bologna, Italy through UT’s Italian program. On campus, she serves as Homecoming director for Alpha Gamma Delta and is involved in  VPP, Future Greek Leaders, VolCatholic, Delight UTK, Italian Club, Future Medical Leaders, and Advancement of Neuroscience. As an Honors Peer Mentor, she is excited to support incoming students as they transition into their first year at UT. After completing her undergraduate studies, Francesca plans to attend medical school and pursue a career in medicine. Outside of academics, she enjoys hiking, singing, watching movies, and attending football games with friends.

Matthew Tyler Traywick is a senior in the Chancellor’s Honors Program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, majoring in biological sciences with a concentration in microbiology, as well as neuroscience and psychology. He is involved in undergraduate research in the lab of Dr. Heidi Goodrich-Blair, where he studies how genetic variation influences targeting specificity in microbial systems, with a focus on bacteriocins and interbacterial interactions. He has presented his research at university symposia and regional conferences. Outside of research, he enjoys reading books, watching movies, and spending time outdoors. After graduation, Matthew plans to pursue a PhD in microbiology and continue studying how genetic variation shapes microbial interactions.

Sydnie is a Chancellor’s Honors Scholar majoring in Economics with minors in Journalism & Electronic Media and Public Policy Analytics.

Ryan is a Chancellor’s Honors Scholar majoring in Biological Sciences with minors in English and Hispanic Studies.

Ashley is a Chancellor’s Honors Scholar majoring in Political Science.

Emma is a Chancellor’s Honors Scholar majoring in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology & Criminal Justice.

Savannah is a Chancellor’s Honors Scholar and Business Honors scholar majoring in Marketing.

Ava Foley, of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, is a Junior Haslam Leadership Scholar studying Political Science and Public Affairs. Throughout her time at the University of Tennessee, she has become involved in a variety of campus organizations focused on governance, law, and advocacy. Some of the organizations she has been involved in include Tennessee Intercollegiate State Legislature, Student Government Association, Mock Trial, Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity, and the Baker School Student Association. In addition to her on campus involvement, she has also pursued several government internships. She spent the spring semester of her freshman year interning with the City of Knoxville’s Department of Housing and Neighborhood Development and spent the following year with the department as a part time employee. Additionally, she spent the summer after her freshman year interning for Senator Jon Ossoff of Georgia in Washington, D.C. Most recently, she spent the summer after her sophomore year interning for the State of Tennessee’s Department of Disability and Aging. Inspired by her childhood in New York, she is extremely passionate about social justice and equality, and hopes to use her education to become a compassionate leader who betters the lives of many in her community and across the world. Throughout her time at the University of Tennessee, she hopes to continue to engage in student organizations and professional experiences that expand her understanding of how she can make an impact through the political and legal fields.

Isaac Grant is a freshman in the Chancellors’ Honors Program from Signal Mountain, Tennessee. He is double majoring in Economics and Finance with a minor in Complex Problem-Solving. At UTK, Isaac is involved in Tennessee’s Undergraduate Economics Society, Haslam Volunteering, SGA General Body, Economics research, and intramural sports. In his free time, he loves going to all UTK sporting events, hiking, travelling, listening to music, going to the gym, and hanging out with friends. Isaac hopes to study abroad during his time at the University of Tennessee and pursue a career in Finance after graduation.

Owen Graves, of Brentwood, TN, is currently majoring in business management at the Haslam College of Business, where he is also a member of the Management Society. Owen is an Eagle Scout who continues his dedication to scouting as an adult leader in his local Boy Scout troop. He is a member of Brentwood United Methodist Church, where he has served on the Church Council, and as a choir leader and percussionist. In high school, Owen received varsity letters in both wrestling and track, was a member of the student government, and has received recognition for his art. In his free time, you can find Owen at the basketball courts, throwing with the UTK Cornhole Club, and hiking with his friends, all while cheering on the Volunteers!

Jasraj is a freshman from Franklin, Tennessee majoring in Computer Science. He is a member of the Chancellor’s Honors Program, as well as the Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program with the Tickle College of Engineering. He is also treasurer for the College Democrats at UTK, a member of the Indian American Association of UTK, as well as a member of the Honors Student Engagement Council. Outside of academics, he loves playing guitar, debating politics, and reading.

Lauren Johnson is a freshman from Knoxville, Tennessee currently majoring in neuroscience. She is a member of the Chancellor’s Honors Program. On campus, she is involved in the Brain Exercise Initiative and the Leading Women of Tomorrow. In her free time, Lauren enjoys volunteering at local hospitals and non-profits, scuba diving, distance running, and baking. While she is an undergraduate, Lauren hopes to study abroad in the UK and learn about historic forensic anthropology. After graduating, Lauren hopes to attend medical school and eventually become a forensic neuropathologist where she will investigate unexplained causes of death related to the brain and spinal cord. 

Sienna Leake is a freshman in the Chancellor’s Honors Program. She is from Weddington, North Carolina, and is currently in the University Exploratory Program. Outside of Chancellor’s Honors, Sienna is involved in many different campus organizations. She is a member of Alpha Omicron Pi, Tennessee All-Girl Cheer, Chaarg UTK, Canoe and Hiking Club, and UTK Wellness Society. Sienna also enjoys community service, and most recently spent a weekend at Koinonia Retreat as a counselor working with adults with disabilities. Off campus, Sienna enjoys going to the TRECS, hiking, reading, spending time with friends, and more! Last fall, Sienna interned at Carolina Compounding and Nutritional Pharmacy, which fostered her love for pharmacy. In the future, Sienna hopes to pursue a career as a pharmaceutical sales representative.

Danica Nash is a freshman in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Medina, Minnesota. She is currently studying neuroscience and psychology. She is passionate about serving disadvantaged communities and celebrating diversity. After UT, she plans to attend medical school to become a neurologist. Aside from serving on the Honors Student Advisory Board, Danica is also an active member of the Government Relations Team within UT’s Student Government Association. She is also involved as a defenseman for the Lady Ice Vols Club Hockey Team. In her free time, Danica enjoys spending time with friends, being outdoors, and attending UT sports. In the coming years, Danica hopes to get involved in research and volunteering, and she is excited to see what the next few years at UT will bring!

Anna Neal is a freshman in the Chancellor’s Honors Program from Signal Mountain, Tennessee, double majoring in Supply Chain Management and Sustainability with a minor in Complex Problem Solving. She is an active member of the University Honors Student Advisory Board and is involved across campus through Student Government Association First Year Council, Chi Omega, Healthy Celebrations Run Club, Undergraduate Volunteers for Geographers and Sustainers, and Students Promoting Environmental Action in Knoxville. Anna values sustainability and environmental responsibility and is especially passionate about connecting these values with supply chain practices to create meaningful, long-term impact. She is currently applying to become a University Ambassador, Business Fellow, and Smith Global Leadership Scholar for the 2026-2027 academic year and hopes to study abroad during the second semester of her sophomore year through the Smith Global Leadership Scholars program. Outside of academics, Anna enjoys running, hiking, spending time with friends, trying new restaurants, skiing, and traveling whenever possible.

Olivia Parit is a sophomore from Seattle, Washington, majoring in Biology with a concentration in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She is a member of the Chancellor’s Honors Program and participates in undergraduate research investigating the function of kinesin motor proteins. Olivia is involved in MedLife, a medical focused service organization, and serves on a subcommittee for the African Student Association. She plans to attend medical school and pursue a career as an anesthesiologist, with the goal of giving back to communities in Kenya. In her free time, Olivia enjoys playing the trombone, attending dance classes, volunteering, and exploring hidden gems. She values leadership, collaboration, academic excellence, service, cultural awareness, curiosity, resilience, mentorship, integrity, empathy, dedication, growth, and lifelong learning goals.

Joshua Sartain is a sophomore from Hendersonville, Tennessee, majoring in mechanical engineering. He is a part of the Chancellor’s Honors Program and Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program. On campus, Joshua is actively engaged at the Christian Student Center, where he serves as a student leader on the worship team and the welcome and outreach team. He also enjoys sports, competing with the UT Ultimate Frisbee Club team and participating in multiple intramural leagues throughout the year. As a freshman Joshua had the opportunity to serve the on campus Living and Learning Communities as the Honors LLC Ambassador and was selected as a Grand Challenge Fellow. He also broadened his academic and cultural horizons by studying abroad in Milan, Italy during the summer. Currently, he works for the Engineering Fundamentals Department as a Teaching Assistant. Outside of academics, faith, and athletics, Joshua enjoys collecting cards with his family and giving back to the Knoxville community through his involvement with the JustLead after-school program.

Emma Sanders is a freshman from Nashville, Tennessee in the Chancellor’s Honors Program. She is double majoring in Political Science and Interdisciplinary Studies while minoring in Spanish, Sociology, and the Honors minor on the pre-law track. On campus, Emma is also involved in Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity, the Student Government Association’s Government Relations Team, and the leadership and engagement group Meeting in the Middle. She also represents her sorority, Phi Mu, is a member of Omega Phi Alpha National Service Sorority, and participates in Cru UTK. Emma is an avid volunteer, serving various community needs in Nashville and volunteering at Muse Children’s Museum here in Knoxville. She has interned with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and Baxter & Baxter Law Firm, where she shadowed a criminal defense attorney and deepened her understanding of the legal field. Her favorite activity is traveling, and she is thrilled to study abroad in London this summer! She also enjoys staying active, meeting new people, and spending time with friends and family. After graduation, Emma hopes to attend law school and pursue a career in criminal law, where she can advocate for fairness and meaningful change. She is so excited to join UHSAB and knows that supporting honors students through a community of like-minded peers will be an unforgettable experience!

Ella Wood is a freshman from Franklin, Tennessee, and a member of the Chancellor’s Honors Program. She is majoring in Nutrition with a Biomedical Nutrition Science concentration and a Pre-Health Professions minor. After graduation, she plans on going into the medical field and studying anesthesia in graduate school. Ella is passionate about global health and hopes to study abroad during her time at UT. On campus, she is involved in SnowVols, Eighteen Twenty, and loves attending football games. Off campus, she is involved with YoungLife and loves playing pickleball, going to workout classes, and spending time with her friends. She also enjoys volunteering with organizations like UNICEF and OneGenAway. Ella is excited to continue building connections, taking on new challenges, and contributing to the University Honors community.