Meet the Haslam Leadership Scholars

Seniors - Fourth and Fifth Years

Seniors – Fourth and Fifth Years

	Nathan Clark Nathan Clark will receive his degree in Business Analytics, with a focus on International Business. During his time at the University of Tennessee, Nathan learned the intricacies of working with data, and this sparked a vibrant interest in the more technical field of data science. Though Nathan has knowledge and experience in the application side of analytics, he is excited to get a more specialized understanding of data science and computer programming in future graduate school endeavors. Nathan is extremely proud of his work in the Knoxville community, where he has spent many hours volunteering at Inskip Elementary School and the Harbours Gate Community Outreach Program in Maryville, TN. In the future, Nathan hopes to use his analytical knowledge to positively impact his community and those in need. Nathan is graduating in the fall of 2023, and is considering graduate programs for analytics.
	Caleb Ellis Caleb is a fifth year majoring in information sciences with a concentration in data, information management, and analytics. He joined the College of Communication and Information Land Ambassadors program, and has been invited to attend and speak at various events at the college, such as New Vol Admit Day and the CCI Board of Visitors event. Currently, he works for Edgewater Federal Solutions as an Information Science Specialist at the Department of Energy’s Office of Scientific and Technical Information, and loves the work he does in his field. He appreciates the support from the Haslam Program and the University Honors Office as a whole. His last 4 years at UT have been a time of growth and change, and he’s very thankful for the experiences he has had here.
	Jessie Li Jessie is a senior at the University of Tennessee majoring in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with an honors biomolecular concentration, and is a part of the Haslam Leadership Scholars and Cook Grand Challenge Scholars Program. She serves as a Tickle College of Engineering Ambassador, and enjoys taking part in cultural organizations and doing advocacy work, particularly with immigrant and refugee communities, outside of school. She hopes to one day work in the biotechnology industry, and is interested in early drug discovery and development.
	Maggie Meystrik Maggie is a fifth year student in the University of Tennessee School of Design. She focuses her work on analogue techniques, sustainability, and finding creative solutions to design problems. She is interested in the relationships between people and how they experience their environments. By pairing a BFA in design with a masters in landscape architecture, she hopes to learn more about how plants and built frameworks can shape our perceptions of spaces.

Seniors - Fourth Years

Seniors – Fourth Years

	Ivanna Adames Ivanna is studying architecture with a minor in sustainability and plans to attend graduate school abroad for landscape architecture or sustainable urbanism. On campus, Ivanna is highly involved within the College of Architecture + Design through the American Institute of Architecture Students, Freedom by Design, and the Dean’s Student Advisory Council. She hopes to pursue architecture on a residential and commercial scale, and integrate passive design strategies to create more enjoyable living and working spaces. Outside of architecture, Ivanna loves growing closer to her Ukrainian and Colombian heritages through travel and learning languages; she is fluent in Russian and Spanish and is learning French. Her connections to Ukraine have also inspired her mission to aid in the process of rebuilding Ukraine when the time comes, and she is currently working on research surrounding architectural interventions for refugees.
	Jacob Altrock Jacob is a senior majoring in music performance with a concentration in voice and a German minor. He serves as president of VolOpera. He volunteers to teach voice to youth at the Joy of Music School. Jacob performed in Scotland and England through the UT Chamber Singers and studied abroad in Ireland with the Haslam Scholars. Over the summer, he studied at Vanderbilt in the SongFest program. Following graduation, Jacob plans to attend graduate school.
	Christiane Alvarez Christiane is studying Neuroscience with an English minor. She is currently a research assistant for Dr. Jacobson at Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducting brain-wide single-cell genetic analysis to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. For her Haslam thesis, she is working in Dr. Prosser’s neuroscience lab where she assists with the development of a new microfluidic device to collect highly resolute data samples for studying temporal, spatial, and molecular responses of mouse brain tissue. She worked for two years as a Clinical Assistant at Genesis Neuroscience Clinic, a geriatric medical clinic treating patients with neurodegenerative, dementia-related brain disorders. She is a Vols2Vols Peer Health Tutor with the Center for Health Education & Wellness and provides informational programming about the eight dimensions of wellness. Since her sophomore year, she has worked as a Writing Tutor at the JAH Writing Center. After graduation, she intends to take two gap years working and researching in a neuroscience laboratory before pursuing an MD or Ph.D. The highlight of her undergraduate career was studying abroad in Italy with her fellow Haslam Scholar, Courtney Tolbert!
	Ryan Beatty Ryan is a senior in the College Scholars program studying Narrative and Comparative Border Studies. Comparative Border Studies combines classes in anthropology, political science, geography, and sociology to gain an understanding of borders as entities of power. The Narrative side explores how US media present narratives about immigrants, policy, and borders. Ryan has completed research on COVID-19 conspiracy theories and conspiratorial thinking with their mentor Dr. Jana Morgan, which won an award at EuRECA 2023. The two are now working on publishing an article on this research. Ryan has also begun preliminary work on a documentary as a senior thesis! When not in class, Ryan is either volunteering with Centro Hispano, planning and hosting meetings as part of Students for Migrant Justice’s executive board, or walking their dog.
	Jackson “Jack” Duncan Jack is a Haslam Scholar, Peyton Manning Scholar, and Baker Scholar at the University of Tennessee, majoring in Economics and Math. He is particularly interested in finding solutions to issues of public policy. He has demonstrated this as an intern with the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations and during his time as the Co-Director of SGA government affairs. After college, he would like to pursue a Ph.D. in economics and research areas of applied microeconomics.
	Isabella “Bella” Enoch Bella is a senior from Murfreesboro, Tennessee majoring in Business Analytics with a concentration in International Business and a minor in Retail Technology. She is part of the Haslam Leadership Scholars and Smith Global Leadership Scholars Program. She currently serves as the President of the International Business Club, which combines her interests in business and culture. She is involved in her sorority, Alpha Delta Pi, and serves her church under the Catholic FOCUS Missionaries. One of the most rewarding aspects of her college experience so far has been her ability to study abroad in London, Dublin, Galway, and Santiago. She plans to pursue a profession in international business, preferably in the retail industry, where she can use her knowledge of analytics, international travel, and business to be a top performer in her field.
	Jalen “Jay” Humphreys Jalen is a senior majoring in biochemistry. He served as a Senator in Student Government, a research intern at the UT Medical Center, and peer coach mentor with UT Success Academy. He researches peptides and immunoglobulins through the Amyloidosis and Cancer Theranostics Lab. He volunteers with local soup kitchens, Odd Fellows Cemetery, and Youth Villages. Jalen studied abroad in Ireland with the Haslam Scholars. He has studied Spanish throughout high school and college and may pursue a medical career following graduation.
	Sarah Lange Sarah is a senior Haslam Scholar at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville passionate about bridging gaps in healthcare equity and breaking medical stigmas on a community, state, and national level. After scribing in rural and urban emergency rooms and seeing the grip that addiction has on communities across Tennessee, she joined the College Scholars program and designed an interdisciplinary program of study titled Addiction and Behavioral Neuroscience. Through this individually tailored program, she studies the neurological basis of addiction and medical best practice of addiction recovery and treatment with a focus in research studying how to prevent the cyclic patterns of addiction in urban and rural communities from a clinical perspective.
	Kevin “KJ” Malone KJ Malone is a senior at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he is studying Finance with a concentration in International Business. KJ is a member of the Haslam Leadership Scholars program in University Honors, as well as a Smith Global Leadership Scholar in the Haslam College of Business. Outside of class, KJ serves as the Vice President of the Mu Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Campus Relations Chair in Minority Enhancement 4 UT, and is a Peer Coach in the UT Success Academy. KJ plans to pursue a career in corporate finance or business law.
	DeShala McDuffie DeShala McDuffie is a senior at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. She is currently majoring in Racial Disparities in Public Health, a major she created through the College Scholars Program. She is also on a Pre-Medicine track. She is involved in the College Scholars Program, Clinic Vols, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. She also enjoys volunteering at the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. Once she graduates, she plans to take a gap year as she applies for medical school in which she will specialize in pediatrics.
	Logan O’Neal During his time at UT, Logan has pursued his passion for software engineering and machine learning. He worked as an undergraduate research assistant on a project utilizing machine learning to analyze electric bicycle usage. Additionally, he served as an executive member of the UTK machine learning organization, where he helped to organize events and workshops to further student knowledge in the field. He also gained valuable industry experience through an internship at IntApp, a legal technology company, where he interned as a software engineer. In the summer of 2023, he interned at Microsoft as a software engineer on the Azure Core team. He plans to pursue a career in software engineering with the goal of one day founding his own software company.
	Micah Owens Micah Owens is a rising senior majoring in industrial engineering and minoring in business administration and engineering entrepreneurship. She is a Peyton Manning Scholar and a cohort member of the Integrated Business and Engineering Program. She serves as president of the Zeta Delta chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and has also served as vice president of both Sophisticated Queens Unafraid and Driven (SQUAD) and the UTK chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). She chooses to impact her community by working in predominantly black elementary, middle, and high schools in the Knoxville area on a daily basis. On campus, she has been a part of organizations such as the UT Gospel Choir and the Student Government Association. If she’s not in Tickle or Zeneah studying or working on a group project, she can be found at TRECS or the music building with Starbucks in hand. Micah’s favorite college memory thus far has been storming the field after beating Alabama.
	Courtney Tolbert Courtney Tolbert is double majoring in neuroscience and psychology. She currently plans on obtaining her doctorate in occupational therapy with hopes of working as a pediatric occupational therapist. During her time at UT, she has had opportunities in many fields, including jobs related to veterinary medicine, neuroscience research, and writer positions. Through her involvement as a Jones Center Ambassador, she organized service opportunities, led programs, and tabled to students throughout campus. Now, she works as the Jones Center Ambassador Student Director, serving as a resource for JCAs by answering questions, providing insight, and giving general support.
	Alaina Washington During her time at UT, Alaina participated in two study abroad programs, conducted undergraduate research, and interned at a manufacturing plant. These experiences allowed her to explore the world outside of Tennessee and learn more about herself in the process. On campus, she participates in various activities to help increase the diversity within engineering. These include serving as a Tickle College of Engineering Ambassador and Women in Engineering Ambassador, volunteering at the Pond Gap Elementary Engineering Club, and mentoring first year students through the Society of Women Engineers mentoring program. Her academic achievements and involvement on campus helped her to earn the 2022 Outstanding Undergraduate Award from the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. She was also awarded a prestigious international fellowship, DAAD RISE, to conduct research at a German university during the summer of 2023.
	Anna Weis Anna is pursuing a degree in Computer Engineering with a minor in Cybersecurity. She has enjoyed exploring the many fields the major has to offer, especially neuromorphic computing and embedded systems security. She is currently a part of many student organizations while being a part of Engineering Honors and HLS, including HackUTK and University Honors Engagement Council. She plans to pursue her 5 year masters in Computer Engineering at UTK and a career in embedded systems security.

Juniors - Third Years

Juniors – Third Years

	Sidney Bennett In her time at the University of Tennessee, Sidney had amazing opportunities because of how much the Haslam Leadership Scholars invested in her. She served as an undergraduate teaching assistant in an anatomy lab at UT and works for UT Medical Center as a nurse technician. These experiences were so enriching to her education and future career. She also loves investing back in the Knoxville community. She volunteers in the Montgomery Village neighborhood at both the Boys and Girls Club and with a ministry in the neighborhood. She has come to love this community so much, and she loves helping young students with their reading skills and by doing crafts with them! She worked at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital with the Child Life department as a holiday intern. She has volunteered at Vanderbilt Children’s since she was 16 years old, so working there to bring joy to the children and families there was an honor and a dream come true. In the future, she hopes to earn a DNP in pediatric acute and primary care and work in underserved communities to provide children with high quality, holistic care.
	Andrew Bonsted Andrew Bonsted is a junior with a computer science major and data science minor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Through his classes at UT, he became proficient in C++, C, JavaScript and Python and utilized frameworks like React and Vite. Andrew created a Learning Management System similar to Canvas but more intuitive and visually/graphically oriented. He interned with the Tennessee Valley Authority over the summer. After graduation, he plans on jumping into his career as a Software Engineer.
	Laura Dixson Laura is majoring in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and minoring in Wildlife and Fisheries. While at UTK, she is involved in undergraduate research studying Desmognathus imitator salamanders in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. In previous work, Desmognathus imitators are shown to have a different color morph at the cliffs of Balsam Mountain Range, just outside the park. She is studying other cliff faces within the park to explore the possibility of other Desmognathus imitator morphs. Additionally, at some localities, Desmognathus imitator and Desmognathus occoe look nearly indistinguishable. Using DNA analysis, Laura explores the possibility of belly color being a character that could be used to identify the species.
	Haylee Ferguson Haylee’s love for the agriculture industry sparked at a young age as she grew up raising and exhibiting Shorthorn beef cattle across the southeast. Now, Haylee is one of nine to represent over 6,000 youth as she was elected to the American Junior Shorthorn Association board. As she studies Agriculture Economics here at UT, she strives to be a voice for all agriculturists through her biometrics research which evaluates producer decisions. Recently, Haylee was announced as the co-author of a recent publication in the Applied Animal Science journal that connects inputs to the results of feeder calf sales. Aside from her research, Haylee enjoys sharing her love for the University of Tennessee and the agriculture industry by serving as Vice President of the Block and Bridle Club, actively participating in Student Alumni Associates, and competing at the National Agri-Marketing Association contest with her peers.
	Amelya Fox Amelya Fox is a rising junior in biomedical engineering (BME) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She is passionate about the intersection of service and scholarship, and in pursuing this passion she is heavily involved on campus and in the community. She serves as a volunteer program coordinator for Girls Inc. of Tennessee Valley, secretary for UTK’s chapter of Biomedical Engineering Society, an upperclassman mentor for the Society of Women of Engineers, and an editor of Pursuit Undergraduate Research Journal. She values her coursework, and her academic success has allowed her induction into Tau Beta Pi, the world’s longest-standing engineering honor society. These organizations allow her to develop professionally, practice leadership, and network within the engineering industry. She plans on pursuing a PhD in biomedical engineering following graduation, which she is preparing for by participating in undergraduate research on biomedical imaging and cardiovascular health under Dr. Colleen Crouch. Her graduate and career research interests lie within the realm of reproductive health technology.
	Cassie Griffin Throughout her time here at UTK, Cassie has worked with incredible organizations. When she arrived at UTK, she immediately knew she wanted to be involved with the Society of Human Resource Management. This club has helped her grow professionally and allowed her to be more connected to her major and the people in it. At UTK, she explored her passions for music and travel. Cassie has been working at the WUTK radio station and is putting on a battle of the bands with her music business classmates. UTK has incredible opportunities for studying abroad. So far, she has traveled to Ireland, Germany, and Chile with the University studying leadership, German, and international business. She has been extremely happy with how her time has gone at UTK thus far, and is excited to see what comes next with her time here.
	Tim Held Tim hails from Cleveland, TN, and is a third generation legacy student at the University of Tennessee. However, he has formulated a unique path and experience in his time on Rocky Top. Tim recently completed his Sophomore year in the Haslam College of Business where he studies Business Analytics and Supply Chain Management. Tim strived to be involved on campus his freshman year, and today serves as Vice President of Membership for Student Alumni Associates, on advisory councils for the college of business and the office of the provost, and is a member of multiple major-oriented clubs. Tim hopes to stay in East Tennessee and work to cultivate economic growth in the best way he knows how, through data.
	Allison Hunnicutt Allison is a junior at the University of Tennessee Knoxville studying sustainability with a minor in nutrition, and plans to attend pharmacy school after graduation. She hopes to combine her interests of sustainability and reducing food waste with nutrition and holistic medicine in her pharmacy career. She enjoys being involved on campus, especially with Alpha Omega Epsilon which is a STEM sorority where she has found a community of positive and motivating women. She also enjoyed helping with the Food4Vols program where volunteers make meals with leftover campus food to give away for free. Off-campus, she will begin working as a pharmacy technician to gain experience in her selected career field, and experience what her job could be like in the future.
	Abigail Lee Abigail Lee from Knoxville, TN is a Chemical Engineering major at the University of Tennessee in the 2025 Cohort of the Heath Integrated Business and Engineering Program and the 2021 cohort of the Haslam Leadership Scholars. She currently serves as a Tickle College of Engineering Ambassador, the recruitment strategist for the Women in Engineering Program, and an undergraduate researcher studying battery technology. She is an optimistic and success-oriented pragmatist that excels in competitive, structured, and high-pressure environments. She utilizes precision, routine, and detail to maintain progress and drive productivity in my day-to-day life. Her areas of personal emphasis include self-imposed discipline, forward looking growth that can be measured over a long period of time, and the interplay between aesthetic appearance and quality substance. She hopes to leave a legacy as someone who is constantly encouraging spirits of joyous gratitude, consistency, and personal duty in others.
	Ella Miller Ella Miller is a junior at UT studying Global Studies and Psychology with a minor in Hispanic Studies.She cares deeply about thinking globally while interacting with the local community, and she plans to continue pursuing education in the realm of psychology. She has participated in undergraduate social psychology research and is involved in various organizations that align with her passions on campus including Leading Women of Tomorrow and Student Alumni Associates.
	Tyler Myers Tyler is pursuing a double major in microbiology and neuroscience with minors in chemistry and public health. During his time at UTK, he has worked as a research assistant in the lab of Dr. Heidi Goodrich-Blair in the Department of Microbiology where he studies how gut microbial activity influences host animal development and behavior in nematodes. For this research, he has been awarded the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and has presented his research at Posters at the Capitol, the National Conference for Undergraduate Research, and the American Society of Microbiology. In the future, he hopes to pursue an MD-PhD in the field of translational neuroscience and work with patients as a physician-scientist by studying the gut microbiome and its impacts on mental health and neurological development. Outside of school, he works at a local clinic for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia as well as volunteering at community gardens in Knoxville. In his spare time, Tyler enjoys whitewater kayaking, backpacking, rock climbing, cooking, and reading.
	Obinze Nwokochah Obinze is a third year nursing student with a minor in business administration at The University of Tennessee Knoxville and has loved every second being at this school. He is a Haslam Leadership Scholar, an undergraduate teaching assistant, a member of his campus’s student alumni association, Vice President of the Brothers United for Excellence organization, African Student Association public relations/social media representative, a UT Success Academy Peer Mentor, an NEAT (Nutrition, Education, Activity, and Training) Educator for Knox County elementary schools, and a Peyton Manning Scholar. He is passionate and has an interest in increasing access to healthcare for all people by constructing hospitals in medical/health care deserts, beginning with Nigeria. He is Nigerian and wants to give back to the country that has influenced and shaped his identity. He has future plans to get his doctorate of nursing and change the world forever.
	Natalie Smith Natalie is a third-year student at the University of Tennessee studying Microbiology and Public Health on the pre-med track. She is very involved both on campus and in the Knoxville community, and the interactions she has had with members of her community as a result of this involvement have led her to develop a strong interest in the intersections between the fields of public health and medicine, and she is very interested in working in a community health setting. Her research interests broadly include host-microbe interactions, infectious diseases, and maternal-fetal health. Her ultimate goal is to work in the field of women’s health as both a physician and a scientist. Her campus involvement includes Honors Ambassadors, Phi Delta Epsilon Medical Fraternity, and Pursuit Journal of Undergraduate Research. In her free time, Natalie enjoys serving as a volunteer medical assistant at the Kim Health Center, hiking, and trying every coffee shop in Knoxville!
	Olivia Upchurch After becoming a vol in the fall of 2021, Olivia got involved in the freshman leadership council of the student government association. Additionally, she began volunteering at an after-school program for children in East Knoxville. Her sophomore year, she got involved in a research lab studying ADHD and childhood trauma. She was able to participate in Eureca, an undergraduate research presentation. Furthermore, she hopes to study abroad in Spain the spring of her junior year. She also looks forward to beginning a mentorship relationship with an elementary child this semester through Recess Vols.
	Maddie Williams Maddie Williams is a junior at the University of Tennessee double majoring in Psychology and Public Relations. During her time at UT, she became involved in research with Dr. Jeff Larsen’s Affect and Emotion Lab, worked with social media for University Honors, and took photos for The Daily Beacon. She is also a Public Relations intern for the College of Social Work. Outside of school, she works as a Wedding Coordinator Assistant for Joybird Planning Group. In the future, she hopes to work in talent acquisition or a similar public relations field.

Sophomores - Second Years

Sophomores – Second Years

	Moorea Artaza Moorea Artaza is a Haslam Scholar and Nursing student at the University of Tennessee. Throughout her time at the University, Moorea has been involved in the Student Government Association humbly serving as the Programming Chair and she is looking forward to serving her Volunteer community as the Nursing Senator and Deputy Chief of staff. In addition to Student Government, Moorea works at Cruze Farms on Gay Street and exhibits their Motto of “Work Hard, Love Harder” through the joy of serving her customers. When Moorea is not in the classroom, she enjoys baking, going on long hikes, reading, spending time with her family and friends, and going to her small group at the Walk. Moorea has a passion and love for learning and is eager to help others.
	Alice Grace Beavers Alice Grace Beavers, of Athens, TN is a sophomore studying Food science on the PreProfessional track. She is heavily involved through her major in classes and through research in the Herbert College of Agriculture. Sometimes you can find Alice Grace volunteering at UT medical center helping patients, nurses, and Doctors with various tasks. If not there, Alice Grace most likely is downtown working for Cruze farms. In her free time, Alice Grace loves to read, play music, hang out with her volunteer family, and help the Student Alumni Association with so many wonderful Big Orange Events.
	Keegan Collins Keegan is a second-year Haslam Scholar and Smith Global Leadership Scholar pursuing a double major in Finance and Management with a concentration in International Business and a minor in Studio Art. He is involved with the Honors Student Advisory Council for the Haslam College of Business, where he is the Vice President of Engagement. He is also a member of Student Alumni Associates and a Volunteer Student Leader at Christian Student Fellowship. Over the summer, he interned in the finance department for Worthington Industries near Columbus, Ohio. He enjoyed gaining his first experience in the finance field and a better understanding of his future career aspirations.
	Caleb DeLong Caleb is a sophomore at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville majoring in Music Performance with a concentration in Brass. In the fall, he was a member of the Pride of the Southland Marching Band, along with Student Alumni Associates. He is active in the UT Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, and Honors Horn Octet, always looking for more opportunities to learn and perform. He gained experience teaching some area high school bands, and looks forward to teaching more in the future. As a performance major, he is always seeking out new, different environments to perform in, including brass ensembles, woodwind ensembles, and even pit orchestras for musicals. Research is always on the mind as well, with many topics spreading from the impact of a quality music education to the effect of chamber music on the brain.
	Addie Heehs During her time at the University of Tennessee, Addie has been studying Finance with a collateral in International Business as a Smith Global Leadership Scholar and plans to minor in Public Policy Analytics. She has found various ways to get involved on campus. One of the most impactful organizations has been the Student Alumni Associates, which aims to serve current students and alumni by facilitating events that bolster connection and involvement with UT. In addition to this, she is an Ambassador for the Haslam College of Business, member of the Tennessee Capital Markets Society, and involved in Student Government Association.
	Frank Moser Frank Moser is a first year at UT and is majoring in Industrial Engineering. He is part of the Haslam Scholars Program, Heath Integrated Business and Engineering Program, as well as the Cook Grand Challenge Engineering Honors Program. He is involved in undergraduate research and recently completed an independent study about microplastics in fish. Frank is also on the Undergraduate Student Senate, representing the Tickle College of Engineering. He hopes to pursue a career as an industrial engineer, likely in the field of transportation or infrastructure.
	Lisa Patel Lisa Patel is a biomedical engineering major who hopes to have a concentration in brain computer interface. She hopes to pursue research on the topic and develop her understanding of its connection to music. In her time at UT, she has become a member of various organizations such as SAA, SWE, and Peer Mentors. She is excited to see what her future leads to here at UT!
	Gabrielle “Gabby” Pence Gabby is a sophomore at UTK studying Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology as well as Philosophy of Science and Medicine. She is involved in undergraduate research studying microglia and neurotoxicity with the Prosser lab of the BCMB department. She is also an intern at Genesis Neuroscience Clinic where she performs neurocognitive testing on patients and handles office tasks. She works as an ambassador for the College of Arts and Sciences. She is involved in the musical arts through UT Singers, UT’s oldest acapella group. Additionally, she plays guitar and classical piano. She gets to use these skills to serve her campus ministry, CSF, by frequently leading worship on Sunday nights. She hopes to attend medical school in the future and work as a pediatrician or OB/GYN.
	Tyler Porter Tyler is a Business Analytics Major with a concentration in International Business from Bowling Green, Kentucky. He is a Smith Global Leadership Scholar and is involved within the Haslam College of Business, including the Haslam Student Advisory Board and Project Inspire, a podcast hosted by UT students that interviews successful alumni and friends of the university. Around campus, he is a member of the Student Alumni Associates and Student Government Association. He also works at the SEC Network here on Rocky Top to broadcast many different sporting events across ESPN’s networks.
	Elijah Smith Elijah Smith is a sophomore at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He is currently in the university exploratory major track but will be transferring into the Tickle College of Engineering within the next year. He plans on majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a Pre-Health minor. His current academic goals are to reach a place where he can decide between attending Med School or pursuing strictly Engineering. His goal either way is to do something in the health field. His time here at UTK has been filled with both fun and challenging experiences. He has had the privilege to attend the Student Alumni Associates, Campus Outreach UTK, and intramural and club sports. However, his favorite experiences have been attending the many sporting events here on campus.
	Dylan Stewart Dylan is a Physics major at UT. He can frequently be found working in the Space Bar in the Nielsen Physics Building or collaborating in the lab he works in at SERF. One of his recent projects involved developing small and discrete temperature and humidity sensors to monitor the labs and offices in Nielsen. In his free time, Dylan can be found playing piano at the Natalie Haslam Music Center or finding his inner peace with the Meditation and Mindfulness Club here at UT.
	Kelly Su Kelly Su is a first-year Haslam Scholar at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, double majoring in Economics and Global Studies with a concentration in Global Politics and the Economy. She is particularly interested in the influence of the global economy on environmental initiatives and public policy. She hopes to become a force in the global fight against climate change during her time on the University of Tennessee’s campus and continues to be an active member and leader in environmental groups on campus, including the Compost Coalition. She enjoys merging her interests in nature and the environment with her love for running and just recently completed her first half marathon in April 2023. She hopes to travel to Copenhagen sometime in the next two years, where she hopes to learn about the city’s success in promoting environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
	Satchel Vaughn Satchel is from Nolensville, Tennessee majoring in Supply Chain Management with a concentration in International Business and a minor in Hispanic Studies. She is actively involved in the Haslam College of Business as a Smith Global Leadership Scholar, a member of the Haslam Student Advisory Council, a member of Women of Haslam, and a peer mentor. She has also been active in volunteering on and off campus. She is interested in logistics, cross-cultural business, and enhancing her foreign language proficiency and is eager to develop these skills throughout her time as an undergraduate.
	Jahneulie Weste Jahneulie is a Knoxville native pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science with a minor in user experience design. She is a first-generation college student and a first-generation American. She plans to be the CEO and founder of her own IT company specializing in application development on the for-profit side and education on the non-profit side. She participated in two undergraduate research positions at UT and numerous student organizations. In addition, she completed two internships, one with The Restoration House of East Tennessee as a Social Media and Data Entry Intern and another with CGI Federal as a STEM@CGI Bridge Intern. She returned to CGI Federal as an intern for the summer of 2023. She is interested in positions related to software development, entrepreneurship, education, business operations, and any fields where those intersect.

Freshman - First Year

Freshman – First Years

	Eliza Abston Eliza plans to major in management. She is the co-founder and president of an entrepreneurship club, which connects students to local business professionals. She is the president of DECA and has represented Tennessee as an international finalist in Personal Financial Literacy. Other leadership experiences include serving as president of the Model UN Security Council, senate speaker pro-tempore at Youth in Government, and student body historian on student council. She has completed over 190 hours of community service, including volunteering as a kindergarten teacher at church and supporting local nonprofits. In her spare time, she enjoys playing piano, writing stories, and producing beach-themed stickers and shirts for her Etsy store.
	Emily Adams Emily plans to double major in environmental studies and journalism to pursue a career as an environmental lawyer and advocate. As an IB Diploma candidate and active member of her school’s community, she has started her school’s Mock Trial Club, served as a member on the Environmental Club council, organized local volunteering opportunities with the school’s Key Club, and represented student interests on the Student Advisory Council for the district school board. She enjoys volunteering with environmental nonprofits, such as Keep Knoxville Beautiful and Beardsley Community Farm, and aspires to lobby for policies that encourage conservation and sustainability. During her free time, she loves spending time outdoors with her family, reading books, and baking vegan desserts.
	Joshua Adedokun Joshua intends to major in psychology and pursue a career in psychiatry. He was the clarinet section leader of the Dobyns-Bennett High School Marching Band and has earned placement in both All-State Band and Orchestra during his high school career. Volunteering and playing a role in his community is very important to him so he participates in his school’s Beta Club events to make a difference. This value is exactly what drives him to seek a career where he can help treat the mental health of patients, a vital part of well-being that is often looked over.
	Coleman Bain Coleman plans to major in mechanical engineering and pursue a career in sustainable energy. He served as the captain of his high school tennis team and was the 2021 Elk Valley Times Tennis Player of the Year and 2021 Doubles Tennis Region Champion. He was the president of both the First National Bank Youth Advisory Board and the Leadership Lincoln Youth Board, as well as the captain of his high school Scholar’s Bowl team. Coleman’s passion for guiding younger students has led him to weekly mentor 8th-grade boys in Men of Virtue, teach the gospel to elementary school students in Good News Club, tutor algebra 2 and pre-calculus students, and give tennis lessons to younger players. In his free time, he enjoys playing the violin, sculpting, snowboarding, and reading.
	Sam Barbour Sam plans to major in mechanical engineering and pursue a career in automotive technology. He discovered his interest in automotive engineering when conducting a vehicle maintenance study in his AP Capstone course. He enjoys the game of golf and has participated in The First Tee, a non-profit volunteer organization for over 10 years. Through this organization, he has helped young golfers learn important life skills on and off the golf course. He is organizing a collaboration of his high school’s Beta Club, The First Tee, and Kingsport’s local YMCA to provide this opportunity to elementary school students. Alongside his four varsity seasons in high school golf, he has also completed four years of varsity tennis. He is active in his high school’s National Honors Society, Beta Club, and STEM tutoring club. In his spare time, he enjoys photography, automotive racing, and spending time with his friends.
	Scotty Brown Scotty plans to major in Economics and Political Science and study Italian. He attended the McCallie School in Chattanooga where he was a coaching intern with the Public Speaking Program and Photography Editor for the school yearbook. He is a member of the McCallie School Chapter of the National Honor Society and the McCallie senior leadership and service organization. He is a National Merit Commended Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction. Outside of school, he is Director of Operations for the Cultural Value Leadership Institute, a nonprofit which he co-founded to provide educational scholarships and resources. He is also a summer camp counselor at Bridge Scholars of Chattanooga. He is motivated to advocate for educational resources for students in traditionally underserved communities throughout Tennessee and the United States. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, reading, hiking, photography, youth group, and chatting about the latest developments in politics.
	Emma Collard Emma intends to major in Geographic Information Science and minor in Meteorology. Passionate about weather from age seven, she hopes to pursue a fulfilling career as an aviation meteorologist. As a senior, she serves as Student Council and National Honor Society president. She serves as a member of the Bedford County Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, Leadership Bedford, and the Tennessee Department of Education’s Student Engagement Council. She advocated for the student voice and worked to improve her school and community. She is an active leader and strengthened her leadership abilities as a Girl’s State delegate and ambassador to the Hugh O’Brian World Leadership Congress. In her free time, she loves volunteering at food drives, recording new episodes for her weather podcast, practicing for swim meets, and playing her piano. At her core, Emily has a deep love for God and for people; this love runs into every aspect of her life, and it defines everything she is.
	Kate Faulkner Kate plans to double major in nutrition dietetics and business management to one day open a nutrition practice focusing on chronic diseases, childhood obesity, and eating disorders. She recently completed her senior capstone project that included job shadowing different nutrition careers in the area. She has been a member of the National Honors Society and President of the International Club at her school. She played competitive golf for eight years, playing at a two handicap, until going through a career ending illness her sophomore year. As a result of that experience, Kate developed a passion for nutrition as well as mentoring younger girl golfers. She also led a middle school Bible Study for eighth grade girls and is currently a Teen Advisor for the freshman class at her school. In her spare time, she loves cross-training, reading, traveling, and playing with her black lab Bear.
	Ava Foley Ava plans to major in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations. She is a dedicated member of her high school’s band program and student council as senior class co-president. She was elected Secretary-General at Model UN and Speaker of the House at Youth in Government. At Volunteer Girls State, she was selected as one of two senators to Girls Nation in Washington, DC, where she was elected Vice President. She volunteered on several local political campaigns and grassroots organizing efforts. She co-founded a youth advocacy organization that successfully lobbied for a county-wide mask mandate during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. She also organizes Her Drive, a drive for menstrual hygiene products that has collected over 22,000 products for women in need across Nashville. 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.
	Ellie Housley Greenback, Tennessee, plans to major in Business Management with a concentration in International Business. She was co-captain of her school’s varsity cheerleading team. She was also involved in various clubs and honor societies such as Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. Additionally, she served as president of her school’s HOSA club, overseeing various community service projects and leading the team to regional, state, and international leadership conferences. She has been recognized academically and athletically as an AP Scholar and UCA All-American Cheerleader, respectively. She is also active in her community through volunteering at her church. In her free time she enjoys playing with her cats, listening to Taylor Swift and Broadway musicals, working crossword puzzles, and crocheting.
	Andrew Reynolds-Bailey Andrew plans to major in Aerospace Engineering. He is the president and senior member of his school’s TJCL Chapter, and his goal is to restore the engagement in classics programs that was lost in the wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic. He is vice president of his school’s chess club, acts as a volunteer and mentor for the chess clubs of local elementary and middle schools, and is a member of the National Honor Society. He has been recognized with several awards for is academic and extracurricular achievements, including the Point of Pride for his contributions to developing district elementary and middle school-level robotics programs. Andrew is currently employed as a Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor, striving to teach basic swimming skills and increase water safety within his community. Whenever possible, he enjoys spending his free time in and around Tennessee’s beautiful natural waterways
	Sam Strong Sam intends to double major in Architecture and Political Science. He aspires to become a practicing architect, aiming to manage and reduce the negative impacts of gentrification on impoverished areas. Samuel serves as student government vice president, Key Club vice president, New Hope Club secretary, and school ambassador. He helped reestablish the Knowledge Bowl Club and the Quiz Team at his high school as the club’s president and team captain. Samuel served as a leader on his high school’s varsity soccer and tennis teams and was in seven theater shows. He manages his photography business and leads church youth groups. He volunteers as a tutor through Las Americas, a local after-school program that exposed him to the disparities of neighboring communities. While a student at UTK, Sam hopes to participate in the Design/Build program offered by the College of Architecture and Design, where he can use the initiative to benefit the Knoxville community.
	Ariel Thompson Ariel plans to major in Computer Science with a Data Science minor. Through a career in software engineering in the entertainment industry, she will continuously work to diversify the STEM industry for black and brown technology producers. As president, she led the National Society of Black Engineers Jr. Memphis chapter and the Technology Student Association Middle College chapter in competitions. She placed 1st in the TSA state competition 3 years in a row for Promotional Design. She is treasurer and secretary of her senior class, a member of Academic Achievement committee, and on bowling and tennis teams. She received the College Board National African American Recognition Award and regional Young Masters Writers Program short story top prize. With CodeCrew, she built AR/VR for St. Jude Hospital and was in the Global Sports Tech Youth program with students from Tel Aviv. Through the Indie Memphis Crew-Up program, she is working to write, direct and produce a short film for the Indie Memphis Youth Film Festival.
	Jack Umsted Jack plans to major in Supply Chain Management with a focus on Leadership and International Business. Jack’s passion for business started with the development of his home service business, JZ Services, and further solidified by his selection in 2022 to a Communications and Digital Marketing Internship with the Germantown Municipal School District. Jack partnered with local businesses to launch Youth Leadership Germantown, a program designed to help high school students explore different careers. Jack donates 20% of JZ Services’ profits, over $3000 to date, to St. Jude. He volunteers with Germantown Animal Shelter, Hope Student Ministries and St. Jude. At Houston High School, Jack served as president of Spanish Club and a member of Honors Academy, Beta Club and National Spanish Honors Society, while participating on Cross Country, Track and Golf teams. Jack is excited about the opportunities that the Haslam Scholars Program offers to expand his leadership capabilities further enabling him to drive positive change in his community.
	Ellie Walker Ellie plans to major in economics and pursue a career in the nonprofit sector. Ellie began exploring her passion for service by volunteering with Matthew 25, a transitional housing organization for people experiencing homelessness. As president of her school’s service club, she has had the pleasure of working alongside Metro Nashville Public Schools’ Homeless Education Resource Office. Her successful fundraising campaigns for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and Multiple Sclerosis Society piqued her interest in nonprofits’ financial operations and managerial economics. She also helped start a free tutoring program to supplement online learning during the pandemic. Beyond her commitment to community service, she enjoys serving as president of her school’s Fellowship Christian Athlete organization and captain of the varsity soccer and lacrosse teams. In her free time, Ellie enjoys the outdoors with her friends and dogs.

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