Outstanding in Their Field

The people who make up the UT Institute of Agriculture are the driving force behind the Real. Life. Solutions. we create and deliver. Learn more about some of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni whose work sets them apart.

Faculty


  • Jonathan Walton

    Distinguished lecturer in UT Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics connects classroom learning with real-world farming experience

  • Liz Eckelkamp

    Dairy Extension Specialist supports producers through research, outreach and innovation

  • Sherry Cox

    Clinical professor at UTCVM leads one of the nation’s top veterinary pharmacology labs, advancing animal care through research and mentorship

Staff


  • Shalena Durkot

    UT Gardens, Crossville, coordinator leads with passion for plants and people

  • Sarah Keenan

    UT Extension Maury County 4-H Youth Development agent guides youth toward lifelong skills and success

  • Cassie Johnson

    Director of Enrollment Services champions access to higher education and meaningful student experiences at Herbert

Students


  • Mason Dunlap

    Animal science senior pursues a lifelong passion for veterinary medicine through hands-on learning and global service experiences

  • Katherine López

    Future veterinarian overcomes adversity to pursue her passion for animal welfare at the UT College of Veterinary Medicine

  • Jacob Friedrich

    Plant sciences graduate student investigates controlled environment solutions to improve global food security

Alumni


  • Rachel Smith

    Food science alumna (BS ‘16) drives product innovation and flavor development at Newly Weds Foods

  • Jason Maxedon

    Forestry alumnus (’00) leads statewide wildlife conservation and management at the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency

  • Luke Bennett

    Plant sciences alumnus (’23) cultivates championship-level turf at Seminole Golf Club