Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications student prepares to champion agriculture through policy, advocacy and strategic communication at Herbert
Where are you from, and why did you decide to attend the Herbert College of Agriculture at the University of Tennessee?
I am from Lebanon, Tennessee, in Wilson County. I decided to attend the Herbert College of Agriculture at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, after hearing about the unique programs the college had in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications. While serving as a regional FFA officer, I met University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture’s Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President Keith Carver at an event. There, he told me about the opportunities in the department and how the courses would build my leadership skills and provide opportunities in advocacy through agriculture policy and communication.
After that interaction, I was sold on and eager to attend the University of Tennessee and pursue a degree through the Herbert College of Agriculture. The college provides opportunities for students to engage in their communities and interact with professionals in their desired career pathways. Herbert has a rich community that makes the campus feel like home. The staff and professors at Herbert have a strong commitment to educate and mentor students, which allows them to grow as young professionals and thrive.
What inspired you to study Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, and what do you enjoy most about your major?
I chose to study Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications because I want to build a career in agricultural policy and advocacy. My goal is to work in government and lobbying, helping develop policies that protect and strengthen the agriculture industry while giving farmers and ranchers a strong voice in the legislative process.
What I enjoy most about the program is that it prepares me with the communication and leadership skills needed to make a difference in public policy. The program has taught me how to effectively communicate complex agricultural issues to a wide range of audiences, which is essential when working with legislators, stakeholders, and the public. It has also strengthened my leadership abilities and shown me how collaboration, education, and advocacy all play an important role in developing sound agricultural policy and law. I know these skills will be invaluable as I pursue a career shaping policies that support the future of American agriculture.
Have there been any specific classes, internship experiences, or professors at Herbert that have had a significant impact on your academic journey?
Several professors at Herbert have had a significant impact on my academic journey, particularly Dr. Molly West, Mrs. Victoria Beasley, and Dr. Jamie Greig. Each of them has challenged me to grow both personally and professionally while consistently serving as mentors throughout my time in their classes. Their encouragement and guidance have strengthened my communication and critical thinking skills.
Through the Herbert Scholars Program, I have also had the opportunity to gain valuable internship experience that has allowed me to apply what I have learned in the classroom to real-world situations. Every class has introduced me to new perspectives and skills that have prepared me for my future career. One of the most meaningful experiences has been working with Dr. Greig, who encouraged me to become involved in agriculture research. That opportunity has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to strengthen my analytical abilities and develop skills that will be valuable as I pursue a career in public policy and advocacy. Together, these faculty members and experiences have played a major role in shaping both my academic journey and my professional goals.
You serve as a main campus ambassador, giving tours to prospective students. What do you enjoy most about representing the University of Tennessee in that role?
My role as a University of Tennessee Ambassador is an incredible experience to showcase the University to prospective students in a special way. I always look forward to giving tours because I can share what the University has done for me as a student and talk about everything from school spirit, academics, and athletics. As an Ambassador, I have had the opportunity to meet many individuals from all across the country and world. I have also had the chance to work special programs and events on and off campus that highlight what it truly means to be a Volunteer. I enjoy meeting new people in this role and sharing a place that is dear to my heart.
What student organizations are you involved in, and how have they impacted your college experience?
On campus, I am involved in multiple student organizations that help refine my skills and provide a strong sense of community. I am a Main Campus Ambassador for the University of Tennessee, a member of the Herbert Dean’s Undergraduate Student Advisory Council, and am involved in the Collegiate Farm Bureau, 4-H, and FFA and the University of Tennessee Agricultural Communicators.
These have each played a unique role in my college experience through leadership development and developing a strong agriculture-centered community. Being a part of these organizations allows me to be involved on campus, interact with like-minded peers, and make an impact on my community.
How has being part of the Herbert community impacted your personal and professional development?
Herbert is a unique college because of the rich community it fosters. Students and professors share a passion to educate, inform, and protect the agriculture industry. This like-mindedness draws everyone closer together and makes the college feel more like home. Being part of the Herbert community has impacted both my personal and professional development in numerous ways. I have made strong friendships with my peers from all over the country, have had access to many professional development events, and feel confident in receiving help whenever I may need it.
What have been some of the most memorable experiences you’ve had outside the classroom?
During my time at the University of Tennessee, some of my most memorable experiences outside of the classroom have been spending time with my friends and classmates. Cheering on the Vols in Neyland Stadium, attending sporting events, going to concerts hosted on campus, and exploring the Knoxville area are a few things that have made some of my favorite memories. I have also had the opportunity to attend many events on campus that are hosted by the Herbert College of Agriculture and the Baker School of Public Policy that have allowed me to learn more about different career paths and aspects of agriculture and policy. There are a lot of things to do on campus that make being a student at UT Knoxville a fruitful experience.
As president of the Collegiate Farm Bureau, 4-H and FFA club, what have you learned about leadership and advocacy in agriculture?
Serving as president of the Collegiate Farm Bureau, 4-H, and FFA Club has taught me that leadership is about bringing people together around a shared purpose. One of the most rewarding parts of these roles has been working alongside other agricultural leaders and connecting students who are passionate about the future of agriculture. Whether we are planning events, organizing service projects, or advocating for the industry, I have learned that meaningful change happens through collaboration and strong relationships.
These experiences have also strengthened my understanding of agricultural advocacy. I have seen the importance of educating others about the challenges and opportunities facing agriculture and giving students opportunities to become involved in those conversations. Bringing together students from different backgrounds and helping them find ways to engage in agriculture has been incredibly rewarding.
Looking ahead, what are your career goals, and how do you hope to make an impact in the field of agriculture?
My long-term career goal is to work in agricultural policy and advocacy, where I can help shape legislation that supports farmers, ranchers, and the future of American agriculture. I hope to work in government or with an agricultural organization focused on public policy and lobbying, where I can contribute to developing policies that address the challenges facing the industry while ensuring agriculture has a strong voice in the legislative process.
I want to make an impact by helping bridge the gap between agriculture and policymakers. Many of the issues facing agriculture are complex, and I want to be someone who can effectively communicate those challenges and advocate for practical, informed solutions.
Ultimately, I hope my career reflects a commitment to serving the agricultural community and ensuring that the voices of farmers and ranchers are represented in the decisions that shape the future of our industry.
What are some of your hobbies or a fun fact about you that people might be surprised to learn?
I compete in rodeos, in team roping, breakaway roping, and barrel racing. My family also operates a horseback riding lesson program, so horses have always been a big part of my life and have taught me responsibility and discipline. I also enjoy traveling and exploring new places. I love experiencing different communities, meeting new people, and learning about the culture unique to each area I visit. A fun fact that surprises many people is that I have spent years competing in rodeos and have held several rodeo queen titles, advocating for the sport of rodeo and interacting with crowds.
