{"id":2138,"date":"2026-08-17T09:52:51","date_gmt":"2026-08-17T13:52:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/?p=2138"},"modified":"2026-08-17T09:52:59","modified_gmt":"2026-08-17T13:52:59","slug":"skylar-baird","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/skylar-baird\/","title":{"rendered":"Skylar Baird"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><em><em><em><a href=\"https:\/\/alec.tennessee.edu\/\">Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications<\/a> student prepares to champion agriculture through policy, advocacy and strategic communication at Herbert<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong>Where are you from, and why did you decide to attend the <a href=\"https:\/\/herbert.utk.edu\/\">Herbert College of Agriculture<\/a> at the University of Tennessee?<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I am from Lebanon, Tennessee, in Wilson County. I decided to attend the Herbert College of Agriculture at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville,\u00a0after hearing about the unique programs the college had in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications. While\u00a0serving as a regional FFA officer, I met University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture&#8217;s Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President Keith Carver at an event. There, he told me about the\u00a0opportunities in the department\u00a0and how the courses would\u00a0build\u00a0my leadership skills and provide\u00a0opportunities\u00a0in advocacy through\u00a0agriculture\u00a0policy and communication.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After that interaction, I was sold on and eager to attend the University of Tennessee and\u00a0pursue\u00a0a degree through the Herbert College of Agriculture.\u00a0The college provides opportunities for students to engage in their communities\u00a0and\u00a0interact with\u00a0professionals\u00a0in their desired career pathways. Herbert has a rich community that makes the campus feel like home. The staff and professors at\u00a0Herbert have a strong commitment to educate and mentor students, which allows them to grow as young professionals\u00a0and thrive.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>What inspired you to\u00a0study\u00a0Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, and what do you enjoy most about\u00a0your major?\u00a0<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2138_18127c-33 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2138_18127c-33 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2138_18127c-33 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}.kb-row-layout-id2138_18127c-33 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_18127c-33 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_18127c-33 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2138_18127c-33 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_5ca24c-f6\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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\u00a0an important role\u00a0in 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.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_aca94c-62 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_aca94c-62\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"857\" height=\"1024\" src=\"http:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/IMG_7022-scaled-e1785856750997-857x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Skylar Baird stands on a balcony with the U.S. Capitol building visible in the background. She is dressed in formal attire, and the scene includes ornate railing and large columns.\" class=\"wp-image-2145\" srcset=\"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/IMG_7022-scaled-e1785856750997-857x1024.jpeg 857w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/IMG_7022-scaled-e1785856750997-251x300.jpeg 251w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/IMG_7022-scaled-e1785856750997-768x918.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/IMG_7022-scaled-e1785856750997-1285x1536.jpeg 1285w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/IMG_7022-scaled-e1785856750997-1713x2048.jpeg 1713w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/IMG_7022-scaled-e1785856750997.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 857px) 100vw, 857px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>Have there been any specific classes, internship experiences, or professors at Herbert that have had a significant impact on your academic journey?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several professors at Herbert have had a significant impact on my academic journey, particularly <a href=\"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/person\/?id=9608\">Dr. Molly West<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/person\/?id=16145\">Mrs. Victoria Beasley<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/person\/?id=16986\">Dr. Jamie Greig<\/a>. 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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2138_6526c3-89 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2138_6526c3-89 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2138_6526c3-89 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}.kb-row-layout-id2138_6526c3-89 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_6526c3-89 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_6526c3-89 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2138_6526c3-89 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_e4b770-d2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Through the <a href=\"https:\/\/herbert.utk.edu\/herbert-scholars\/\">Herbert Scholars Program<\/a>, 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.&nbsp;One of the most meaningful experiences has been working with Dr. Greig, who encouraged me to become involved in&nbsp;agriculture&nbsp;research. That opportunity has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to strengthen my analytical abilities&nbsp;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&nbsp;a major role&nbsp;in shaping both my academic journey and my professional goals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_9e4cd9-a9\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"940\" src=\"http:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/3D2AFBFC-D3B1-4491-997E-D46841E1DF49-scaled-e1785856954106-1024x940.jpeg\" alt=\"Skylar Baird stands by a presentation poster with a cow's head and the text &quot;got data?&quot;. Logos for entities like UT AgResearch, UT Extension, and Tickle College of Engineering can also be seen on the poster.\" class=\"wp-image-2148\" srcset=\"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/3D2AFBFC-D3B1-4491-997E-D46841E1DF49-scaled-e1785856954106-1024x940.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/3D2AFBFC-D3B1-4491-997E-D46841E1DF49-scaled-e1785856954106-300x275.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/3D2AFBFC-D3B1-4491-997E-D46841E1DF49-scaled-e1785856954106-768x705.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/3D2AFBFC-D3B1-4491-997E-D46841E1DF49-scaled-e1785856954106-1536x1410.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/3D2AFBFC-D3B1-4491-997E-D46841E1DF49-scaled-e1785856954106-2048x1880.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>You serve as a main campus ambassador, giving tours to prospective students. What do you enjoy most about&nbsp;representing&nbsp;the&nbsp;University of&nbsp;Tennessee&nbsp;in that role?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My role as a University of Tennessee Ambassador is an incredible experience to&nbsp;showcase&nbsp;the University to prospective students in&nbsp;a special way. I always look forward to giving tours&nbsp;because I&nbsp;can&nbsp;share what the&nbsp;University&nbsp;has done for&nbsp;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&nbsp;from all across&nbsp;the country and&nbsp;world. I have also had the chance to&nbsp;work&nbsp;special programs and events&nbsp;on&nbsp;and&nbsp;off campus&nbsp;that highlight what it truly means to be a Volunteer. I enjoy meeting new&nbsp;people&nbsp;in this role and sharing a place that is dear to my heart.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>What student organizations are you involved in, and how have they&nbsp;impacted&nbsp;your college experience?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2138_e6bca2-41 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2138_e6bca2-41 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2138_e6bca2-41 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}.kb-row-layout-id2138_e6bca2-41 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_e6bca2-41 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_e6bca2-41 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2138_e6bca2-41 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2138_502362-84 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_502362-84 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_502362-84 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_502362-84 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_502362-84 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_502362-84 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_502362-84{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_502362-84 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_502362-84 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_502362-84\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On campus, I am involved in multiple student organizations that help refine my skills and provide\u00a0a strong sense\u00a0of community.\u00a0I am a Main Campus Ambassador for the University of Tennessee,\u00a0a member of the Herbert Dean\u2019s Undergraduate Student Advisory Council, and\u00a0am involved in\u00a0the Collegiate\u00a0Farm\u00a0Bureau, 4-H, and FFA and\u00a0the University\u00a0of Tennessee Agricultural Communicators.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These have each played a unique role in my college experience through leadership development and&nbsp;developing a strong agriculture-centered community. Being a&nbsp;part of these organizations allows me to be involved on campus, interact with like-minded peers, and make an impact&nbsp;on&nbsp;my community.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_f949f5-a4\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"948\" height=\"1024\" src=\"http:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/UTK-Ambassadors-140-e1786474066768-948x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Three individuals wearing orange shirts and light-colored shorts pose playfully in front of an arched entrance with decorative stonework. Two stand behind with their hands under their chins, while one kneels in front on a brick pathway.\" class=\"wp-image-2167\" srcset=\"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/UTK-Ambassadors-140-e1786474066768-948x1024.jpg 948w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/UTK-Ambassadors-140-e1786474066768-278x300.jpg 278w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/UTK-Ambassadors-140-e1786474066768-768x830.jpg 768w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/UTK-Ambassadors-140-e1786474066768.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 948px) 100vw, 948px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>How has being part of the Herbert community impacted your personal and professional development?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Herbert is a unique college&nbsp;because&nbsp;of the rich community&nbsp;it fosters. Students and professors share a passion to educate, inform, and protect the agriculture industry.&nbsp;This like-mindedness&nbsp;draws everyone closer together and makes the college feel more like home. Being part of the Herbert community has&nbsp;impacted&nbsp;both my personal and professional development in&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;ways. I have made strong&nbsp;friendships&nbsp;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.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>What have been some of the most memorable&nbsp;experiences&nbsp;you\u2019ve had outside the classroom?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During my time at the University of Tennessee, some of my most memorable experiences outside of the classroom have been spending time with\u00a0my 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\u00a0memories.\u00a0I have also had the opportunity to attend many events on campus that are hosted by the Herbert College of Agriculture and the <a href=\"https:\/\/baker.utk.edu\/\">Baker School of Public Policy<\/a>\u00a0that have allowed me to learn more about different career paths and aspects of agriculture and policy. There are a lot of things to\u00a0do on campus that make being a student at UT Knoxville\u00a0a fruitful\u00a0experience.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>As president of the Collegiate Farm Bureau, 4-H and FFA club, what have you learned about leadership and advocacy in agriculture?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2138_59e9b6-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2138_59e9b6-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2138_59e9b6-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}.kb-row-layout-id2138_59e9b6-1c > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_59e9b6-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_59e9b6-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2138_59e9b6-1c alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_14ce16-4b\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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&nbsp;different backgrounds&nbsp;and helping them find ways to engage in agriculture has been incredibly rewarding.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_2b31ae-94\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"870\" height=\"1024\" src=\"http:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2U7A3136-scaled-e1785953118333-870x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"A group of seven people standing on steps outside the Agriculture and Natural Resources Building. They are all wearing matching gray tops with Farm Bureau, 4-H, and FFA logos\" class=\"wp-image-2140\" srcset=\"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2U7A3136-scaled-e1785953118333-870x1024.jpeg 870w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2U7A3136-scaled-e1785953118333-255x300.jpeg 255w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2U7A3136-scaled-e1785953118333-768x904.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2U7A3136-scaled-e1785953118333-1305x1536.jpeg 1305w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2U7A3136-scaled-e1785953118333.jpeg 1706w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 870px) 100vw, 870px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>Looking ahead, what are your career goals, and how do you hope to make an impact&nbsp;in&nbsp;the field of agriculture?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2138_b73cd3-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2138_b73cd3-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2138_b73cd3-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}.kb-row-layout-id2138_b73cd3-f4 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_b73cd3-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2138_b73cd3-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2138_b73cd3-f4 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_9cf783-51 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_9cf783-51\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I want to make an impact by helping bridge the gap between agriculture and policymakers.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ultimately, I&nbsp;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.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2138_30b4b6-9c\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"809\" height=\"1024\" src=\"http:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2026-06-17_Original-e1786474381450-809x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Skylar Baird standing outdoors in front of the United States Capitol building.\" class=\"wp-image-2144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2026-06-17_Original-e1786474381450-809x1024.jpeg 809w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2026-06-17_Original-e1786474381450-237x300.jpeg 237w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2026-06-17_Original-e1786474381450-768x972.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/264\/2026\/08\/2026-06-17_Original-e1786474381450.jpeg 1085w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 809px) 100vw, 809px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"utia-accentbar\"><hr style=\"background-color:#ff8300\" align=\"left\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong><strong>What are some of your hobbies or a fun fact about you that people might be surprised to learn?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I compete in rodeos, in team roping, breakaway roping, and barrel racing.&nbsp;My family also&nbsp;operates&nbsp;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&nbsp;new places. I love experiencing different communities, meeting new people, and learning about the culture unique to each area I visit.&nbsp; A fun fact that surprises many people is that I have spent years competing in rodeos&nbsp;and have held several rodeo queen titles, advocating for the sport of rodeo and interacting with crowds.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications student prepares to champion agriculture through policy, advocacy and strategic communication at Herbert<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1242,"featured_media":2139,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_searchwp_excluded":"","wds_primary_category":13,"footnotes":""},"categories":[24,36,13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2138","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-agricultural-leadership-education-and-communications","category-herbert-college-of-agriculture","category-student"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2138","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1242"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2138"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2138\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2139"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2138"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2138"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utia.tennessee.edu\/spotlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2138"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}