A note from UTIA’s senior leader, including comments about the magazine and reflections on 2023
Two remarkable things happened to me in 2023. And they both involve taking on new roles.
First, and most important to me, my family was blessed with the arrival of our first grandchild, Wilson. No one can truly prepare you for how amazing an event this is. Not only is he adorable, his sweet smile and demeanor have completely captured our hearts. For those of you with grandchildren, you know what I mean. I covet this new role as “Doc” and will do everything in my power to be the best granddad I can be!
The second role I was blessed to take on is that of permanent leader of the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture. I am both humbled and honored with this challenge and am so excited about the opportunities ahead for all of the institute, from our people and programs to our students to the people and communities we serve. As you’ll read in this issue, we are making a significant economic impact in distressed and at-risk counties like Fentress County, where UT Extension is working with local government to provide the foundation needed to support and grow entrepreneurial opportunities and stronger communities.
We’ve also set records in securing funding for agricultural research, seen our enrollment in both the Herbert College of Agriculture and the College of Veterinary Medicine grow
significantly, and we are close to opening our new building to replace and update Hollingsworth this spring. This new space will truly transform our campus.
Many of you have participated in our strategic planning process, which will provide the roadmap for UTIA moving forward. I want you to know that we value your ideas and feedback and appreciate your involvement. We’ll be excited to introduce the plan in 2024.
The future is incredibly bright for UTIA. It’s all thanks to the dedication of the faculty, staff, and friends of this amazing organization. I thank you for the faith in me to take on this role as your leader.
And a special thank you to my daughter Carson and her husband Michael for giving me the gift of the greatest role of all!
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