ALEC at the University of Tennessee

08/31/2026

Congratulations to ALEC student Skylar Baird, who was recognized with UTIA’s Outstanding in Their Field award. Skylar is preparing for a career in agricultural policy and advocacy, using the leadership, communication, and research skills she’s developed at UT to help give agriculture a strong voice.

Learn more about Skylar, her experiences in ALEC, and her goals for the future in her UTIA student spotlight.

Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications student prepares to champion agriculture through policy, advocacy and strategic communication at Herbert

08/14/2026

ALEC faculty were recognized at the 2026 University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture Awards luncheon for their contributions to the Institute and Tennessee communities.

Dr. Carrie Stephens received the J. E. Moss Achievement Award, which recognizes excellent achievement in teaching, research, and Extension. Dr. Stephens received this award for her documented success in teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students.

Dr. Shelli Danjean Rampold received the William T Miles M.D. Memorial Award for Community Service, which recognizes significant contributions and service to the Knoxville community. Dr. Rampold received this award with the UTIA Flood Recovery Team for her work in Helene-impacted communities.

08/13/2026

Congratulations to Dr. Jamie Greig on his promotion to the rank of Associate Professor with tenure in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications!

Dr. Greig contributes to ALEC through his research on digital information technology in rural and agricultural settings, teaching in agricultural communications, and support of students and student organizations. His commitment to research and teaching has made a meaningful impact on our department. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Greig on this achievement!

08/12/2026

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Shelli Danjean Rampold on her promotion to the rank of Associate Professor with tenure in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications!

Dr. Rampold is a valued member of the ALEC department, contributing through her Extension programming, teaching, research, and service. Her work in crisis communication has supported communities across Tennessee while creating meaningful learning opportunities for ALEC students. We appreciate Dr. Rampold’s dedication to our students, department, and the communities we serve. Congratulations, Dr. Rampold!

08/11/2026

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Molly West on her promotion to Teaching Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications!

Dr. West is a crucial member of the department. She contributes to ALEC through her work in teaching and learning, undergraduate mentorship, and involvement in research. We appreciate her dedication to our students, department, and the Herbert College of Agriculture. Congratulations, Dr. West!

08/04/2026

Our ALEC team continues to grow! Please join us in welcoming Kasey Harmon as a new Lecturer of Agricultural Leadership and Communications. Ms. Harmon is an ALEC alum, and we are excited to have her back in the department to teach undergraduate courses and mentor students in the program.

08/03/2026

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Joy Rumble as the new Head of the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications.

Dr. Rumble brings considerable experience in teaching, research, and Extension to this position, and we are excited to welcome her leadership.

07/15/2026

We are excited to welcome Dr. Chris Eck as a new faculty member in the ALEC Department!

Dr. Eck joined the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture team this summer as an Associate Professor of Agricultural and Extension Education and the Director of the Tennessee Next Chapter Program. In his role, Dr. Eck will also support professional development and outreach with Tennessee agricultural and Extension educators.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Eck!

07/13/2026

We have had an eventful summer in the ALEC department, starting with celebrating the accomplishments of our faculty!

Congratulations to our ALEC faculty who were recognized at this year's university-wide Academic Honors Banquet.

Dr. Shelli Danjean Rampold received the Success in Multidisciplinary Research award as a member of the UTIA Flood Recovery Initiative team.

Dr. Tyler Granberry received the Excellence in Advising award.

Dr. Blake Colclasure received the Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year award.

05/14/2026

ALEC faculty, staff and students were recently celebrated at the 2026 Herbert Annual Awards Banquet. We would like to congratulate everyone who was recognized for their extraordinary efforts this year.