UT Institute of Agriculture Presents Top Faculty and Staff Awards for 2020
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture recognized extraordinary service from members of the faculty and staff across the state at its annual awards and promotions event, held this year on August 21, 2020. Honorees were recognized virtually during a Zoom presentation rather than a fun, in-person luncheon. This change in venue did not minimize the amazing accomplishments for 2020. Many of the awards are gifts made possible by past faculty, alumni and friends of the Institute.
Karen Nelms, UT Extension Jefferson County director and 4-H agent, is the winner of the G.L. Carter Award. The honor is named for the late G.L. Carter who had a 44-year career with Extension in Tennessee and North Carolina.
“Being recognized for the G.L. Carter Outstanding 4-H Youth Development Award is truly an honor when I consider all who have won previously and the magnitude of their contributions to 4-H,” Nelms says. “I am grateful for the many mentors I have had who empowered me to be the best 4-H agent I can be. I am humbled and honored to receive this award.”
Nelms has served with UT Extension for 18 years and worked in Grainger County prior to her current role. Her innovative 4-H programs include the Patriot Sports Shooting Team.
UT Institute of Agriculture Senior Vice President Tim Cross hosted the Zoom session for the award winners and praised them for their work. “Now more than ever, it’s critical that we take time to acknowledge the award-winning work that our faculty and staff carry out, even in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic,” Cross says. “Tennesseans can count on the real-life solutions that the UT Institute of Agriculture provides to students and stakeholders from communities throughout Tennessee and beyond to enhance the economy, conserve the environment, and develop leaders for the future.”
Through its mission of research, teaching and extension, the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture touches lives and provides Real. Life. Solutions. utia.tennessee.edu.