UT Institute of Agriculture Presents Top Faculty and Staff Awards for 2023
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture recognized some of its top faculty, staff, researchers and Extension experts at UTIA’s annual awards and promotions luncheon on the UTIA campus in Knoxville on August 15, 2023. Many of the awards are gifts made possible by faculty, alumni and friends of the Institute.
UT Institute of Agriculture Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President Keith Carver hosted the award winners and celebrated their work. “I’m excited to celebrate the amazing work of our UTIA faculty and staff,” says Carver. “These awards are well-deserved and represent our employees’ steadfast dedication to their work, the Institute and the people of Tennessee. The impact of their accomplishments and passion will be felt for generations to come.”
Charley Martinez, assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, is one recipient of the J.E. Moss Achievement Award. Established in memory of J.E. and Ann Moss, this award recognizes excellent achievement in teaching, research, and Extension for the Institute of Agriculture. Awards are provided each year for each of the four units of the Institute of Agriculture. They are selected by a committee including the senior vice president and senior vice chancellor and the four deans of the Institute. Darcy Smith from AgResearch, Brian Whitlock from the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, and Emma Willcox from the School of Natural Resources also received the award.
“I’m thankful for this recognition, but, it takes a team to be successful in Extension,” says Martinez. “Here at UT, we have some of the best agents and specialists to collaborate with. Additionally, it takes a great team at home. Thanks to my wife, Vanessa, and two kids, Henry and Remington, for their support.”
Martinez has worked with UTIA for three and a half years and specializes in farm and financial management, livestock and meat economics, and policy. He enjoys the many opportunities to help producers and students grow.
Martinez earned a doctorate in Agricultural Economics from Texas A&M University, and his bachelors in Agribusiness -Ranch Management from Texas A&M University- Kingsville.
Through its land-grant mission of research, teaching and extension, the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture touches lives and provides Real. Life. Solutions. utia.tennessee.edu.