High school students from across state gathered for week of learning and networking
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – More than 90 high school students from across Tennessee gathered at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, June 1-5, 2026, to participate in the Tennessee Leadership Summit. Hosted by the UT Herbert College of Agriculture in partnership with the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation, the summit provided students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, build connections with peers and industry professionals, and explore opportunities within agriculture.
Throughout the week, students stepped outside their comfort zones as they participated in leadership workshops, field lab experiences, team-building activities and professional development sessions led by UT faculty and agricultural industry leaders. They also heard from an industry panel, learned about academic opportunities within the Herbert College of Agriculture, and competed in the summit’s competition games, modeled after the CBS television series Survivor.
While students arrived from different corners of the state, they quickly discovered they had something in common: a desire to grow as leaders and make a difference in their communities. Through interactive workshops and discussions, students were challenged to think differently about leadership and the roles they can play in serving others.
“Coming into this I thought that leadership was just one person taking charge of everyone else, but after the lesson on the different types of leadership, I know multiple people can be leaders at the same time,” said Tony Easterly from Sequatchie County.
For Carter Brown from Hamilton County, one of the most impactful lessons came from a session focused on active listening. “During our active listening session, I learned to put more emphasis on what I need to do, and it just gives you an overall bigger picture of how to be a better leader,” said Brown. “I think that’s something that this program has done amazing in.”
Beyond the lessons and workshops, many students said the friendships they built throughout the week were what made the experience truly memorable. Participants had the opportunity to connect with other students from across Tennessee, creating friendships and networks that extended beyond the classroom.
For many students, the summit was about more than leadership development. It was also about gaining confidence in themselves and their future.
“This experience made me feel comfortable moving to a new place because I have learned that I can branch out and make new friends,” said Shay Davis from Hawkins County.
“Getting to collaborate with and support so many different people from across the state is so special and important for us as leaders,” said Libbie Lawhon from Tipton County.
Tess Ogg, a participant from Weakley County, said the welcoming atmosphere made the experience memorable. “I think something I’ll always remember is how welcoming and supportive everyone was here,” said Ogg.
Emma Hilliard from Dyer County, added, “My favorite part of the Tennessee Leadership Summit was the “Survivor” games because I felt like I grew so much and made so many connections that I know are going to last a really long time.”
Students also had the opportunity to experience agriculture in action through hands-on field labs and interactive learning experiences across campus. These activities introduced participants to different areas of study within the Herbert College while allowing them to engage with faculty, current students and agricultural professionals.
Participants chose two different hands-on learning opportunities to experience potential careers in agriculture and natural resources. A visit to the Department of Animal Science field lab left a lasting impression on many students. “The field lab in animal science really impacted me,” said a participant. “I have been practicing how to hold a syringe the proper way ever since they taught us earlier this week.” Through this particular experience, participants visited the University of Tennessee’s College of Veterinary Medicine’s simulation lab on campus and were able to perform procedures such as drawing blood from an animal, intubation, palpation and more.
As the week came to a close, students returned home with more than new leadership skills. They left with new friendships, greater confidence and a deeper understanding of the opportunities available within agriculture. Through experiences like the Tennessee Leadership Summit, students are discovering that leadership isn’t about standing in front of others—it’s about learning, serving and growing alongside them.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture comprises the Herbert College of Agriculture, UT College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch and UT Extension. Through its land-grant mission of teaching, research and outreach, the Institute touches lives and provides Real. Life. Solutions. to Tennesseans and beyond. utia.tennessee.edu.