The Academy for Global Scholars (AGS), an initiative tailored for first-year, first-generation students, offers an unparalleled opportunity for global engagement and personal development during the first year on campus at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As it enters its fifth iteration, AGS is enthused to introduce the members of the 2025-26 cohort.
Eighteen students have been selected for this year’s AGS program and they will convene as a cohort during the fall semester. Programming will include a series of consistent gatherings featuring guest lecturers and researchers, service activities and a general education course. The academy will culminate with an overseas academic abroad experience in Costa Rica during the spring of 2026. Subsequently, in the fall semester of 2026, these scholars will participate in Discovery Day—a campus-wide event where undergraduate researchers present recent projects and research to their peers.
The Center for Global Engagement collaborates with the the Smith Center for International Sustainable Agriculture, Office of Undergraduate Admissions, the Academic Success Center, the Division of Diversity and Engagement, alongside other select university departments, to orchestrate the execution of the AGS program. The university and a generous alumni donor provide the financial support which facilitate the participation of the following students in this prestigious first-year program.
Questions about AGS should be directed to Carrera Romanini, assistant professor at the Smith Center. Correspondence can be directed to carrera@utk.edu.
Meet the 2025–26 Cohort of the Academy for Global Scholars
Zianobu Akindele
Hello, my name is Zianobu Akindele, and I’m from Memphis, TN. My parents arefrom Nigeria and moved to the U.S. before I was born. I’m a freshman currently pursuing a degree in Nursing, with the intention of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). Growing up, I was taught that family was important, and it’s really stuck with me. I love spending time with family and friends. I spent most of my days in the hospital, which ultimately made me want to pursue nursing since nurses can brighten people’s day. I currently work at UT Medical Center, which has given me insight into my future career. Hobbies I enjoy spending the most time on are pottery, drawing, and hanging out with friends. I’m excited to be able to experience AGS because it really gives you a different perspective on other cultures, and learning new information will then help me care for others, no matter their backgrounds.
Major: Nursing
Marcel Beauchamp
Hi! My name is Marcel Beauchamp and I’m from Maryville, TN. I’m a freshman currently majoring in Music Education with an emphasis in strings in hopes to oneday become an orchestra teacher. I’ve always had an inherent love for music and now want to share the joy music has given me with as many people as possible through what is, in my opinion, one of the most rewarding experiences in life – learning. My instrument is Cello, which I have been playing for about 5 years. Outside of music, my hobbies consist of mostly gaming and crocheting. I was drawn to UTK because of its wide breadth of opportunities, its variety of ways to get involved in the local community, its closeness to my hometown, and the availability of resources it offers. I’m very excited to be part of AGS this year and cannot wait to explore various cultures and gain new perspectives on our world!
Major: Music Education
Eleny Berehanu
Hello! My name is Eleny Berehanu. I was born in Ethiopia and moved to Nashville, Tennessee, when I was 3 years old. I’m a freshman here at UT, majoring in Marketing in the Haslam College of Business. I chose the University of Tennessee because of the school’s ability to push students towards success. Even though I’ve only been a student here for a couple of months, I feel extremely supported and guided. In my free time, I love to draw, watch movies, and hang out with friends. My passion for art ties into why I chose my major. I hope to be the creative mind behind brand marketing in the future. I’m excited to continue my journey at both the university and AGS, and to explore more fun opportunities!
Major: Marketing
Jordan Collins
Hello, my name is Jordan, and I am from Spring Hill, Tennessee. I am currently majoring in neuroscience on a pre-med track. I hope to be either a family medicine physician or a pediatrician in the future. In my free time, I love to listen to and play music, as I play acoustic guitar and bass. I also love to read and write, and I hope to publish my own book someday. I love traveling and learning about other cultures, so I am very excited to be a part of the Academy for Global Scholars this year! I am so excited to learn about many different cultures throughout class and become a more involved global citizen. I can’t wait to travel with the cohort to Costa Rica at the end of the year and apply what we have learned!
Major: Pre-Med
Lane Comstock
Hey! My name is Lane Comstock, and I’m currently a freshman studying biology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville on a pre-med track. I hope to concentrate in Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology. I am a first generation college student from the middle Tennessee area. Some of my hobbies include kayaking, hiking, camping, and crocheting. I loved the University of Tennessee due to its location right by the Smoky Mountains, friendly atmosphere, and numerous opportunities for pre-med students. I am extremely excited to be a part of AGS and gain new experiences that will help shape my view of the world. I hope to use this knowledge to help me better care for future patients and achieve my goal of serving as a physician with Doctor Without Borders.
Major: Pre-Med
Emily Diaz
Hi, my name is Emily Diaz, and I am originally from Gatlinburg, TN, but moved to Knoxville 3 years ago! I speak fluent English and Spanish and I’m working on being able to read Russian! Currently, my major is Marketing, but I am also considering Supply Chain Management because I am interested in both the creative and logistical sides of business. In high school I was involved in many activities and am so excited to do the same here at UTK! I chose UTK for its beautiful campus, vibrant community, and the wide range of resources available to students both inside and outside the classroom. I’m looking forward to all the events and activities UTK has to offer this school year. Through AGS, I’m especially excited to explore cultures I might not otherwise get the chance to experience. I can’t wait for this opportunity to broaden my knowledge, expand my perspective, and deepen my understanding of the world and its many diverse parts.
Major: Marketing
McKayla Duckett
My name is McKayla Duckett and I was born in Lexington, KY. I moved to Maryville, TN just before I turned one. I love to spend time with friends, go to the mountains, read books, and watch sports. I chose to come to the University of Tennessee because the energy and atmosphere were infectious during my tour and because of all of the many opportunities I will have here on Rocky Top. It does not hurt that it is also close to home. Since I was in third grade, I knew I wanted to go into the field of medicine. I am proud to say that I am studying Pre-Medicine at UTK and will continue my education further to become an anesthesiologist.
Major: Pre-Med
Zoie George
Hello! My name is Zoie George I’m from Memphis, Tennessee and I am a first generation student. I am currently on the exploratory track with the goals of going into the legal field. In high school I experimented with different law internships and have a passion for making change. I chose UTK because of the beautiful campus and its proximity to home as well as how much space I was given to branch out even without an established major. I was nervous at first but UTK has been extremely welcoming. While I have only just begun my AGS journey, the people are friendly and make me feel at home. GO VOLS!
Major: Exploratory
Aiden Hepworth
Hi, my name is Aiden Hepworth, and I am from Clinton, TN. I am currently an electrical engineering major, and I hope to someday work in the aeronautics industry. I would love to work either on the design, or the electrical workings of aircraft, as they have always fascinated me. I chose and love UTK because it provides me with so many opportunities that relate to my major and other interests. I was able to join the SSTA (Student Space Technology Association) which will allow me to garner experience in my field so early in my schooling, and I can even write and publish a research paper through it as an undergrad. I was also able to join clubs that relate to my hobbies, such as rock climbing, and woodworking. UTK has been an amazing experience so far, and I’m incredibly excited to dive deep into my major and extracurriculars.
Major: Electrical Engineering
Avery Hopson
Hello! My name is Avery Hopson, and I am from Knoxville, Tennessee. I am a freshman at UTK, majoring in Chemical Engineering, who hopes to pursue a concentration in biomolecular engineering. I enjoy hobbies such as reading fiction novels, crocheting, and playing the flute. I chose UTK because of its inviting and positive atmosphere, supportive administration, and proximity to home. I’m incredibly excited for where my journey at UTK will take me, and I eagerly await how much my experience with AGS will help me grow as a person!
Major: Chemical Engineering
Justin Jones
My name is Justin Jones, and I am a Finance major at the Haslam College of Business with aspirations of becoming a Business and Corporate lawyer. Throughout high school, I actively engaged in organizations such as the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Key Club, and DECA, where I served as president. These experiences strengthened my leadership, teamwork, and commitment to service, while also sparking a passion for exploring new opportunities. Outside of academics, I enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends—interests that connect closely with my excitement for joining the Academy for Global Scholars. This program offers a unique opportunity to immerse myself in new cultures, build meaningful relationships, and develop cross-cultural and interpersonal skills that will shape both my personal growth and future career.
Major: Finance
Skyla Jones
Hello, my name is Skyla Jones. I grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee. I am a freshman at UT, and my major is Supply Chain Management in the Haslem College of Business. I chose University of Tennessee as it’s my hometown college and has always been my dream college. I have wanted to go here since I was a child. A major drive I have is to someday travel the world to experience and explore different cultures and places. My plans after college are to go abroad and travel. One of the things I enjoy about the University of Tennessee is the inability to be bored on campus. Every day on campus there is something new to do, see, and learn about. I am very excited to see what the future holds for me at UTK and beyond.
Major: Supply Chain Management
Sarah Maleak
Hello, my name is Sarah Maleak, and I’m from Gallatin, Tennessee. I’m a first-generation college student majoring in chemical engineering at the University of Tennessee.
I graduated from Saint Andrew’s-Sewanee School, where I played basketball, ran track and field, served as president of the Black Student Union and as a Student Body leader.
At UT, I’m eager to stay involved and give back to the campus and local community. I love the supportive environment, and the Volunteer spirit truly inspires me.
Through this opportunity with AGS, I’m excited to explore a new country and culture. I’m looking forward to gaining a broader perspective, connecting with others from diverse backgrounds, and growing as both a student and global citizen. I’m honored to represent UT and bring these experiences back to my community.
Major: Chemical Engineering
Madison Malone
Hi! My name is Madison Malone and I am from Greeneville, Tennessee. I am majoring in history with plans to attend law school after graduation. I love animals, sports, and reading and hope to explore these interests and get involved with more during my time here. I have always been interested in other cultures and traveling and I am excited to have the opportunity to learn and experience all I can through this program and others I might get connected with in Vol Country!
Major: History
Neveah Marshall
Hello! I am originally from Gridley, California, but I moved to Jamestown, Tennessee two years ago. I am a freshman, majoring in pre-med and plan to become an anesthesiologist. I have dreamed of entering the medical field for years, and have been drawing inspiration from my grandma, who has worked in medicine my whole life. I aspire to help as many people as she has, and make a difference in people’s lives. My cousin and I have also talked about being able to work in the same area, since she plans to work in the medical field as well. My family members are my biggest supporters, and they motivate me to try my best everyday. Some of my hobbies include reading, participating in performing arts, and hanging out with my friends. I read as much as possible and try to spend time with my friends and my boyfriend when I can. I have performed in theatre since elementary school and joined choir in high school. It is one of my passions, and my escape outside of school. School is another passion of mine, and I am so excited to begin my college journey here at UTK and become involved in other amazing organizations, such as this one. It was an honor to be accepted into AGS and I am so excited to be able to participate in this program.
Major: Pre-Med
Elizabeth Miller
Hi, my name is Elizabeth Miller, I’m originally from Springfield, MO, but moved to Knoxville, TN when I was nine years old. This move allowed me to discover my love for all things outdoors, especially mountain bike racing, which I did in high school, along with running track. I’m currently studying civil engineering and hope to find a career with a meaningful and sustainable impact on the environment and community. Traveling is another big part of my life—I’m always searching for new places to explore, preferably with a hike and a unique view. I am excited for the community and all the opportunities UT has to offer, especially AGS, which will allow me to expand my knowledge of other cultures and travel outside the country for the first time!
Major: Civil Engineering
Malia Morgan
Hi! My name is Malia Morgan, and I am from Hartsville, TN. I am a first-generation student studying Pre-Medicine, in hopes of attending UTHSC College of Medicine to become an OBGYN. My primary goal in life is to dedicate my time to helping patients, particularly women and newborns. I enjoy spending time with my two parents and grandmother, working at my local assisted living facility, and painting my own nails. Apart from AGS, I am a member of Pi Beta Phi’s TN Gamma chapter. Growing up as a little girl attending football games in Neyland Stadium, I always knew I wanted to attend the University of Tennessee, and I couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else. I ultimately chose UTK because of its strong academics, social life, and global opportunities. The Academy for Global Scholars program offers me the opportunity to study abroad while gaining a deeper understanding of diverse cultures. I’m truly excited to be part of this program and look forward to all that AGS has to offer! And as always, GO VOLS!
Major: Pre-Med
Kyle Spurlock
I am a biology major on a pre-med track. I chose pre-med because I really enjoyed Anatomy and learning how the body functions, and I want to my career to be about helping people. I am from Knoxville, and I chose UT because it is the closest major university that I could attend while living at home. I really like working out and staying active. I am part of the Rock Climbing Club and the American Medical Student Association Club. I love pets; I have a cat named Goose, and a bearded dragon named Misfit. I love traveling, and I have been to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. My love for traveling is one of the reasons I wanted to join AGS and learn about different cultures from around the world!
Major: Pre-Med
Queijah Stewart
Hey! I’m Queijah. I am a first year and first generation student as well. I plan to study Accounting. Outside of academics I enjoy crafting, like painting and crocheting. In high school, I was proud to have graduated as top 10%! I am excited for the opportunities and experiences I run into with Academy for Global Scholars, as this will be my first time traveling internationally. I am very excited to learn about different cultures, languages, etc. This experience will broaden my knowledge and perspective on the world and different cultures around me.
Major: Accounting
Noelle Trinidad
Hello! My name is Noelle Trinidad and I’m from Murfreesboro, Tennessee. I am majoring in History with a minor in American Civics, with the goal of attending law school after my undergraduate years. I have always had an interest in the connections between history, education, and youth civic engagement, which was further strengthened in high school through activities such as volunteering for the National Park Service and being a delegate to Girls State. At UT, I look forward to being involved in the community and continuing to pursue opportunities that allow me to be a well-rounded and ambitious individual. I am especially excited to be apart of the AGS cohort and be able to expand the breadth of my worldview through education on other cultures and international exploration!
Major: History
Jenna Vardy
Hi! My name is Jenna, and I’m from Crossville, Tennessee. I’m currently majoring in Biology and really enjoying my time here at The University of Tennessee. One of the things I’m most looking forward to is the opportunity to study abroad this coming spring. I’ll be traveling with AGS to Costa Rica, and I’m so excited to explore a new country, experience its culture, and see its incredible biodiversity firsthand. I feel that experiences like this will give me a chance to grow, both personally and academically, and I can’t wait to share what I learn when I return. I’m proud to be part of this program and grateful for the opportunities it provides.
Major: Biological Sciences
Aaden Vazquez
What’s up! I’m a first generation college student whose both parents have immigrated from Mexico for me to strive for a better education. My passion is for the environment but more specifically our urban environment and my goal is to bring some form of change to our way of movement through cities. My major is Civil Engineering and I hope to I get into transportation engineering my academic and professional careers. AGS has provided me a once in a lifetime chance to explore the world and gain genuine, meaningful knowledge of cultures that will help me with my work! One of the things I love about the campus is the scale, there’s so much to do, space to see, and people to meet (check out the UT Botanical Gardens).
Major: Civil Engineering
Tyler Wortman
Hi, my name is Tyler Wortman, and I am from Athens, Tennessee. I’m majoring in political science and minoring with the chancellors Honor’s Program. With this, I hope to one day live and work abroad as I have always loved to travel. Some of my hobbies include readings, playing Catan, and playing pickleball. I chose UT for a variety of reasons two of which are the opportunities that UT offers and the connections you can make here, AGS being one of them. Secondly, I chose UT because of the spirit and community that being a vol comes with. I am very excited to be a part of AGS, and I cannot wait to grow connections and travel with the people I meet in this group.
Major: Political Science