Three University of Tennessee, Knoxville, students have been selected for the inaugural cohort of the Future Talent Council’s Global Student Fellowship Program, which brings together 31 high-performing university students from 14 universities across 10 countries.
Students selected for the 6-month fellowship will collaborate across disciplines, cultures, and time zones while developing future-ready skills and contributing student perspectives to conversations shaping the future of work, talent, and leadership.
Joining this cohort from UT are Max Aba, Derek Gunter, and Miana Rankin.
Meet the Recipients
Max Aba
Max Aba is a sophomore double majoring in Elementary Education and Religious Studies in the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences.
“Being selected for this opportunity means a lot to me. I’ve always wanted to do work that helps people, even if it goes unnoticed, so it feels special to be recognized every once in a while,” Aba said. “I am truly grateful for all the faculty at UT who have helped me on my journey, providing me with advice, mentorship, and helping me to believe in myself. I wouldn’t be here without all of you.”
Aba hopes to gain global awareness from the experience. Having previously studied abroad in Puerto Rico and Japan while currently studying abroad in London, England. He has expressed a desire to continue learning from people with backgrounds different from his own.
“Moreover, I hope to work on self-development skills for my future role as a teacher. Getting the opportunity to be mentored is something I always value. Whenever I am around someone who knows more than me, I try to be a sponge and soak in as much relevant information as I can.”
Aba was nominated for the programs by Dr. Julie Owens, Assistant Professor of Special Education & Applied Learning Sciences, in CEHHS.
“Max stood out among over 500 students I’ve taught since joining UT,” Dr. Owens said. “He brings a rare combination of academic excellence, global perspective, and deeply personal purpose to everything he does. … He is exactly the kind of student who will represent UT with distinction on a global stage.”
Derek Gunter
Derek Gunter is a junior majoring in Data Science with a minor in Applied Artificial Intelligence in the College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies. He was nominated for the program by Dr. Abebe Rorissa, Professor & Director of the School of Information Sciences in the College of Communication and Information.
“Being selected for the Future Talent Council’s first Global Student Fellowship truly means a lot to me. As someone who spent over 20 years in the Marine Corps before returning to school, this opportunity represents growth, transition, and the belief that it’s never too late to step into new spaces,” Gunter said.
“It feels like a bridge between my past experiences in leadership and service and my future in data and technology. More than anything, it’s an honor to be trusted with a seat at a global table to speak as a representative of the University of Tennessee where ideas about talent and opportunity are being shaped.”
Gunter hopes to learn how different countries think of leadership, education, and the future of work. He is especially interested in how AI and data can expand opportunities.
“I’m looking forward to meaningful conversations, being challenged intellectually, and building relationships that extend beyond the program. For me, this experience is about growth and not just professionally but personally.”
Dr. Rorissa believed Gunter was an ideal choice for the program due to his leadership during a study abroad experience.
“Derek, in addition to his academic excellence, has shown himself to be a true Volunteer and represented the school, college, and university with distinction on a recent study abroad trip to Morocco,” he said. “… During various activities, including cultural and educational ones, Derek often took charge of situations and sessions.”
Miana Rankin
Miana Rankin is a senior pursuing a degree in Nursing through the College of Nursing.
“It is an incredible honor to represent UT as a Fellow in the first Future Talent Council Global Student Fellowship cohort. As the only representative from UT’s College of Nursing, I am proud to elevate the nursing voice in global conversations shaping the future of work and healthcare, while learning alongside remarkably talented peers from around the world.”
Rankin is eager to connect with peers and international experts she otherwise would not have access to.
“I hope to bring my patient-centered perspective to conversations about innovation and impact. I am excited to contribute meaningfully while learning from diverse experiences and help shape a more equitable and effective future for work and healthcare.”
She was nominated for the program by Kelly Cherrie, Recruitment and Admissions Coordinator and Student Ambassador Advisor for CON.
“I am proud to endorse Miana Rankin, whose exceptional leadership, integrity, and initiative demonstrated through her service as a Student Ambassador at the College of Nursing set her apart as a confident, compassionate role model who uplifts others and leads with grace, resilience, and unwavering commitment,” Cherrie said.
The January 2026 cohort includes students studying across fields such as business, economics, computer science, engineering, and the social sciences, representing universities in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Fellows were selected through a competitive process in partnership with participating universities.
The inaugural cohort will complete the program in June 2026, coinciding with the annual FTC Stockholm Summit.
Visit the Future Talent Council website to learn more about the organization’s mission and programming.