Alumni & Friends
The college prides itself on developing students into successful alumni who are making significant impacts in the fields of agriculture, natural resources, and construction sciences.
How to Get InVOLved
Herbert Young Alumni Council
As the premier leadership opportunity for our young alums, the Herbert Young Alumni Council works to promote all things Herbert College of Agriculture, UT Institute of Agriculture, and University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
For questions about the council, contact Drake Martin at [email protected].
Responsibilities Include:
- In-person attendance for all-day Friday meetings twice per year, once in the fall and once in the spring.
- Commitment to the promotion of the college and agriculture in the state of Tennessee.
- Mentorship opportunities with current Herbert students.
- Assistance with the recruitment of prospective Herbert students.
- Service as an ambassador, advisor, and advocate for Herbert and its leadership.
- Service as a representative for other Herbert and UT alumni.
Alumni Awards
Volunteer 40 Under 40
Three Herbert alumni were included in the Volunteer 40 Under 40 Class of 2026. Herbert is proud of these alums for earning such a prestigious honor and for the impacts they’re making in their careers.
Herbert Awardees:
- Molly Brinkmann, BS in animal science (’10)
- Ronnie Cowan, BS in wildlife and fisheries science (’12), MS in agricultural leadership, education and communications (’15)
- Rachel Vanlandingham, BS in food science (’11)
2024 Distinguished Alumnus Award
Donnie Smith ’80 received the Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna Award, the highest alumni award at UT.
Since graduating with his bachelor’s degree in animal science, Smith’s success in the food business has spanned thirty-six years. Some of his most notable accomplishments include serving as president and CEO of Tyson Foods from 2009 to 2016, supporting the Herbert College of Agriculture by endowing the Smith Center for International Sustainable Agriculture, and being inducted into the Tennessee Poultry Hall of Fame in 2021.
Learn more about his story.
2024 Alumni Promise Award
Taylor Bauldwin ’17 received the Alumni Promise Award for success achieved early in his career.
Upon receiving his bachelor’s degree in food science, Bauldwin has built a successful career in the food and beverage space, with several philanthropic ventures. He founded Rooted Ventures to provide support, recognition, and investment to Black and minority founders in the food and beverage industry. Additionally, he serves as program director for the Melon Kitchen accelerator program in Indianapolis, Indiana, and as a member of the Indy Food Council, contributing to political decisions and helping ensure an equitable food ecosystem.
Learn more about his story.
Contact Us
Herbert Chronicle
Would you like to stay up to date on everything that’s happening at Herbert? Please reach out to join the mailing list for the Herbert Chronicle—the college’s quarterly newsletter.