AGR NAMED TOP UT FRATERNITY!!!

Alpha Kappa was named IFC Chapter of the Year at the annual Greek Awards Banquet on February 8th, 2017. President JR Clay filled out the application in early December, giving the committee a list of our accomplishments and a description of our values. The committee was especially impressed with our philosophy of making better men and our campus involvement. We were also nominated for Best President (Mason Hodge), Best New Member (Thomas Adams), and Outstanding Advisor (Doug Craig). We are proud to bring home this award and only see improvement in the future.

     Pictured above: Doug Craig, Tyler Doss, Sam Daniel, JR Clay, Jordan Pruitt, Hunter Jones.

UTIA CHANCELLOR INITIATED INTO AGR!

 

 

 

     

     Alpha Kappa chapter was honored to initiate Dr. Tim Cross (pictured center above), Chancellor of the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA) into our Brotherhood in April.

     Brother Cross’ almost 23-year career at UT includes serving as Intern Chancellor of UTIA, Dean of UT Extension (2008 to 2016), Assistant Dean (2001 to 2006) and as Professor of Agricultural Economics for seven years.

     Brother Cross earned his BS and MS degrees in Ag Economics from Oklahoma State University and doctoral degree in agricultural and resources economics from Oregon State University.

AGR ELECTED UT 2017 INTERFRATENITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Hunter Jones, AKSN-1215, is the Interfraternity Council President for 2017. As the IFC president, he will serve as the primary student liaison between the 16 fraternities at the University of Tennessee and the university’s administration. He will also serves as a resource to the fraternities, including AGR, and aids in progressing the IFC community forward as many changes continue to take place on campus. During his term as IFC president, Hunter stated that he hope is to “further the increase the number of students involved in fraternities as well as better broadcast the many great accomplishments that our fraternities.”

     Hunter is a junior majoring in Animal Science from Lafayette, TN.  Hunter is AGR’s 2nd IFC President in the past three years.

 

FIVE AGRS 2017 UT AMBASSADORS

     Five  Alpha Kappa brothers will represent UT as UT Ambassadors for the 2017/18 school year.  UT Ambassadors are the principal student liaisons for prospective students and their parents.  They act as guides on campus tours, answer questions and help awareness of opportunities at UT. 

     AGR’s UT Ambassadors are (pictured above) Colton Smith, AKSN-1192, McNairy, TN, Ag Business, Nick Baker, AKSN-1228, Cookeville, TN; Agricultural Leadership; Peyton Sosebee, AKSN-1237, Animal Science/Pre-Vet, Rock Hill, SC.; Hunter Sandidge, AKSN-1262, Lynchburg, VA; Supply Chain Mgmt; and Dallas Bush, AKSN-1276, Seiverville, Supply Chain Mgmt.  

THREE AGRS 2017 CASNR AMBASSADORS

     AGR is represented for the 2017/18 school year with three brothers serving as CASNR Ag Ambassadors. Pictured above: (L-R) Matthew Harlan, Sam Daniel, John Calvin Bryant.

     The CASNR Ambassador team serves to recruit future students to the agriculture campus by traveling to college fairs, giving campus tours, helping the Deans office to conduct events on campus, and represent the College of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources.

• Matthew Harlan , AKSN-1219, Jackson, TN, Animal Science
• Sam Daniel, AKSN-1244, Covington, TN; Plant Science
• John Calvin Bryant, AKSN-1275, Lawrenceburg, TN Animal Science

     Matthew will be serving his second year as an Ambassador, while Sam and John Calvin will begin their first year as Ambassadors, and Matthew will be serving his first year.     

 

DEAN BEYL HONORED BY AGR

     Dr. Caula Beyl, Dean of the UT College of Agriculture and Natural Resources has been honored with AGR’s Outstanding Faculty Award for her many contributions to the chapter. 

Pictured with Dean Beyl are (L-R) Stephen Anderson, Dr. Beyl, J R Clay, and Jacob Harrison.

 

 

ANN ALYSE RICCI NEW HOUSEMOTHER!

 

     The brothers of Alpha Kappa are pleased to have a new house mom! Mom Ann Alyse Ricci grew up on a 4th generation farm in Iowa with eight older siblings. She previously served as the House Director for Phi Gamma Delta and is excited to be with the AGR. When asked what her favorite part about being a house mother is, she explained that she has a son who lives in Florida with his wife and kids, and when he was born, she only wanted boys from then on. While he was her only child, being a house mother gives her the opportunity to be the mom of many great young men. We are so excited to have Mom Ann Alyse as our house mother and look forward to many years to come!  

 

AGR GAINS 25 NEW BROTHERS IN 2016/17

Fall 2016 Rush at UT produced another great set of young men wanting to be brothers of Alpha Gamma Rho.  The hard work and effort put forth by VNR-Recruitment Percy McReynolds paid off as 19 outstanding UT students signed bid cards following IFC Rush.  Headlining the group are three Alpha Kappa legacies: Jesse Head, son of Terry Head, AKSN-479 (and brother of Clint Head, AKSN-93 and Clay Head, AKSN-1019), Charles Harrison, son of John Harrison, AKSN-547, and grandson of Charles Harrison, AKSN-72, and Tyler Doss, son of Barry Doss, AKSN-621.       

      Winter 2017 Rush at UT produced another great set of six young men wanting to be brothers of Alpha Gamma Rho.  The hard work and effort put forth by VNR-Recruitment Addison Jones.      

Winter 2017 Rush at UT produced another great set of young men wanting to be brothers of Alpha Gamma Rho.  The hard work and effort put forth by VNR-Recruitment Addison Jones.  New brothers pictured above: Will Lovell, Michael Aleman, Austin Ford, Chase Cardoza, and Zach Petitt. Austin Wilson not pictured.

 

                                      

 

2017 ALPHA GAMMA RHO LEADERSHIP SEMINAR 

    

     Alpha Kappa chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho was represented (16 alums, 18 undergraduates) at the annual Alpha Gamma Rho/ Sigma Alpha leadership conference in Nashville, Tennessee February 3-4 and was themed as the “Total Leader Challenge.” Brothers developed their leadership skills by participating in group activities & breakout sessions. 

     The weekend culminated with the Alpha Upsilon chapter initiating Joe DiPietro, President of the University of Tennessee System into AGR.  We would like to thank headquarters for putting on an excellent conference and are looking forward to next year’s event. Alpha Kappa alumni in attendance included Stratton Bone, Waymon Hickman, Doug Craig, Ken Alley, Hale Moss, Larry McCraney, Jerry Estes, Mike Estes, Mark Wilson, Don Miller, Louis Buck, Reuben Buck, Keith Harrison, Tracey Binkley, Evan Smith, and Evan Beech.

UT PRESIDENT BECOMES AGR

 

     Dr. Joe DiPietro, President of the University of Tennessee was initiated into Alpha Gamma Rho at the AGR Leadership Seminar in Nashville February 4.  Welcome Brother DiPietro to Alpha Gamma Rho!

AGR GRADUATES FIVE BROTHERS DECEMBER 2016

     Alpha Gamma Rho is proud to see five brothers complete their studies at UT and graduate,  These brothers are listed below.

     My name is Jake Sproul, AKSN-1155. I'm from good ole Mule Town, Tennessee --- better known as Columbia, Tennessee. I joined Alpha Gamma Rho in Fall of 2012 and spent 4 1/2 years with the fraternity where I served as Intramural chair and on the Recruiting team for a semester each. I've recently graduated with a double major in Supply Chain Management and Marketing with an International Business collateral. My final GPA was a 3.37. I’ve taken a job as inside salesman with Symmetry Surgical.

      I am Collin Gatlin, AKSN-1167, from Mt Juliet, TN. I just graduated with a bachelor of science in communication, major in public relations, minor in business administration. During my time at UT, I served positions as a Resident Assistant, Orientation Leader, Orientation Director, IFC VP of Recruitment, and IFC VP of Public Relations. I also served as a benefits communications intern with Kimberly-Clark Corporation and a guest services intern with DollyWood's DreamMore Resort. I am currently living in Nashville with plans of working in publicity and general communications within the music industry.

      My name is Tanner Pritchett, AKSN-1175. I am from Pleasant View, TN. I joined Alpha Gamma Rho in the fall of 2013. Throughout my time at Alpha Kappa, I served as Traditions Chair, Usher, and Homecoming Chair. I was also a CASNR Ambassador, Farm Credit Scholar, and a member of the Ag Business Club. Now that I have graduated, I will be starting a job with the Robertson-Cheatham Farmer's Cooperative. 

      Hello, my name is Blake French, AKSN-1182 from Paris, Tennessee. As an Undergrad here at The University of Tennessee I was a Kinesiology major and served at VNR-Scholarship in 2015.  I received my Bachelor of Science in Education, and in May of 2017 I will attend Logan University School of Chiropractic in St. Louis, Missouri. I will then be a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and plan to work for a practice either back home or for a sports team. 

     My name is Matthew Shih, AKSN-1199 and I am from Knoxville, Tennessee. I have graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a Bachelor in Food Science and Technology. I plan on attending pharmacy school in August of 2017. After receiving my Doctorate in Pharmacy, I plan to search for a residency program before practicing and becoming board certified in critical care pharmacy. During my time at Alpha Kappa I was an assistant social chair.

 

 

TWO AGRs RECEIVE FFA AMERICAN FARMER DEGREES

      Hunter Jones (top right), AKSN-1215 and Nick Baker, (top left), AKSN-1228,  received their American Farmer Degrees at the National FFA Convention held Oct 28-31, 2015 in Louisville, KY. Hunter is an Animal Science major from Lafayette, TN. and Nick is an Ag Communications major from Baxter, TN. 

     Nick served as a 2014/15 State FFA Officer and as 2015/16 National FFA Secretary.

      16 AGRs GRADUATE MAY 2016!

     Alpha Gamma Rho is proud to see sixteen brothers graduate from UT in May 2016

     Will Seeley, AKSN-1139, Pleasant View, TN; has graduated with a double major in Food Science and Food and Agriculture Business. After graduating he plans to work in the food industry. Will was a member of the UT AGR BBQ Team that competed at the National AGR BBQ Contests. Will is the son of Billy Seeley, AKSN-679, and was initiated into AGR in Fall 2011.


     Ethan Massaro, AKSN-1143, Maryville, TN, has graduated with a degree in Political Science. After graduation he plans to serve in District Management with Marcos Pizzas Corporation. Ethan was initiated in AGR in the Spring 2012.

     Connor Villas, AKSN-1145, Charlotte, NC, graduated as a double major in Mass Communication and Political Science. His AGR involvement includes serving as 2014 VNR-Recruitment and 2015 Noble Ruler of the brotherhood. He graduated in the Top 10% of the Graduating Class of Communication Studies. In 2015, Conner served as IFC Vice President of Public Relations. He plans to attend law school in August, either at the University of South Carolina or Samford University.  Conner was initiated in AGR in Fall 2012.

     Trent Bibee, AKSN-1147, Adams, TN, graduated with a degree in Business Management with an International Business collateral. His AGR involvement includes serving as Vice Noble Ruler of Planning and serving as Traditions Chair on campus. After graduation he plans to work for Dematic North America after spending a few months in Mexico. He won a championship boxing belt in the 2015 Ace Miller Boxing Tournament representing AGR Trent was initiated into AGR in Fall 2012.

     Forrest Duncan, AKSN-1156, Decherd, TN, graduated with a degree in Food and Agriculture Business. His AGR involvement involved serving as 2015 VNR-Finance.  Forrest was a CASNR Ag Ambassador from 2013/14-2015/16.  In 2015, he was recognized as the Outstanding Junior in the Food & Ag Business Department.  He was also a Farm Credit Scholar at UT, NAMA team member, and SGA Academic Affairs Director. After graduation he has returned to the farm. Forrest was initiated in AGR in Fall 2012.

      Corey Powell, AKSN-1158, Loudon, TN, has graduated with a degree in Turfgrass Management.  He is looking forward to entering the professional world. Corey  was initiated into AGR in Fall 2012.

     Josh Schueller, AKSN-1161, Bethel Springs, TN) has graduated with a degree in Microbiology. He served as Alpha Kappa’s House Manager. He was a member of Alpha Delta Epsilon honorary. He was Magna Cum Laude of his program, and is in the process of applying to medical school. Josh was initiated into AGR in Winter 2013.

  Andy Hickman, AKSN-1162, Lafollette, TN, has graduated with a degree in Finance. His AGR involvement included playing on the softball team. His future plans include searching for a job in banking. Andy is the grandson of Waymon Hickman. AKSN-116. Andy was initiated into AGR in Winter 2013.

     Sheridan Brewer, AKSN-1163, Hohenwald, TN, graduated as a Honors Microbiology Major and a Neuroscience Minor. He served Alpha Kappa as the 2015 Philanthropy Chair, and was a member of the 2016 Recruitment Committee. His campus involvement included receiving the Chancellor’s Citation for Professional Promise and Honorable Mention at the UTK 20th Annual Exhibition of Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement. Sheridan was also 2016 UT Honors Council President.  He served as a Welcome Leader, Honors Mentor, and Honors Ambassador.  In 2015 he did a summer internship with the Mayo Clinic and in 2014, he did an internship with the UT Health Sciences Center in Memphis. His plan after graduation is to be a Post-Baccalaureate Research intern at Oak Ridge National Lab and begin applying to medical schools. Sheridan was initiated into AGR in Winter 2013.

     Reid McCullough, AKSN-1164, Hendersonville, TN), graduated with a degree in Biochemical and Cellular and Molecular Biology. He served Alpha Kappa as VNR-Scholarship in 2014. He plans to take a year off to travel, then attend medical school. In 2014, Reid interned at the UT Health Science Center in Memphis.  Reid was initiated into AGR in Winter 2013.

     Bryan Agee, AKSN-1168, Mt. Juliet, TN, graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering. He served Alpha Kappa as Assistant House Manager and an Interfraternity Council delegate. He made the Dean’s List, and his plans after graduation are to pursue a career in Project Management.  Bryan was initiated into AGR in Winter 2013.

     Will Freeman, AKSN-1169, Portland, TN, graduated with a degree in Agriculture Communications. His AGR involvement includes serving as VNR-Alumni Relations, Greek Week Chair, and is now a proud Skid Row alum. Will was a CASNR Ag Ambassador from 2013/14-2015/16 and was CASNR Representative for UT Student Senate in 2014/15.  He served as UT Student Government President in 2015/16.  Will received the UT Chancellor’s Medallion on campus in 2016. Will was elected as 2015 receiptant of the Prof Cole Leadership Award and was selected as AGR’s Big Man of Campus in 2015 & 2016. He’s currently looking for a job and would love some help.  Will was initiated into AGR in Winter 2013.                      

     Dane Brunson, AKSN-1171, Seymour, TN, graduated with a degree in Kinesiology.  Dane served as VNR-Recruitment in 2015.  He was selected as 2016  AGR Athlete of the Year. He is looking to enter Physical Therapy school at UT Center for Health Sciences-Memphis or East Tennessee State.  Dane was initiated into AGR in Spring 2013.

     Evan Willis, AKSN-1178, Hillsboro, TN, graduated with a degree in Plant Science, and plans to begin working at Health Flavors Herbs. Evan is the son of Donald Willis, AKSN-622. He was initiated into AGR Fall 2013.

     Spencer Jones, AKSN-1182, Franklin, TN, graduated as a Business Management with a collateral in International Business major. His AGR involvement included serving as Risk Manager, Philanthropy Chairman, and VNR of Membership Development. He also received the AGR Promise and Alumni scholarship. Spencer was 2015 IFC Director of Philanthropy. His plans after graduation are to begin the application process for the Metro Nashville Police Department. Spencer was initiated into AGR in Fall 2013.

     Casey Anderson, AKSN-1183, Thompson Station, TN  has graduated with a degree in Economics. After graduation, he plans to find his purpose in life and is excited for the future. Casey served a year as an UT Resident Hall Assistant, 2013/14 in Reese Hall. Casey was initiated into AGR in Fall 2013.

 

AGR WINS 2015 HOMECOMING! AGAIN

  AGR brings home its 8th Homecoming trophy in the past 11 years.

    

Brother Isaac Britt pictured posing with AGR/AXO’s 2015 Homecoming trophy.

      On Saturday, Nov. 14, 2015, the University of Tennessee Volunteers triumphed with a 24-0 romping over the North Texas “Mean Green” . Prior to Saturday’s game, however, the actives of Alpha Kappa were busy competing in the All-Campus Events’ Home- coming Challenge. We are happy to report that the overall Homecoming 

Champion trophy has returned to its home at 1840! This year we partnered with the lovely ladies of Alpha Chi Omega under the theme of “Let the Games Begin!”

While a sold-out Neyland Stadium and an SEC Network audience watched Tennessee dominate on the field, we received the great news that AGR/AXO won 1st place in Bed Races, Lawn Display, Window Display, Large Float, Smokey’s Howl, Tower of Cans, and placed 2nd in Large Banner. With Brother Isaac Britt leading the Homecoming Committee this year and with the dedicated work of many brothers, Alpha Kappa was well represented to the Volunteer community. As a chapter, we are very proud of our accomplishments and look forward to a successful Homecoming next year with the ladies of Delta Zeta.

AGR RECRUITMENT 32 NEW BROTHERS IN 2015/16

2016 Winter New Member Class:

     Left to right: Back Row: Eric Carter, Andrew Remke, Beck Ensign, Eric Wilkowski, Front Row: Christian Cardona, Hunter Sandidge, Lee Gore, Kyle McMullen, Stephen Anderson, Jordan Pruitt, Nathan Seidner, and Ashton Smith,

      Winter 2016 recruitment netted AGR another outstanding class of 12 new brothers.  VNR-Recruitment Percy McReynolds, his assistants and the chapter are responsible for a diverse class of new men we are proud to call Brothers.  Months of hard work in contacting and meeting incoming students paid off with yet another top flight class of 12.  22 UT students were invited back for interviews, 14 given bids, and 12 accepted.

     AGR continues to be on the lookout for quality men who would benefit Alpha Gamma Rho. 

     Part of the success for Rush comes from your Annual Alumni Dues.  Your dues help support the Rush budget with two Rush scholarships, a stipend for the VNR-Recruitment and funds to support recruitment activities.

FALL 2015 NEW MEMBER CLASS

Left to right: Front row: Andrew Swafford, Parker Keith, Jacob Harrison, Mike Gruden, Brian Greene, Dylan McBride, Sam Daniel

Middle Row left to right: Hunter Foote, Jake Seeley, Austen Burk, Andrew Raffanti, Drew Maudlin, Jake Bartow, Tyler Chumney, Dalton Teel.

Back Row left to right: Nathan Rogers, Patrick Fagan, Ryan Watson, Addison Jones, Garrett Brock

     Fall 2015 recruitment netted AGR another outstanding class of 20 new brothers.  VNR-Recruitment Dane Brunson, his assistants and the chapter are responsible for a diverse class of new men we are proud to call Brothers.  Months of hard work in contacting and meeting incoming students paid off with yet another top flight class of 20.  47 UT students were invited back for interviews, 30 given bids, and 20 accepted.

     In this group are three AGR

legacies.  Will Seeley, AKSN-1238, is the son of Billy Seeley, AKSN-679 and younger brother of Will Seeley, AKSN-1140.  Jacob Harrison, AKSN-1242, is the son of Keith Harrison, AKSN-619, and younger brother of Jonathan Harrison, AKSN-1077.

     Addison Jones, AKSN-1249, is the younger brother of Spencer Jones, AKSN-1183.

     Even with the conclusion of formal Fall IFC  Rush, the chapter continues to be on the lookout for quality men who would benefit Alpha Gamma Rho. 

 

 

 

AGR 2015/16 UT STUDENT GOVERNMENT PRESIDENT

     In April of last year, I was fortunate in being selected as UT's SGA President. In the months since then, many student issues have come forward, including a new Code of Conduct, legislative requests for funding adjustments, meal plan changes, and outsourcing considerations. While none of these topics were expected at the time of our elections, we have been able to address a few parts of campus that we originally intended to.

     Many students shared concerns over the alcohol policy on our campus, which seemed like a stationary policy for the past few years. We are excited for the conversations had with the Chancellor's Cabinet about this topic, and have high hopes that it will be further addressed by the students that follow us.

     I became interested in this position because of my experience in SGA and, most importantly, older members in AGR. There's no doubt that the connections I've made with our brothers have helped me get to where I am and have helped me with the challenges I've faced since. 

     In just two short months, someone else will be elected and, hopefully, continue the work that has been done this year. I hope that this time has been well-spent and that the brothers of Alpha Kappa will be proud.

     Will Freeman, AKSN-1170

 

AGR AT AG DAY 2015

AGR was well represented at AG Day October 3, 2015. Pictured: Front: Sam Koeshall, Sam Daniel, Zack Fox, Jonathan Ray, Andrew Stafford.  Back: Doug Craig, Mike Estes, Keith Barber, Charlie Goan, Greg Hensley, Adam Hensley, Bobby Simpson, Dale Woods, Larry Arrington, Kyle Hensley.

 

 

AGR ELECTED NATIONAL FFA SECRETARY

This past fall, Brother Nick Baker, AKSN-1228,  was elected to serve as the 2015-16 National FFA Secretary at the 88th National FFA Convention & Expo. As an officer, Nick will travel more than 100,000 national and international miles to interact with business and industry leasers, thousands of FFA members and teachers, corporate sponsors, government and education officials, state FFA leaders, the general public and more. The team will lead personal growth and leadership training conferences for FFA members throughout the country to and help set policies that will guide the future of FFA and promote agricultural literacy. Brother Baker will carry the ideals of the Alpha Kappa chapter throughout his travels. Baker is an agricultural communications major at the University, was the president of the Fall 2014 new member class, and is a UT Collegiate FFA member

AGR NAMED TOP SCOUT

     This past December, Brother Hunter Jones, AKSN-1215, was elected to serve as the 2016 National Chief of the Order of the Arrow (OA), the highest elected youth leadership position in the Boy Scouts of America, representing more than 182,000 members of the Order of  Arrow and 4.5 million Boy Scouts nationwide. As a part of his duties, he will be traveling extensively as the youth ambassador for the OA and Scouting. Hunter will represent Scouting when he traveled to the White House in February where he met with President Obama and deliver a Report to the Nation on Scouting. In addition, he will also lead several leadership development trainings and activities across the United States. Brother Jones will carry the high ideals of Alpha Gamma Rho and the Alpha Kappa Chapter throughout his travels. Hunter is an animal science major and member of the All Campus Events Committee and Student Alumni Associates organizations at the University.

 

TWO AK AGRs REGIONAL NEW AGR VICE PRESIDENTS

 

Two Alpha Kappa alumni have been named AGR Regional Vice Presidents, Ben Marks, AKSN-745 , and Dipal Chaudhari, AKSN-972.  Benjamin and Dipal join Tracey Binkley, AKSN-736, giving Alpha Kappa the honor of having three AGR Regional Vice Presidents!

     The purpose of a Regional Vice President is to further advance the principles of the Alpha Gamma Rho Brotherhood by serving as a liaison and counselor to the National Board of Directors and Staff, collegiate chapters and local alumni organizations, within designated regions.  Ben is the new Regional Vice President for the Pacific Region. Marks’ deep interest in Agriculture and everything outdoors began at an early age on his family’s Middle Tennessee farm and grew deeper with nine years of 4-H work culminating as a National Dairy Winner. Tobacco, raising livestock for show and sale, milking cows, and the trifecta of grain crops - soybeans, corn, & wheat - all helped to pave his way to a degree in Agriculture from the University of Tennessee. Marks followed in the footsteps of his father, cousin and other family members and joined the Alpha Kappa Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho. After graduating, Marks went to work for Procter & Gamble in their Customer Business Development division, which eventually led him to pursue an M.B.A in Finance and Strategy from Vanderbilt University.  Marks now lives in San Francisco and is the CEO and Founder of Spade Gardens & Landscaping. He recently started this company with the idea of providing creative and innovative outdoor living solutions for residential and commercial clients in San Francisco and the Bay area. Ben has over 30 years of combined experience in the horticultural and agricultural industries, along with a multitude of corporate environments.

     Dipal has been named as the new Regional Vice President for the South Central Region. This region includes all chapters in Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana.

     Chaudhari has been working for Monsanto since he graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2007. Monsanto is a sustainable agriculture company that delivers agricultural products to support farmers all around the world. He started as a field sales trainee and quickly advanced to becoming a territory manager. He is now the Asgrow Brand Manager for Monsanto and plans to continue developing personally and professionally which will lead him to a commercial region.

     Dipal lives in Weldon Spring, Missouri with his wife, Brittany and two sons, Jayden and Jackson. He spends most of his free time getting involved with his son’s sports, school, and anything outdoors. He is also supporter of FFA and all farmers through his work with Monsanto

    

 

 ALPHA KAPPA HOSTS AGR NATIONAL BOARD

 

     Alpha Kappa had the honor of hosting all three AGR National Foundation boards in Knoxville on Nov 12, 2015.  The boards were here for one of their annual meetings but we were lucky to have the Housing Resource Trust board visit us.  We had the opportunity to let them see what we are planning for the house addition/renovation and capital campaign.  This is important because they could back a loan for us in the amount of $300K to $400K.  This might allow us to start construction in the spring of 2016.   We will have a meeting with UT in early December and then can go back to the Housing Board to see if they will help.  Members of the National Board 

are pictured above visiting the chapter house during their visit to  (Knoxville and UT.  

     We picked part of the boards at 8:15 at the downtown Crown Plaza hotel and brought them to the house.  We had a presentation by Dean Beyl, Chancellor of CASNR.  We then had a presentation by a UT facility member form Fraternity/Sorority affairs.   Both spoke highly of AGR.  This was followed by a tour of the main and AG campuses.   Lunch was provided at the Fraternity house before taking the board back to hotel.   On that night, Alpha Kappa hosted a reception at the Crown Plaza hotel where we provided the food and a cash bar.  To say the least, the boards were very impressed by the participation of our undergraduates in all the activities on campus.  I would say that we are currently among the top chapters nationwide but we must keep up the good work of our undergraduates and the support that the alumni provide in order to remain in the top tier.  

     AGR National Board members attending were Cal Willemssen, National Board Grand President and retired VP of First National Bank of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Jack Britt, National Director and former VP of Agriculture at the University of Tennessee and consultant, Keith Bjerke, National Director and a retired VP for University Relations at North Dakota State University, Bernie Staller, National Director and former Chief Operating Officer of the National FFA; Donald Steed, National Director and co-owner of Thompson, Steed LLC, Gene Lemon, Alpha Gamma Rho Legal Counsel and President of J & CL, Inc., Tracey Binkley, National Director and Financial Advisor with Morgan Stanley; Jared Biciolis, National Board Undergraduate Director and Noble Ruler of Alpha Pi Chapter, and Phil Josephson, Executive Director of Alpha Gamma Rho

  Alpha Kappa alums attending the reception  were  Doug Craig, Charlie Goan, Dwane Bell, Bill Coley, Bond Jones, Keith Barber, Ken Alley, and Kirk Huddleston.

 

FIVE AGRs GRADUATE FALL 2015

     Five Alpha Kappa brothers graduated in December from UT.  We congratulate them on their hard work and wish them good fortune in the future.  These five new alumni are highlighted below:

     Evan Beech, AKSN 1129- Pulaski, TN. Evan has graduated with a degree in Political Science with plans  to pursue a career in banking. During his time as an undergrad, Evan served in many positions within the brotherhood, including Assistant Social Chair, Alumni-Undergraduate Liaison, Smokey’s Howl Coach for four years and most notably the longest serving kitchen manager in Alpha Kappa history. He was initiated into AGR the Fall 2011.

     Nick Nadeau, AKSN-1138, Hillsboro, TN; Construction Science.  He was Vice President, UT  Construction Science Club, AGC Student Chapter. Nick was VNR-Management in 2013. Nick was initiated into AGR in Fall 2011.


     Jonathan Pulley, AKSN 1142- Dallas, GA. Jonathan has graduated with a degree in Spanish World Business and is currently participating in the Management Training Program with Sherwin-Williams During his time in AGR he was awarded the New Member of the Year Spring 2012 and Most Improved GPA Fall 2014. He was initiated into AGR the Spring 2012.

     Brandon Atkins, AKSN1147- Stroudsville, TN. Brandon has graduated with a degree in Agricultural Business and is currently farming in Stroudsville. During his time as an undergrad, Brandon served AGR as the usher of the chapter. On campus, Brandon was engaged in the Agriculture Business club. He was initiated into Alpha Kappa Fall 2012.

     Billy Rochelle, AKSN-1158,Nunnelly, TN. Billy graduated with a degree in Food & Agriculture Business and is a fulltime farmer.  Billy had the Highest AGR GPA in Spring 2014. He was named as 2014 Outstanding Junior and 2015 Outstanding Senior in UT’s Food & Ag Business Department.  Billy served a CASNR Ambassador for 2013, 2014 and 2015. In 2014, Billy was named as receiptant of one of the Prof Lidvall Endowment Scholarships.  Billy served the brotherhood as Risk Management Chair. On campus, Billy participated in the Student Alumni Association, Emerging Leaders, Collegiate 4-H, a member of the Dairy Challenge team, and was a Farm Credit Scholar. Billy placed 1st in the Dairy Challenge and was awarded AGR Outstanding Junior and Outstanding Senior. Billy was initiated Fall 2012.

 

 

 

AGR GRADUATES 8 BROTHERS IN DECEMBER 2014

Eight Alpha Gamma Rho brothers graduated from UT in December 2014.  We are proud of these young men and their accomplishments:

• Dustin Kendall (AKSN-1099), Paris, TN. graduated with a degree in Supply Chain

Management with a collateral in international business. Dustin plans on going to work with Georgia Pacific as a procurement specialist in Tallahassee, Florida. Dustin served as VNR Activities and assistant social chairman during his time at Alpha Kappa. Dustin has been involved with the Council of Supply Chain Management specialists and FBLA while at the University of Tennessee pursuing his undergraduate degree.

• Matthew McDurmon (AKSN 1100), Paris, TN. graduated with a degree in Food

Science and Technology with a pre-professional concentration. Matthew plans on returning home to begin a job as full-time Physical Therapist technician until beginning Physical Therapy school at either UT Memphis or ETSU. Matthew currently works for the UT Football Sports Medicine team as a Sports Medicine Student Assistant where he attends games and practices as he serves as a physical therapist for the players.

• Hayden Kelly (AKSN–1105), Waynesboro, TN. graduated  with a degree in Food

& Ag Business, Hayden is currently pursuing a career with an international grain distributor. Hayden has been involved in a leadership positions at Alpha Kappa by serving as the 2011 Assistant Recruitment Chair. Hayden has also been involved with organizations on campus such as UT Ducks Unlimited and the Agriculture Business club. Hayden will also be the first person in his family to graduate from the University of Tennessee.

• Steven Martin (AKSN-1107), Seymour, TN. graduated with a degree in Civil

Engineering, Steven will be moving to Nashville to begin a career with Professional Service Industries starting as a graduate engineer. Steven plans to continue his education during employment to obtain his Masters degree and an MBA. Steven has been involved largely involved with happenings at Alpha Kappa while serving as VNR Scholarship, Standards Board, and also receiving the New Member of the year award. Steven has also been very involved on campus with ACE, IFC, and the American Society of Engineers.

• Andrew Robinson (AKSN-1116), Columbia, TN. graduated with a degree in Supply

Chain Management, Andrew plans on participating in a co-op with Georgia Pacific. Andrew has been very involved with different organizations all around campus with the Phi Sigma Theta Honor Society, FBLA, NAMA, Ag Econ Club, and UT Athletic Marketing team manager. Andrew has also worked for the UT Ground Crew.

• Joe Shapiro (AKSN-1112), Columbia, TN graduated with a degree in Supply Chain

Management, Joe plans on going to pursue a career with JB Hunt serving as an Operations Supervisor. On campus, Joe has been involved with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. Joe has also been very successful athletically at Alpha Kappa as he has been the SAE Boxing Champion for the past three years.

• Christian Greene (AKSN-1115), Columbia, TN. graduated with degree in Sports

Management, Christian plans to take little time to see some of the country before pursuing a career in his field of interest. Christian has interned for the University of Tennessee Director of Baseball operations and also worked for the University grounds crew.

• Michael Pitts (AKSN-1132), Memphis, TN. graduated with a degree in

Communication Studies, Michael has accepted a position with Northwestern Mutual as a financial representative. During his undergraduate career here at Alpha Kappa, Michael served as VNR Activities.

 

 

UT AGR CHAPTER CAPTURES HONORS

AT 63rd AGR NATIONAL CONVENTION

     Alpha Kappa was well represented at the 63rd AGR National Convention in Indianapolis on July 31 – August 3, 2014.  In attendance were actives Noble Ruler Josh Thompson, AKSN-1134, Sam Koeshall, AKSN-1190, and John Edwards, AKSN-1192, Alumni President Ken Alley, AKSN-296, Advisors Joe Harrison, AKSN-111, and Doug Craig, AKSN-280, Regional Vice President Tracey Binkley, AKSN-736, and alumni Larry McCraney, AKSN-353, and Thomas White, AKSN-725.

     Advisor Joe Harrison received the Highest Honor – Advisors Awards as the top advisor in the nation, and Alpha Kappa received the Sleeter Bull Award as the most improved chapter in the nation.  Furthermore, Alpha Kappa received Gold Chapter Status overall and received Highest Honor for Crescents – Series. 

     Brother Harrison has served as an AGR advisor at Tennessee since 2002 and will retire as Senior Chapter Advisor at the end of 2014. 

     Tracey Binkley served as Master of Ceremonies for the Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony where David Van Wert (Iowa State), Keith Bjerke (North Dakota State) and Ole Meland (Cal Poly-SLO) were inducted into the AGR Hall of Fame.  Cal Wilhemmson (South Dakota State) was inducted as the new National Grand President, and Sam Houston State was voted in as AGR’s 71st chapter (Gamma Epsilon).  Dr. Dwight Armstrong, Chief Operating Officer of the National FFA Organization, was initiated into the fraternity.

UT AGR CHAPTER AWARDED GOLD CHAPTER STATUS

     Alpha Kappa Chapter was among a select group of AGR chapters to be awarded Gold Chapter Status for 2014 at the 63rd AGR Convention in August.  2014 was the third consecutive year for Alpha Kappa to receive Gold Status. 

      Gold Chapter Status is rewarded to a chapter if they meet certain criteria in six of these seven areas: Academic Excellence, Livelong Membership Development, Alumni Relations, Chapter Crescents, Recruitment, Chapter Website, and Promise and Values. 

     AGR continues to excel not only on the UT Campus but also at the National level. 

 

13 AGRS GRADUATE MAY 2014

     Thirteen Alpha Kappa brothers graduated in May from UT.  We congratulate them on their hard work and wish them good fortune in the future.  These thirteen new alumni are highlighted below:

· Tyler Campbell, AKSN 1065- Loudon, TN. Tyler obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology. He is currently working in Research Assistance in Plant Sciences at UT and applying for Graduate Programs. For AGR, he was the Historian and Co-philanthropy Chair. Tyler was also a member of the Young Republicans Club as he worked as a research assistant.  Tyler was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2008.

· Scott Adkins, AKSN 1076- Cedar Hill, TN. Scott received a degree in Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications with a concentration in AG Science along with a minor in Ag Business. Scott plans to continue working on the family farm for the time being, then start a job correlating his degree. Scott was the VNR Planning and Usher during his time at UT.  Scott was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2009.

· Adam Hodges, AKSN 1093- Soddy Daisy, TN. Adam received a degree in Accounting and plans to attend UT for Grad School for accounting. During his time at the University, he was a member of the AG Business Club and Beta Alpha Psi while holding offices as AGR Alumni Relations and Risk Management.  Adam was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2010.

· Eric Hardeman, AKSN 1096- Water Town, TN. Eric received a degree in Supply Chain and plans to move back to the Nashville area to work at Nisan. During his years as a member of Alpha Kappa, Hardeman was the Greek Week Chair and Relay for Life Chair.  Eric was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2010.

· Nick Wendenon, AKSN 1097- Memphis, TN. Nick received a degree in Supply Chain Management , and plans on starting a career in FBGM. Nick was a Welcome Week Leader and a member of the AGR Trap Shooting team.  Nick was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2010.

· Ethan Gossett, AKSN 1102- Franklin, TN. Ethan obtained a Degree in Animal Science and plans to take more courses in the fall when he will apply for Vet School. Until then, he plans to continue farming. Ethan was a member of the Block and Bridle club, House Manager, and lead Homecoming for AGR.  Ethan was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2010.

· Grant Davis, AKSN 1104- Shelbyville, TN. Grant received a degree in Biosystems Engineering and plans to go to UT Law School and attempt to get in the legal field with a possible Masters in Public Policy. While at UT, Grants was involved with the Student Government Association where he was Student Services Director, a CASNR Senator for  two years, in Government Affairs for four years, and lead student fees/ Student Freedom campaign against Stacey Campfield. Grant was an Alternative Fall Break Trip Leader, Honors Council Class Representative for four years, Honors Council Treasurer, and Honors Ambassador. He was a member of Mortar Board, Tau Beta Pi, Gamma Sigma Delta, and he won the International Fountain Wars Engineering Designing Competition for the American Society for Agricultural and Biological engineers.  Grant was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2010.

· Taylor Greene, AKSN 1114- Culleoka, TN. Taylor obtained a Degree in Supply Chain Management and plans to start a career in that sector. He was a Council Member in the Council of Supply Chain Management while attending UT.  Taylor was initiated into AGR in the Winter of 2011.

· Matthew Layne, AKSN 1120- Columbia, TN. Matt got a degree in Plant Science and will be working at Georgia Tech for management of Sports Fields and facilities.  Matthew was initiated into AGR in the Winter of 2011.

· Andrew Russell, AKSN 1127- Loudon, Tn. Andrew majored Animal Science with a Bioscience concentration. He plans to work for a production company in the animal industry. While in school, Andrew was on the NAMA Marketing team and a member of the Pre-Vet Association.  Andrew was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2011.

· Cody Fox, AKSN 1128- Greeneville, TN. Cody received a Bachelors in History and plans to be attending Law School at the University of Cincinnati. He was a member of Unite, the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Clinic Vols, and Golden Key.  Cody was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2011.

· Zach Hensley, AKSN 1141- Goose Creek, SC. Zach received a degree in Nuclear Engineering.  Zack will be entering Office Candidate School in the United States Navy.  Zach was initiated into AGR in the Winter of 2012.

· Joshua Goode, AKSN 1154- Polk County, TN. Josh received a Political Science and Informational Sciences Degree and will pursue entrepreneurship. Josh was the president of Students for Liberty, Member of the Dean Advisory Board of Technology, Student advisor of the Office of Informational Technology, and served AGR in offices for Risk Management and Technology.  Josh was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2012.

 

UT AGR ELECTED NATIONAL FFA SECRETARY FOR 2014

      Mitch Baker, AKSN-1160, an Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications major in the University of Tennessee College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, has been elected secretary of the national FFA organization to serve on the 2013-14 national FFA Officer team.  Mitch is from Cookeville, TN and served as a Tennessee State FFA Officer.

AGRS RECEIVE $30,000 INSCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS AT 2014PARENTS-FOUNDERS DAY

  A big crowd was on hand Sunday April 6, 2014 for AGR’s Annual Parents-Founders Day Banquet.  

     Ethan Gossett, AKSN-1102, was selected by the graduating seniors has receiptant of the Prof Cole Leadership Award and the Chapter as the Dr. J. K. Bletner Man of the Year Award.  Sam Koeshall, AKSN-1190, was selected as receiptant of the Prof Lidvall Brotherhood Award.  Evan Smith, AKSN-1126, was selected as AGR Big Man on Campus. 

2014 Parents-Day Founders Scholarship Winners

Back Row Left to Right: Sam Koeshall, Tanner Pritchett, Casey Goins, Reid McCullough, Brandon Adkins, Mathew McDurmon, and Bryan Agee.     

 

2014 Parents-Day Founders Awards Winners

From left to right: Hayden Kelly (Most improved GPA), Sam Koeshall (Prof Lidvall), Evan Smith (Big Man on Campus), Ethan Gossett (Dr. Bletner and Prof Cole), Evan Willis (Highest new guy GPA and New Member award), Jay Robinson (Most improved GPA)

       

Scholarship Winners are listed below:

AGR Professional Promise: Kevin Coggin, Douglas Wong and Bryan Agee                                                          

Prof. Lidvall Alpha Gamma Rho Endowment: Billy Rochelle, Tanner Pritchett, Samuel Koeshall, Scott Adkins

AGR Alumni Scholarship: Spencer Jones

AGR National Scholarship: Emery Chaple

H. Charles Goan Endowment: J. Elliott B. Reynolds

John Dale Moss Endowment: Tyler Fuqua, Evan Smith

Dr. J. K. Bletner Alpha Gamma Rho Endowment: Forrest Duncan 

R. Dan Culp AGR Leadership: Josh Thompson

Hall-Estes Scholarship: Casey Goins

Alpha Gamma Rho Scholarship Fund (in memory of Steve Hamblen)Reid McCullough

John Marks Scholarship: Robert Gipson

Lucy R. Henry Memorial Scholarship: Matthew McDurmon        

 

AGR ELECTED IFC PRESIDENT

Evan Smith, AKSN-1126, a junior  majoring in Accounting from Paris, Tennessee has been elected 2014 UT Interfraternity Council President. 

     Brother Smith was elected President of the governing body of UT fraternities at the end of Fall Semester 2013.  His leadership will be key in the face of many challenges ahead for UT’s fraternity system.            

      Evan was AK Noble Ruler in 2013 and served last year as IFC Director of Recruiting.  He is also an UT Ambassador.

WINTER RUSH NETS SIXTEEN NEW BROTHERS!

2014 WINTER NEW GUYS

Front Row: Alec Groome, Andrew Futrell, Mathew Shih, Vincent Ruggeri, Colton Smith, and Zach Fox.

Middle Row: Zack Duncan, Andrew Dulac, Anderson Taylor, Matt Hotsinpiller, and Chase McGhee.

Back Row: Robin Ferguson, John Edwards, Landon Donkin, Andrew Morris, and Jared Bruhin.

      Winter Rush at AGR exceeded all expectations with 16 UT students signing bids.  The recruitment plan VNR-Recruitment Conner Villas and his assistants put into place netted the largest group of new AGRs for Winter Rush ever, and possibly the largest New Member Class for a fraternity at UT during Winter Semester Rush.

      Conner and the chapter followed the AGR Recruitment Textbook page-by-page by inviting potential AGRs to the house before Rush started January 14 to watch football and basketball games, hang out with brothers and a group was taken out to dinner one night.  Conner and his assistants utilized  “brick-by-brick” recruitment foundation that has been in place at 1840 for a number of years that emphasizes inviting guys over during the semester and building friendships and relationships.  (For example, AGR initiated 13 brothers in Winter 2013 and 11 brothers in 2011.)

     AGR continues to recruit quality young men during the Semester, building on the foundation already in place at 1840. 

     Plans are being made for Summer recruitment. If you have the name of a potential AGR, please contact Conner Villas at 1-704-421-1635 or cvillas@utk.edu.  Referring a young for AGR membership is a big, big plus in recruitment.

     The Winter New Member Class:

AKSN-1191    Anderson Taylor; Paris, TN; Computer Science

AKSN-1192    John Edwards; Speedwell, TN; Animal Science

AKSN-1193    Colton Smith; McNairy, TN; Chemistry

AKSN-1194    Landon Donkin; Springfield, TN; Construction Science

AKSN-1195    Andrew Dulac; Queenstown, MD; Animal Science

AKSN-1196    Robin Ferguson; Fort Mill, SC; Logistics

AKSN-1197    Jared Bruhin; Sevierville, TN; Animal Science. Jared is the nephew of Louis Buck, AKSN-558.                

AKSN-1198    Andrew Futrell;  Harriman, TN; Civil Engineering    

AKSN-1199    Matthew Shih; Knoxville, TN; Food Science

AKSN-1200    Vincent Ruggeri; Westchester, PA; Natural Resources and Environmental Economics

AKSN-1201    Zach Fox; Knoxville, TN; Plant & Soil Sciences

AKSN-1202    Matt Hotsinpiller; Mt. Juliet, TN; Business

AKSN-1203    Zack Duncan; Mt. Juliet, TN; Political Science

AKSN-1204    Alec Groome; Mt. Juliet, TN; Kinesiology

AKSN-1205    Andrew Morris; Lexington, TN; Plant Sciences. Andrew is the son of UTM AGR Mark Morris

AKSN-1206    Chase McGhee; Sevierville, TN; Kinesiology

 

AGR GRADUTES SEVEN IN DECEMBER 2013!

     Seven Alpha Kappa brothers graduated in December from UT.  We congratulate them on their hard work and wish them good fortune in the future.  These seven brothers are:

• Trey McAdams, AKSN 1080 - Brownsville, TN. Trey has graduated with a degree in Marketing with plans to move to Nashville and work in the Insurance business. During his time as an undergrad, Trey was VNR- Activities was on the AGR Standards Board. On campus, Trey was a part of All Campus Events, SGA Traditions committee, Phi Sigma Theta, and Emerging Leaders. Trey was a UTK Ambassador and Smokey’s Handler for 2011 and 2012 during his time at UT. Trey was initiated into AGR in the  Fall 2009.  Trey was selected by the Chapter in 2013 as AGR Big Man on Campus.

• Carson Bone, AKSN 1081 –Columbia, TN. Carson has started working with Proton  Power after getting a degree in Biosystems Engineering. Carson had a fun time in the fraternity being the Songleader and was involved on campus with the ASAB Engineering Society. Carson was initiated into AGR in  Fall 2009.

•  Will Batey, AKSN 1082- Williamsport, TN. After getting his undergraduate degree in Construction Science, Will plans on going to graduate school in the fall. Will served as the AGR Noble Ruler in 2012, Assistant house Manager in 2011, and Homecoming Chair in 2011, 2012, and 2013. On campus, Will was Vice president of the Construction Science club in 2012 and Secretary/Treasurer of the Ag business club from 2011 to 2012. He was also a part of the NAMA Team and Mortarboard society,  Will was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2009.  In 2011, Will was selected by the Chapter as receiptant of the Prof Lidvall Brotherhood Award and in 2013 he was selected as receipt of both the Prof Cole Man of the Year and Dr. J.K. Bletner Leadership Award.
• Ty Hunt, AKSN 1101-LaVerge, Tennessee. Ty graduated with an Animal Science/Pre Veterinary degree and plans to go onto vet school.  Ty was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2010.

• Austin Childress, AKSN 1106- Lewisburg, TN. Austin graduated with a degree in Food Science and technology/ Pre-Pharmacy. Austin will continue onto Pharmacy school in the fall, probably at UT. He was a member of the Pharmacy Club, Chemistry Club, and the National Society for Collegiate Scholars. In AGR, Austin served as the Greek Week chair. Austin is the son of George Childress AKSN-359.  Austin was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2010.
• Andy Gwinn, AKSN 1121–Nashville, TN. Andy graduated with a Logistics degree and will start working for Ferguson Enterprise on January 6^th. Andy served as the Assistant Philanthropy Chair for AGR his Sophomore year and was involved with Supply Chain Management on campus. Andy was initiated into AGR in January 2011.

• Tyler Baldridge, AKSN 1122-Old Hickory, TN. Tyler has started working with Lee Company in Nashville after getting his degree in Construction Science. Tyler was a part of the Construction Science Club and often found himself in charge of AGR security.  Tyler was initiated into AGR in January 2011.

AGR WINS HOMECOMING 2013!

On Saturday, Nov. 9, 2013, the University of Tennessee Volunteers struggled with an unfortunate 55-23 loss to the Auburn Tigers. Prior to Saturday’s game, however, the actives of Alpha Kappa were busy competing in the All-Campus Events’ Homecoming Challenge. We are happy to report that the overall Homecoming Champion trophy has returned to its home at 1840! This year we partnered with the lovely ladies of Zeta Tau Alpha under the theme of “Cirque de Rocky Top.”

     While a sold-out Neyland Stadium and an ESPN audience watched the homecoming results, we received the great news that AGR/ZTA won 1st place in Soap Box Derby, Lawn Display and Window Display, and 2^nd place in Large Float and Large Banner. With Brother Will Batey leading the Homecoming Committee this year and with the dedicated work of many brothers, Alpha Kappa was well represented to the Volunteer community.

As a chapter, we are very proud of our accomplishments and look forward to a successful Homecoming next year with the ladies of Alpha Omicron Pi.             

FALL RUSH NETS 17 NEW AGRS!

2013 New Guys:

Front Row (L-R): Evan Willis, Emory Chaple, Austin Lockhart, Percy McReynolds, Phillip Bagsby, Seth Martin

Back Row (L-R): Blake French, Spencer Jones, Tanner Pritchett, Ben Jelks, Casey Anderson, David Howard, Oscar Riley-Smith, Casey Anderson, Jonah Smith, Sam Koeshall, Santiago Arbelaez

Fall Rush netted the signatures of seventeen University of Tennessee students to join Alpha Gamma Rho.  The chapter is very proud to welcome these men into AGR.  Recruitment continues at UT with several more outstanding young men considering AGR for their fraternity.  

Austin Lockhart-Communications-Brentwood, TN-Fr.

Emory Chaple-Economics-Tampa, FL-Soph.

Sam Koeshall-Plant Science, Biotech-Philadelphia, TN-Fr.

Phillip Bagsby-Plant Science, Turfgrass-Franklin, TN-Fr.

Seth Martin-Nuclear Engineering-Seymour, TN-Fr.

Casey Anderson-Civil Engineering-Thompson Station, TN-Soph.

Evan Willis-Plant Science-Hillsboro, TN-Soph.

Tanner Pritchett-Food and AG Business-Pleasant View, TN-Fr.

Casey Goins-AG Business, Hendersonville, TN-Fr.

Oscar Riley-Smith-Sports Management-Oundle, United Kingdom-Fr.

Jonah Smith-Food and AG Business-Franklin, TN-Fr.

Percy McReynolds-Plant Science, Horticulture-Knoxville, TN-Fr.

Blake French-Kinesiology-Paris, TN-Soph.

Spencer Jones-Business Mangament-Franklin,TN-Soph

Santiago Arbelaez-Biology-Hermitage, TN-Fr.

Ben Jelks-Marketing-Paris, TN-Fr.

David Hunter-Undecided-Nashville, TN-Fr

ALPHA GAMMA RHO AT UT RECEIVES HIGHEST STATUS

Alpha Kappa Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho (AGR) was recently awarded Gold Chapter Status for 2013 by the National Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity.  Gold Chapter Status is the highest ranking an AGR chapter can receive.  UT's AGR chapter was received this award based upon schoalrship, membership, activities, programing, alumni activiities and community service. 

 

UT's AGR chapter also awards for Alumni Corporation (High Honors) and its chapter newsletter, the Alpha Kappa Crescent, received Highest Honors as the Best Single issue in 2013!

ELEVEN AGRS GRADUATE MAY 2013!

• Thomas Greenlee, AKSN 1050- Rutledge, TN. Thomas graduated with a degree in Animal Science with plans to go immediately into the workforce. During his time as an undergrad, Thomas was involved with Block & Bridle, the Sheep Show Team, the Cattle Show Team, and the 2011 UT Livestock Judging Team.  Thomas was initiated into AGR Fall of 2008.

 

• Drew Patrick, AKSN 1051- Blountville, TN. Drew graduated with a degree in Environmental Soil Science with a Concentration in Construction Science. Drew is working with Integrity Management in Upstate, South Carolina in the construction industry. As an undergrad Drew served as AGR Kitchen Manager.  He was initiated into AGR Fall of 2008.  Drew is getting married in June 2013.

 

• Jimmy Greenway, AKSN 1058- Loudon, TN. Jimmy graduated with a degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Science. After college Jimmy plans to secure a research position at another university, continue on to grad school, and then single handedly take over the majority of Asia. Jimmy served one year as chapter Usher. On campus Jimmy has been involved with the Wildlife Society, Soil Judging team, Hunters for the Hungry program, Wildlife Disease Association, Young Agronomists of America, and has worked for the Plant Science Dept.  Jimmy was initiated into AGR Fall of 2008.

 

• Trevor Jackson, AKSN 1069- Pleasant View, TN. Trevor graduated with a degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. He plans to go directly into the workforce in the Nashville metro area or with the TN state government. During his tenure with the fraternity, Trevor served as the Philanthropy chair, Public Relations chair, Technology chair, and as VNR- Recruitment.  Trevor was initiated into AGR Fall of 2008.

 

•  Caleb James, AKSN 1072- Lebanon, TN. Caleb has graduated with a degree in Food and Ag Business with plans to go directly into the workforce.  He was a member of the 2011 UT Livestock Judging Team. Caleb  was initiated into AGR in April of 2009.   

 

• Ben Koch, AKSN 1073- Knoxville, TN. Ben graduated with a degree in both Logistics and Marketing and currently works as a text agent at Perfect Serve. During his time at UT, Ben has volunteered at facility services, studied abroad to study international logistics and marketing in Australia. His undergraduate career has set him up to pursue an MBA in international business in Tennessee Tech’s grad school where he also hopes to find a grad school internship next spring.  Ben was initiated into AGR in Fall of 2009.

 

• Jonathan Springer, AKSN 1075- Lebanon, TN. Jonathan graduated with a degree in Food and Ag Business with plans to go directly into the workforce.  Jonathan was initiated into AGR in Fall of 2009.

 

• Gavin Henry-1079– Cross Plains, TN. Gavin graduated with a degree in Food and Ag Business.  Gavin served AGR as VNR-Management in 2011.  He was a member of the 2012 & 2012 UT NAMA teams.  Gavin was a 2012 Tennessee Farmers Cooperative intern.  Gavin is entering grad school this fall at UT seeking a Masters in Ag Economics. Gavin was initiated into AGR in Fall of 2009.

 

• Kyle Brown, AKSN 1108- Columbia, TN. Kyle graduated with a degree in Kinesiology with plans to pursue Physical Therapy School. During his time here at UT, Kyle was a part of the Kinesiology Club.  Kyle was initiated into AGR Fall of 2010.

 

• Cory Vineyard, AKSN 1118- Friendsville, TN. Cory graduated with a degree in Food and Agricultural Business. He is headed to graduate school at UT, pursuing a Masters in Entomology and Plant Pathology with a desire to pursue a career with a company in the cotton industry. Cory was a member of the Agricultural Business Club and Ducks Unlimited. He served as AGR Kitchen Manager. Cory was initiated into AGR January of 2011.  He is also a member of the Tennessee Air National Guard.

 

•  Steven Hill, AKSN 1137– Knoxville, TN. Steven graduated with a degree in Accounting with plans to either go to grad school or to go ahead and join his family’s Accounting firm. While he spent his time with AGR, he participated two years in the SAE boxing tournament and won the Super Heavyweight Championship in 2012.  Steven was initiated in Fall of 2011.

 

AGRS RECEIVE $30,000 IN AWARDS AT 2013 PARENTS-FOUNDERS DAY

     A big crowd of parents, actives and alumni were on hand April 7 for AK’s annual Parents-Founders Day Banquet.  Scholarships and Awards totaling over $30,000 were handed out.  A list of the Scholarship and Award winners is on page 2.

     Will Batey, AKSN-1082, was selected by the active chapter as receiptant of the Chapter’s two highest leadership awards, the Prof Cole Leadership Award and the Dr. J. K. Bletner Man of the Year Award.  The Prof Cole Leadership Award is selected by graduating seniors while the Man of the Year Award is selected by the entire chapter.  Brother Batey is the first AGR to be selected to receive both awards the same year.  Brother Evan Smith, AKSN-1126, was selected by the chapter to receive the Prof Lidvall Brotherhood Award.  This award is for the freshman or sophomore member who shows the most brotherhood and leadership.  Trey McAdams, AKSN-1080, was selected as AGR Big Man on Campus. (This award honors the active who is most involved in campus activities.) Scott Adkins, AKSN-1076, was selected as Athlete of the Year for 2013.

     AGRs were also recognized for having the highest grades (actives and new members), most improved grades, and New Member of the Semester. 

     AGR’s newest scholarship, the Gen. Charles Henry was awarded to Kevin Coggin, AKSN-1103, and the granddaughter of George Whitfield, AKSN-150. 

     The active chapter selected Brother Jim Nunn, AKSN-462, as 2013 Alumnus of the Year.  Jim served as 2010 Alumni Association President and has served as Alumni Recruitment Liaison since 2008.  He also served as Co-Chairman of the Campaign for AGR-Make A Difference.  He is a cotton broker in Brownsville, Tennessee.  Jim was initiated into AGR in January of 1974 and is a 1977 Animal Science graduate of UT.

     Alumni present at the day’s luncheon were Bill Murphy, Gene Caldwell, Bill Kemp, Max Gregory, Joe Harrison, Charlie Henry, George Whitfield, Glen Ed Newton, Charlie Goan, Ken Alley, Jerry Estes, Randle Richardson, Mark Wilson,  Jim Nunn, John Tarpley, Bill Coley, Greg Hensley, Kirk Huddleston, Randall Crowder, Louis Buck, Jeff Coggin, Reuben Buck, Tom Looney, Robert Elliott, Dipal Chaudhari, Cap Nunn, Will Mayfield, Kevin Hensley, and Kyle Hensley.     

     Special guests included Dr. Caula Beyl, Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Dr. Bill Brown, Dean of UT Ag Research, Dr. Tim Cross, Dean of UT Extension, and Dr. Keith Barber, Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement for the UT Institute of Agriculture.

 

WATER WARS RAISES $6000 FOR ST. JUDE

Brothers, my name is Hayden Bliss AKSN-1145 from Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee. As Philanthropy Chairman I had the honor of organizing and running our annual philanthropy event, Water Wars. The past April marked the seventh year Alpha Gamma Rho has put on this event benefiting St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The event started on April 17^th, with a toy drive for the children of St. Jude. Thirteen sororities participated this year. Sororities were encouraged to bring in toys to be sent to the children, and there was a very good turnout in donations. The following day was the Water Wars field games, consisting of tug-o-war, a target challenge, and a balloon toss competition. The final day of the event was April 20^th, and included the Water Wars tournament. After over six hours of competition, the ladies of Delta Gamma won both the tournament and overall awards for Water Wars VII. This year, we believe to have raised almost $6,000.00, with all of it going to St. Jude. I would like to thank both new member classes from the fall 2012, and the spring 2013 for all their hard work throughout the week. They were tasked with filling up almost 30,000 water balloons in six days, and did a tremendous job doing so. Also, thank you to former philanthropy chairman and now VNR-New Member Development Josh Thompson, AKSN 1134 for all his help throughout the process of organizing the event. Overall, Water Wars Seven marked another successful chapter in Alpha Gamma Rho’s efforts in raising money for St. Jude. 

 

 

FROM THE SIGMA KAPPA HOUSE MOTHER

My name is Jewell Tindell and I am currently the House Director for Sigma Kappa Sorority. In February I reached an agreement with Sigma Kappa Sorority to become the “NEW HOUSE DIRECTOR” for the new Sorority House in Sorority Village. The House was to open when school began in August 10, 2012. The closer it got to August, the more we knew the House was not going to be ready to open and the University of Tennessee had previously told us they would put all of our girls on one floor in a dorm on campus. When we approached the University in June, 2012, we found there were no rooms available for our girls, and we did not know where we were going to house 40 girls. On August 7, 2012, I received a call from one of the Sorority Advisors advising there was a possibility of the Sorority leasing a fraternity house, if I was willing to move into the fraternity house with the girls. The decision was made and I arrived at the FIJI House on August 10, 2012 to begin cleaning and preparing for the arrival of 40 girls. Beginning August 10, 2012, the AGR guys became my favorite “new friends”. As I was cleaning and moving, the guys routinely offered to help. When there was furniture too heavy for a house full of girls, the AGR guys were there to help. Living next door to AGR is one of the best experiences I could have dreamed about experiencing my first semester in a fraternity house. They made my first semester a better place to be. AGR cooked for my girls and me for our first night in the house, which was a great welcome to “Frat Row”. They cooked for me on numerous occasions and I looked forward to baking for them when they were having a special event, a tailgate party and recruitment. The guys have become like “my kids”. I looked forward to having the opportunity to sit on the porch and talk with the guys as they shared events going on in their life and in school. During the semester on “Frat Row” we had no television service and University of Tennessee sports are high on my priority list, so our wonderful neighbors, AGR, permitted us to watch television with them. I have told numerous people, making new friends at AGR and having the opportunity to live next door to them was two of the best things about my first semester with the Sigma Kappa Sorority.

 

WINTER RUSH OUTSTANDING! 12 NEW BROTHERS!

Winter recruitment netted eleven new brothers for Alpha Kappa Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho with initiation for 11 new brothers was held on January 28, 2013.  Joe Harrison stated that these eleven young men were among the top groups he had had the privilege to sit in on QC interviews.  Another young man signed a bid in February and he was initiated February 18, 2013.

Front (left to right): Sheridan Brewer, Collin Gatlin, Tyler Ballard, Andrew Howe, Josh Schueller

Back (left to right): Christian Burfield, Bryan Agee, Reid McCullough, Will Freeman, Andy Hickman, Ryan Brown.  Not Pictured: Dane Brunson.

• AKSN-1162 Josh Schueller; Bethel Springs, TN; Biology
• AKSN-1163 Andy Hickman; LaFollette, TN;  Accounting.  Andy is the grandson of Waymon Hickman, AKSN-116.
• AKSN-1164 Sheridan Brewer; Hohenwald, TN; Microbiology
• AKSN-1165 Reid McCullough; Hendersonville, TN; Chemistry
• AKSN-1166 Ryan Brown; Hendersonville, TN; Ag Communications
• AKSN-1167 Collin Gatlin; Mt Juliet, TN, Undecided
• AKSN-1168 Christian Burfield; Mt Juliet, TN; Ag Business
• AKSN-1169 Bryan Agee; Mt Juliet, TN; Civil Engineering
• AKSN-1170 Will Freeman; Portland, TN; Ag Communications
• AKSN-1171 Andrew Howe; Old Hickory, TN; Accounting
• AKSN-1172 Dane Brunson; Seymour, TN. Kinesiology
  

  VNR-Recruitment Elliot Reynolds and the chapter did an outstanding job coordinating Winter Rush and AGR continues to seek quality and qualified men for membership.
  

ALPHA GAMMA RHO GRADUATES THREE BROTHERS IN DECEMBER 2012. 

They are:

• Shane Vest, AKSN 1061- Charlotte, NC. Shane graduated with a degree in Finance. He has spent seven years working part time with the Pizza Hut Franchise, VESTCO, and he is now a General Manager with Pizza Hut for his dad. Shane was also assistance finance chair and VNR- Finance in 2012 along with being a member of the UT Investment Group and the Financial Management Association.  Shane was initiated in the Fall of 2009 into AGR.
• Jonathan Harrison, AKSN 1077- Watertown, TN. Jonathan graduated with a degree in Ag Business. He is now working at Farm Credit in Murfreesboro, TN. During his time at UT he served the fraternity as Noble Ruler in 2011 and VNR- Membership Development in 2012. He was also involved with UT Block & Bridle, UT Agri-Business Club – President, and UT NAMA.  He also served as a Smoker’s Handler in 2012. Jonathan is the son of Keith Harrison, AKSN-619, and was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2009.
• Will Dalton, AKSN 1090– Danville, VA. Will graduated with a degree in Ag Science. He is now working as a beef farmer and a truck driver. Throughout his time at UT, Will spent time with FFA and a member of the 2011 UT Livestock Judging Team. Will was a junior college transfer and was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2010.

RUSH: LATE SPRING AND FALL 2012  

We have had an excellent year so far in recruitment.  We initiated two young men towards the end of the spring semester and sixteen men at the beginning of this fall.  Fall rush this year was quite different than in previous years. Fraternity rush was on the same week as sorority rush this year.  It was also during welcome week.  This proposed an unusual obstacle this year, due to the fact that there was not the usual two weeks of school before bid day.  This cut down a lot of the guys that went through rush and their time going to see all the fraternities.  We were able to get through this obstacle with a very active summer recruitment and hard work from all the brothers during rush week.  We could have not done as well without the whole Fraternity’s help, and I thank them for that.  I also would like to thank the alumni for their help and recommendations.

     The group of young men we got this fall, I believe, has the utmost potential to keep this Fraternity at the level it is running at today.  I see in them the motivation and drive to grow the Alpha Gamma Rho name across both campuses.  They come from all over the state of Tennessee and from Colorado to Georgia.  This group has already been active in helping me recruit more young men for next spring and mid semester this year.  Due to their efforts and other brothers in the Fraternity, I believe a group of four or five mid semester initiations is possible. 

     Formal rush may be over, but as an Alpha Gamma Rho brother, you know that recruitment never stops.  We continue to recruit potential brothers year round, as this is the key to fill our brotherhood with the highest quality members.  If any alumni, or anyone else, have any potential recruits or recommendations for me, then please send me their contact information. 

     Please feel free to contact me anytime. 

Kevin Coggin kcoggin1@utk.edu (931) 309-040

   Our 18 new brothers are

     Late Spring:

L-R: Ethan Masaro, Cameron Beasley

• AKSN-1143 Cameron Beasley, Kinesiology, Hohenwald, Tn.

• AKSN-1144 Ethan Massaro, Accounting, Maryville, Tn.

    

Fall 2012 Initiates: Standing: Trent Bibee, Hayden Bliss, Isaac Britt, Brandon Adkins, Kolton Huckaby, Jake Sproul, Corey Powell, Jay Robinson, Forrest Duncan, Joshua Goode, Brennan Lytle, Billy Rochelle.

 Seated: Connor Villas, Alex Killebrew, Ryan Daniel, Mitch Baker

      The Fall initiates are:

• AKSN-1145 Hayden Bliss; Freshman; Soddy Daisy, Tn.; Economics
• AKSN-1146 Connor Villas; Freshman; Charlotte, N.C.; Marketing
• AKSN-1147 Brandon Adkins; Freshman; Cedar Hill, Tn.; Accounting; brother of Scott & Glen Adkins
• AKSN-1148 Trent Bibee; Freshman; Cedar Hill, Tn.; Business
• AKSN-1149 Ryan Daniel; Junior; Bolivar, Tn.; Transfer from Jackson State CC; Biology
• AKSN-1150 Kolton Huckaby; Freshman; Columbia, Tn.; Animal Science.  Brother of Christian Greene
• AKSN-1151 Isaac Britt; Freshman; Columbia, Tn.; Accounting
• AKSN-1152 Alex Killebrew; Freshman; Atlanta; Undecided
• AKSN-1153 Jay Robinson; Freshman; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Marketing
• AKSN-1154 Joshua Goode; Junior; Polk County, Tn.; Political Science
• AKSN-1155 Jake Sproul; Freshman; Santa Fe, TN; Undecided
• AKSN-1156 Brennan Lytle; Freshman; McMinnville, Tn.; Mechanical Engineering
• AKSN-1157 Forrest Duncan; Freshman; Decherd, Tn.; Ag Business
• AKSN-1158 Billy Rochelle; Freshman; Centerville, Tn.; Food and Ag Business
• AKSN-1159 Corey Powell; Freshman; Loudon, Tn.; Turfgrass Management

• AKSN-1160 Mitchell Baker; Freshman, Cookeville, Ag Communications

AGRS, SMOKEY, & ESPN GAME DAY

     AGR was part of ESPN’s Game Day September 15, 2012 when ESPN visited the UT Campus for its weekly Saturday college football program.

     This was ESPN’s first visit to the UT campus for Game Day since 2004.

     Senior Handler Trey McAdams was shown picking Smokey up and placing him on the podium in front of the ESPN hosts as Lee Corso made his prediction that the Vols would defeat Florida. 

     Pictured with Lee Corso are the 2012 Smokey’s Handlers (L-R): Jonathan Harrison, Food and Ag Business, Watertown, Tennessee; Trey McAdams, Marketing, Brownsville, Tennessee, Bert White, Advertising, Pulaski, Tennessee, and Evan Betterton, Environmental Economics, Cookeville, Tennessee. 

 

KEVIN HENSLEY RECEIPTANT OF 2012 EXTRAORDINARY CAMPUS LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE HONOR

     Kevin Hensley AKSN-1052 who graduated from UT in May 2012 with a degree in Food and Ag Business, was a receiptant of the 2012 Extraordinary Campus Leadership & Service award at the UT Chancellor's Honors Banquet held in April 2012.  While at UT, Kevin served AGR's Noble Ruler in 2010 and as president of UT's Ag Ambassadors.  Kevin is the son of Greg Hensley AKSN-536 and works for the Tennessee Farm Bureau as a Regional Field Services Director in East Tennessee.

 

 

ALPHA GAMMA RHO GRADUATES 15 MAY 2012!

     Graduation this spring will see a large number of Alpha Kappa members receive there diplomas and move on to the next chapter in their lives.  We congratulate these 15 brothers and wish them well in the future.

• Michael Culley, AKSN 1033– Paris, TN. Michael is graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and plans to return to Paris to work with his family’s mechanical contracting business, Ellis Heating Co.  He has been the VNR – Activities, the VNR – Membership Development, and served on the recruitment and philanthropy committees. Michael was also Smokey’s Handler for two years.  He was selected by the chapter as the 2009 winner of the Lidvall Brotherhood Award.  He is also a member of Pi Tau Sigma Mechanical Engineering Society.
• Whit Shofner, AKSN 1035 – Manchester, TN.  Whit will graduate in May with a degree in Civil Engineering with plans to attend Medical School.  He served Alpha Kappa as Noble Ruler in 2009 and as VNR-Recruitment in 2010.  Whit also is a member of the Greek honorary organization Order of Omega, Chi Epsilon engineering honor society, American Society of Civil Engineers, and was IFC Judicial Affairs Vice President in 2011.  Whit was also selected as the 2010 Dr. J. K. Bletner Man of the Year and in 2011 as Big Man on Campus.  He also served as AK Carnicus chair. 
• Kevin Jones, AKSN 1040– Manchester, TN. Kevin is graduating with a degree in Finance. Upon graduation, he intends to enroll in graduate school to pursue a master’s degree in architecture. Kevin was also the VNR – Activities in 2010.
• Robert George, AKSN 1041– Manchester, TN.  Robert is graduating with a degree in Food and Agricultural Business. He served as the VNR – Recruitment in 2010 and VNR – Member Development in 2011.  Robert was named AGR Athlete of the Year in 2010. 
• Bobby Ashby, AKSN 1048 – Paris, TN. Bobby is graduating with a degree in Marketing and Logistics. He has been the VNR – Scholarship and VNR – Finance in 2011.
• Kevin Hensley, AKSN 1052 – City, TN. Kevin is graduating with a degree in Food and Agricultural Business. Kevin served as Noble Ruler in 2010.  He is a Mortar Board member, the Collegiate 4-H Social Chair, and President of CASNR Ambassadors. In 2011, he was a Tennessee Legislative Intern and did an internship with the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation.  He is the son of Greg Hensley AKSN-536.
• Robert Moser, AKSN 1053–Clarksville, TN. Robert is graduating with a degree in Turfgrass Science and Management. Robert served as Smokey’s Handler in 2010 and 2011.  He is a member of the Greek honorary society, Order of Omega.  He plans to work for a premier league soccer team in Europe. Robert has also been the VNR – Scholarship.  Robert was the receiptant of the first AGR Professional Scholarship in 2010 and received the John Long Marks Scholarship in 2011. 
• Ben Lee, AKSN 1055 – Madisonville, TN. Ben is graduating with a degree in Food and Agricultural Business. He plans to continue to work for the USDA in Rural Development. Ben has also been the chaplain.  Ben is the son of James Lee, AKSN-481.
• Kyle Hensley, AKSN 1062– Lenoir City, TN. Kyle is graduating with a degree in Food and Agricultural Business. He plans to enroll in graduate school or jump right into the job market. Kyle was the VNR – Alumni Relations for two years, 2010 and 2011, and is also a university ambassador. He is the son of Greg Hensley AKSN-536.
• Jacob Watson, AKSN 1064– Loudon, TN. Jacob is graduating with a degree in Environmental and Soil Science. He plans to attend grad school following graduation.  Jacob has been the VNR – Planning, VNR – Membership Development, and Chaplain.  Jacob was also a member of the 2011 UT Soils Judging Team.  In 2011, Jacob was selected by the Chapter as the winner of the Dr. J. K. Bletner Man of the Year and was the receipt of the John Dale Moss Scholarship in 2011. 
• John Schultz, AKSN 1066– Dyersburg, TN. John is graduating with a degree in Food and Agricultural Business. He plans to attend graduate school at the University of Missouri to pursue a master’s degree in plant science. John is also a member of Block & Bridle where he was the Round Up chair. He is currently the Director’s Chair for All Campus Events.  John was selected for membership in Gamma Sigma Delta agriculture honorary fraternity in 2010.  John was also named as an Outstanding CASNR Student in 2009, 2010, and 2011. 
• Clayton Mitchell, AKSN 1070– Jackson, TN. Clayton is graduating with a degree in Food and Agricultural Business. He plans to work in the Country music or entertainment industry in a management position. He is a member of the UT Block & Bridle where he has been on the fundraising committee, the new member marshal, and webmaster. He is also in the Ag-Econ club where he is the reporter. Clayton is the son of Mike Mitchell, AKSN 562.
• Will Hightower, AKSN 1071– Lebanon, TN. Will is graduating with a degree in Animal Science with a minor in Food and Agricultural Business. He is a member of the UT Block & Bridle club where he has been President and Round Up Chair. Upon graduation, he plans to work at Tyson Food.
• Patrick Block, AKSN 1086– Charlotte, NC. Patrick is graduating with a degree in Marketing and is the former VNR – Scholarship. Patrick is currently in the job market.  Patrick was a receiptant of a Prof Lidvall scholarship in 2011. 
• Michael Ford, AKSN 1098– Lenoir City, TN. Michael is graduating with a degree in Accounting and plans to franchise a UPS Store. He was the Technology Chair in 2011. Michael was a receiptant of a Prof Lidvall scholarship in 2011. 

ALPHA GAMMA RHO GRADUATES ONE IN DECEMBER 2011

Taylor Blount, AKSN-1045, Chattanooga, Tennessee, graduated in December 2011 with a degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management with a collateral in Marketing.  Taylor has accepted a job with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF) as a Trainmaster in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He will be in Fort Worth, TX for 16 weeks prior to the job undergoing training at their corporate headquarters.

 

AGR INITIATES 22 NEW BROTHERS in 2011/12!

Rush was very successul for AGR at UT in 2011/12.  22 young men accepted bids and have been inititated into our chapter, giving us 1144 initiates during the 61+ years of our chapter's existance.  AGR has a long standing tradition of recruiting only the highest caliber of young men. Fall semester we continued that tradition with the addition of 18 outstanding brothers followed by the initiation of four additonal men during the winter of 2012. This puts our chapter presently at 88 undergraduate members at the end of Spring Semester 2012. This allows us to be as selective in choosing the gentlemen we decide to extend bids into our fraternity. And it is because of this selectivity that our chapter brings in only the best men to continue the excellence we demonstrate in all that we do. The newest brothers of Alpha Kappa have, to a man, all acclimated to the fraternity and to the older brothers. They all have found and are continuing to find their way to contribute to the workings of our order. We have brought in young men with many talents and backgrounds, from the State President of the high school level Future Business Leaders of America to several National contending trap and field competitors and All-State athletes. A diverse group of the best young men we can find is what is and what will continue to make Alpha Kappa a top chapter in the nation for many years to come.

FALL 2011 "NEW GUYS"

Front: Josh Thompson, Tyler Fuqua, Will Seeley, Cody Fox, Andrew Russell, Blake Richmond, Michael Pitts

Middle: John Mankin, Doug Wong, Joseph Rackley, Robbie Gipson, Evan Beech, Stephen Hill, Evan Huskey,

Back: Reed Wolfe, Elliot Reynolds, Nick Nadeau, Evan Smith

 

The 2011/12 new brothers are:

• · Reed Wolfe, AKSN-1123, History/Education; Manchester, TN.
• · Tyler Fuqua, AKSN-1124, Accounting; Joelton, TN.
• · Joseph Rackley, AKSN-1125, Logistics; Pulaski, TN.
• · Evan Smith, AKSN-1126, Accounting, Paris, TN.
• · Andrew Russell, AKSN-1127, Pre-Vet/ Animal Science; Loudon, TN.
• · Cody Fox, AKSN-1128, Pre-med; Greenville, TN.
• · Evan Beech, AKSN-1129, Political Science/ Pre-Law; Pulaski, TN.
• · Robbie Gipson, AKSN-1130, Civil Engineering, Manchester, TN.
• · Evan Huskey, AKSN-1131, Wildlife & Fisheries Science; Sevierville, TN.
• · Michael Pitts, AKSN-1132, Business; Memphis, TN.
• · Blake Richmond, AKSN-1133, Business; Carthage, TN.
• · Josh Thompson, AKSN-1134, English, Soddy Daisy, TN.
• · Doug Wong, AKSN-1135, Nursing; Pulaski, TN.
• · John Mankin, AKSN-1136, Plant Sciences, Murfreesboro, TN.
• · Stephen Hill, AKSN-1137, Accounting; Knoxville, TN.
• · Nick Nadeau, AKSN-1138, Civil Engineering; Hillsboro, TN.
• · Elliot Reynolds, AKSN-1139, Landscape Design & Construction; Hillsboro, TN.
• · Will Seeley, AKSN-1140, Food Science, Pleasant View, TN.  Will is the son of Billy

Seeley, AKSN-679

•   Zach Hensley, AKSN-1141, Nuclear Engineering, Summerville, South Carolina.
  
•   Jonathan Pulley, AKSN-1142, Sports Journalism, Dallas, Georgia.
  
•   Ethan Massaro, AKSN-1143, Accounting, Maryville, TN.
  
•   Cameron Beasly, AKSN-1144, Kinesiology, Hohenwald, TN.
  

 

AGR NAMED NEW UT CHANCELLOR FOR INSTITUTE OF AGRICULUTURE

 

The new Chancellor for the UT Institute of Agriculture is Dr. Larry Arrington.  Brother Arrington served as interim senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences from 2009 to 2010. Prior to that, Arrington worked in the Florida Extension Service, serving as dean from 2004 to 2009. He has worked at the University of Florida since 1981.

 Brother Arrington earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural and extension education at the University of Florida, his master’s in vocational education at the University of Georgia and his doctorate in agricultural and extension education at the Ohio State University.

 Dr. Arrington was initiated into Alpha Gamma Chapter at the University of Florida.  

2011 AGR GRADUATES

Five members of Alpha Kappa Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho completed their studies at UT this Spring and Summer and received their college degrees.

• Will Elliott, AKSN-1016, Cedar Hill, Tennessee.  Will graduates this summer with a degree in Agricultural Science.  While at UT, Will was a member of the UT Livestock Judging Team and was selected as selected as the 2011 Prof Cole Leadership Award.  Will plans to either become a Vo-Ag teacher or get a job with an Agri-Business firm. Will is the son of William Elliott, AKSN-433.

• Cap Nunn, AKSN-1017, Brownsville, Tn..  Cap graduates from UT in August with a degree in English Technical Communications.  Cap is doing an internship with WIVK Radio in Knoxville this summer with hopes of landing a job there.  While at UT, Cap worked at the UT radio station, WUTK and as a production assistant for UT football, basketball, and baseball games on ESPN and Sports South.  Cap is the son of Jim Nunn, AKSN-462.   

• Kyle Graham, AKSN-1020, Pleasant View, Tennessee. Kyle graduated from UT in May with a degree in Biochemistry and Cellular/Molecular Biology, and a minor in Business Administration with a 3.2 GPA.  Kyle served AGR as Vice Noble Ruler-Activities in 2008.  Kyle plans to go to officer candidate school with the United States Marine Corps. 

Will, Cap, and Kyle were initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2006.

• Glen Adkins, AKSN-1038, Stroudsville, Tennessee.  Glen graduated from UT in May with a degree in Food and Ag Business.  He was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2007.  Glen plans to return to Robertson County and farm.  

• Josh Hixson, AKSN-1049, Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee.  Josh graduated in May with a degree in Political Science and plans to attend the Mississippi College of Law beginning in the fall.  Josh served AGR in 2009 as Vice Noble Ruler-Management.  He was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2008. 

TWO AGRS NAMED AS OUTSTANDING STUDENTS IN THEIR CASNR DEPARTMENTS

John Schultz, AKSN-1066, a junior majoring in Food and Ag Business from Dyersburg, Tn., was named as Outstanding Junior in the Department of Food and Ag Business for 2010/11.  College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the CASNR Awards Banquet held this spring. 

     Will Batey,  AKSN-1082, was selected as Outstanding Sophomore in the Department of BioSystems Engineering and Soil Science.  Will is majoring in Construction Science and is from Columbia, Tennessee.  

AGR CHOSEN OUTSTANDING JUNIOR IN COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES

John Schultz, AKSN-1066, a junior majoring in Food and Ag Business from Dyersburg, Tn., was named as an Outstanding Junior in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the CASNR Awards Banquet this spring. In 20010, John was chosen as an Outstanding Sophomore in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

2011 SMOKEY'S HANDERS

 

One of AGR’s longest traditions has been that an AGR has been a handler of Smokey, UT’s blue tick hound mascot, since the 1970s.  Smokey leads the University of Tennessee football team onto the field for each football game.  This year’s handlers  are (L-R) Robert Moser, AKSN-1053, a Senior majoring in Turfgrass Management from Clarksville, Tn. and Trey McAdams, a Junior majoring in Marketing from Brownsville, Tennessee.

WINTER 2011 RUSH: 11 NEW BROTHERS!

The year 2011 started off on an extremely high note for the Alpha Kappa Chapter. The Inter Fraternity Council’s Recruitment Week was held January 18^th through January 20^th with the 21^st being the day the rushees received their bids. This year we initiated the biggest spring class that anyone has seen in recent memory. There were around 15 young men who were interested in Alpha Kappa and who we were interested in considering membership possibilities. Of these 15 men the chapter voted to extend a bid for initiation to 11 of them. All 11 of the young men accepted their bids and were initiated the following Thursday. This is another feat that we as a chapter are very proud of in having 100% bid acceptance. The young men were initiated on Thursday, January 27^th, the day of the 60^th Anniversary of the founding of our chapter. Not only have we recruited a large number of men, 22 in the fall and 11 in the spring, the chapter has also chosen to initiate only the highest quality of men as well. The spring class had a variety of majors represented such as Ag business, Turf Grass Management, biology, and others. We as a chapter are very excited as to what these young men are going to bring to the chapter in terms of representation and leadership within the fraternity.  

Winter 2011 “New Guys”: Seated from left to right: Front Row Left to right: Joseph Shapiro, Cory Vineyard, Hunter Morrow, Andrew Gwinn, Christian Greene, Taylor Greene.  Back Row Left to Right: Tyler Baldridge, Ian White, Joseph Snyder, Andrew Robinson, Matthew Layne, Bert White.  

TEN BROTHERS GRADUATE IN MAY 2010

• Ben Collins, AKSN-1000, Culleoka, Tn.  Ben graduated with a degree in Landscape Design Construction.  Ben will be returning home to farm and work for Arnold’s Unlimited.  Ben has the honor of being AK’s 1000th initiate in Fall 2005.  Ben was a 2008 recipient of the AGR Horticulture Scholarship. 

• Michael Millraney, AKSN-1013, Manchester, Tn.  Michael graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering.  He is employed by Fort Loudon Electric Cooperative in Vonore, Tennessee.  Michael is also getting married this summer.  He served as VNR-Management in 2007.  Michael was initiated into AGR in January of 2006. 

• Josh Jenkins, AKSN-1014, Jackson, Tn.  Josh graduated with a degree in Finance.  Josh served as VNR-Membership in 2008 and served as an Undergraduate Director on the National AGR Board of Directors in 2008.  Josh was initiated into AGR in January of 2006.  Josh is working for Efficience in Knoxville, a custom software company.

• Clay Head, AKSN-1019, Cedar Hill, Tn.  Clay graduated with a degree in History and is the son of Terry Head AKSN-479 and brother of Clint Head AKSN-943.  Clay was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2006.  Clay served as one of Smokey’s Handlers in 2008 and 2009.  In 2008, Clay received the Prof Lidvall Brotherhood Award.  He will be attending Graduate School in Education at UT in the Fall. 

• Caleb Barron, AKSN-1023, Ashland City, Tn.  Caleb graduated with a degree in Enterprise Management.  In the fall, Caleb will be entering UT Law School.  Caleb was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2006.

• Wesley Lyons, AKSN1025, Paris, Tn.  Wesley graduated with a B.S. in Animal Science and will be entering Vet School this fall at UT.  Wesley is the son of Dr. Chuck Lyons, AKSN-527.  Wesley was presented the Chancellor's Award for Extraordinary Professional Promise at the Chancellor's 2010 Honors Banquet. He also was a CASNR Senator.  Wesley was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2006.

• Will Mayfield, AKSN-1026, Pulaski, Tn.  Will graduated with a B.S. in Animal Science and will be entering graduate school at UT in Animal Science.  Will served as VNR-Recruitment in 2008 and VNR-Membership in 2009.  Will is the son of Mike Mayfield AKSN-602.  Will was selected by his fellow seniors as the recipient of the 2010 Prof Cole Leadership Award.  He was also UT Student Livestock Association President He was initiated into AGR in the Fall of 2006. 

• Daniel Hale, AKSN-1030, Seiverville, Tn.  Daniel graduated with a degree in Agricultural Economics and will pursing a Masters in Ag Econ beginning this fall.  Daniel served as VNR-Management in 2007 and is the nephew of Kyle Hale, AKSN-489.  Daniel was initiated into AGR in the January 2007.

• Justin Duncan, AKSN-1032, Seiverville, Tn.  Justin graduated with a B.S. Enterprise Management.  In the fall, Justin will be entering Lincoln Memorial University Law School in Knoxville. Justin is the son of Jon Duncan, AKSN-642.   Jon was initiated into AGR in the January 2007.

• Mac Bowers, AKSN-1037, Lenoir City, Tn.  Mac graduated with a degree in Exercise Management.  Mac was initiated into AGR in the Fall of  2007.  Mac is living and working in the Knoxville area.