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Weekend edition November 17, 2023 | Katelyn Keenehan

UTK’s grand surprise: Austin-East seniors enlisted into the Vol family

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, unveiled a thrilling surprise for 12 exceptional seniors from Austin-East Magnet High School by welcoming them into the prestigious Class of 2028.

On Friday morning, 12 seniors received the news that they had not only been accepted but also won a scholarship to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK).

As a Flagship school, Austin-East Magnet High School proudly stands among the elite institutions. The surprise wasn’t just about admissions; it was a celebration of excellence. The selected students were granted UT’s Flagship Scholarship and the state’s HOPE Scholarship. These scholarships combined will offer each of the 12 students full coverage of tuition and mandatory fees for up to eight semesters.

Introducing the Future Vols:

Tylan Baker

Admitted into Business Analytics
From the sports arena to academic excellence, Baker’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Engaged in football, basketball, and baseball at Austin-East, he’s also a Project Grad participant and a mentee of the 100 Black Men of Greater Knoxville.

Samuel Beaty

Admitted into Journalism and Electronic Media
Beaty, set to become a first-generation college student, isn’t just co-captain of Austin-East’s football team—he’s gearing up to make waves in the world of journalism.

Shaniya Cherry

Admitted into Child and Family Studies
A cheerleading sensation and an active member of the student government, Cherry is set to leave her mark in the realm of child and family studies.

Saevyon Cozart

Admitted into Business Analytics
A Project Grad champion, Cozart is poised to make his mark in the dynamic field of business analytics.

Noah Djenini

Admitted on the Business Administration Exploratory Track
From the basketball court to UT’s Project Excellence, Djenini is ready to explore the exciting realms of business administration.

Jamia Hackler

Admitted on the University Exploratory Track
Hackler is set to navigate the diverse opportunities that UT has to offer.

Jamya Hackler

Admitted into Psychology
A psychology enthusiast, Hackler is ready to delve into the mysteries of the human mind.

JaMya Hollis

Admitted into Psychology
A cheer dynamo, dance aficionado, and honor roll student, Hollis is poised to excel in the field of psychology.

Angeline Irankunda

Admitted into Psychology
A dancer with dreams, Irankunda is ready to intertwine the art of dance with the science of psychology.

Samyah McGhee

Admitted into Studio Art
McGhee, the artistic soul, is poised to unleash her creativity at UT’s School of Art.

Charleston Thomas

Admitted into Accounting
A band enthusiast involved in various educational initiatives, Thomas is all set to conquer the field of accounting.

Jaymee Walker

Admitted into Communication Studies
A first-generation college student, Walker is ready to dive into the world of communication studies and make her mark.



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