What an incredible conference! Thank you for helping take this year’s eighth Annual Engagement and Outreach Conference to the next level. Your participation in roundtables, networking sessions, and collaborative discussions exemplifies the spirit of community engagement that advances accessibility, fosters belonging, and creates lasting impact across Tennessee.
Your feedback is essential for planning future conferences that meet the evolving needs of our community. Please click here to complete this year’s conference evaluation.
If you were unable to provide feedback for individual sessions, please access the links below.
Session 1: 10:00 – 10:45 a.m. tiny.utk.edu/EOS1
Session 2: 11:00 – 11:45 a.m. tiny.utk.edu/EOS2
Session 3: 1:00 – 1:45 p.m. tiny.utk.edu/EOS3
Session 4: 2:00 – 2:45 p.m. tiny.utk.edu/EOS4
Overview
UT’s Office of Community Engagement and Outreach hosted Next-Level Engagement: Connect, Collaborate, and Cultivate on Monday, October 20, 2025.
This year’s conference served as a dynamic platform for meaningful discussions about the various ways UT’s community engagement efforts positively impact communities across the city, region, state, and globe. Thank you for helping us to explore how these initiatives align with the mission of Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university.
October 20: Student Union | UT Knoxville Campus
9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Breakfast and networking begins at 8:30 a.m.)
| 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. | Registration, Networking, and Breakfast | Ballroom |
| 9:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. | Welcome and Opening Plenary Session | Ballroom |
| 9:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Transition to Sessions |
| 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. | Concurrent Sessions |
| 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. |
Concurrent Sessions |
| 12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Networking Lunch | Ballroom |
| 1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. |
Concurrent Sessions |
| 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. |
Concurrent Sessions |
| 3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Closing Remarks | Ballroom |
Opening Plenary Session: 9:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Research and Education Aligned for Clinical and Community Health (REACCH)
A Transformative Partnership Between River Valley Health and the University of Tennessee
Join us for an inspiring discussion that highlights the nationally recognized collaboration between River Valley Health (formerly Cherokee Health Systems) and the University of Tennessee. This groundbreaking partnership exemplifies how research and education can align to address critical health challenges in clinical and community settings.
Panelists:
- Kristina Gordon, Associate Dean & Professor, Community Engagement and Partnerships
- Parinda Khatri, Chief Executive Officer, River Valley Health
- Hollie Raynor, Executive Associate Dean of Research and Operations, UT College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences
- Eboni Winford, Vice President of Research, River Valley Health
These distinguished leaders will share insights into their innovative approaches to advancing community health through interdisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based practices, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of healthcare delivery and education.
This partnership has garnered national acclaim, including:
- South Regional Winner: 2025 W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Engagement Scholarship Award
- Finalist: C. Peter Magrath Community Engagement Scholarship Award
Presenters and Abstracts
Session 1: 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Empowering Students as Writers: A Train-the-trainer Approach to Building Writing Self-Efficacy in High School Students | Room 262A
Presenters: Kate Wright, Teaching Assistant Professor, English
Co-presenters: Kaitlyn Alford, Teaching Associate, English, Greta Gessert, Grad Teaching Associate, English, and Elliott Lay, Teaching Associate, English.
Abstract: This interactive workshop will equip teachers and mentors with practical, research-based strategies to build high school students’ writing self-efficacy, especially for college application essays. Drawing on the Flagship Writing Project and emphasizing a writer-centered approach, participants will learn to foster “mastery experiences,” reduce writing anxiety, and affirm students as capable, confident writers.
Great Expectations in Healthcare Conference | Room 262B
Presenter: Jada Russell, Assistant Professor of Practice and Executive Director, College of Nursing
Co-presenters: Laura Barry, Clinical Instructor, College of Nursing, Kimberly Brown, Clinical Associate Professor, College of Nursing, Thura Mack, Assistant Dean & Professor, University of Tennessee Libraries, and Angelica Nepomuceno, Library & Engagement Specialist, University of Tennessee Libraries
Abstract: The Great Expectations in Healthcare Conference represents a collaboration between UTK College of Nursing and University Libraries to increase middle school students’ awareness, interest, and understanding of nursing careers and college preparedness. Using engaged scholarship, we designed, implemented, and evaluated our inaugural conference. Best practices and lessons learned will be shared in this session.
Relationship Builders: An Example of Community Partnership Formation Processes and Skills | Room 262C
Presenter: Tomma Battle, Operations and Outreach Coordinator, CEHHS/CSW Office of Community Engagement & Partnerships
Co-presenter: Krista Hein, Community Engagement Coordinator, Community Engagement & Partnerships
Abstract: This interactive workshop will examine partnership formation and maintenance in community-engaged work. The UTK Relationship Builders program will share experiences and processes related to partnership development, while community partners will discuss perspectives on partnership formation, development, and sustainability from the community viewpoint.
Four Years of Community Collaboration: What’s next for UT’s Community-University Research Collaboration Initiative | Room 270
Presenter: Jon Shefner, Professor of Sociology & Executive Director, Community-University Research Collaboration Initiative.
Abstract: This educational session will give an overview of the history and practices of UT’s Community-University Research Collaboration Initiative (CURCI, pronounced “quirky”). CURCI brings funding and university research to community-based research projects. In this session, participants will learn about CURCI’s model, history, and examples of research projects funded by CURCI.
Museum and Community Schools Partnerships: Building Relationships Through Outreach Programming | Room 362A
Presenter: Leslie Chang Jantz, Museum Educator, McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture
Co-presenter: Gladys Farmer, Community Schools Site Coordinator, Lonsdale Elementary
Abstract: Representatives from McClung Museum and Lonsdale Elementary will share their collaborative experience serving students and families in the Lonsdale community. They will highlight how Lonsdale’s expressed need for STEM access and family engagement experiences shaped the trajectory of this community collaboration.
So, You Want to Have a Large Crowd at Your Community Event | Room 362B
Presenter: Cynthia Finch, LMSW, CCM, CMCE, Executive Director, New Direction Health Care Solutions, Inc.
Abstract: Oftentimes, an event sponsor is disappointed in the number of attendees. This presentation explores strategies for hosting successful community events that attract large crowds. Learn how to ensure attendees leave feeling fulfilled, achieve the “3 P’s” (Participation, Pathway Setting, Gaining POWER), and become effective community advocates for impactful event outcomes.
Provider And Patient Perspectives on Supporting Healthy Living Habits in River Valley Health | Room 362C
Presenter: Chad Wagoner, Assistant Professor, Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport Studies
Co-presenter: Jared McGuirt, Department of Nutrition, and Eboni Winford, River Valley Health
Abstract: This session shares findings from a co-created needs assessment with River Valley Health (formerly Cherokee Health Systems), exploring provider and patient perspectives on supporting healthy behaviors. Insights include perceived barriers to lifestyle counseling, challenging patient habits, and opportunities for designing team-based, clinic- and community-level support tools.
Session 2: 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Once Upon a Workshop: How Creativity Can Cultivate Communities | Room 262A
Presenters: Kayela Golden, Coordinator of Recruitment & Student Engagement at the UT College of Veterinary Medicine
Abstract: This interactive session will explore how creativity cultivates communities through storytelling, hands-on learning, and authentic engagement. Designed for educators and outreach professionals, participants will discover real-world strategies and practical tools for designing inclusive, curiosity-driven programs that foster trust, representation, and lasting partnerships across diverse communities.
UT Experiences Palestine in Jordan: Exploring Careers in International Aid and Peacebuilding | Room 262B
Presenters: Matt Buehler, Chair of Middle East Studies and Associate Professor of Political Science
Co-presenter: Suhair Burbar, Daniel Harb, Greg Harb, Helen Harb, Roger Harb, and Samyah Jubran of the Ramallah, Palestine Club of Knoxville
Abstract: This new study abroad program, “UT Experiences Palestine in Jordan: Exploring Careers in International Aid and Peacebuilding,” provides annual career-prep training for twelve UT graduate students. This immersive experience prepares trainees for international careers in refugee aid, development, and peacebuilding through applied curriculum and first-hand learning about conflict resolution paths.
Engaged Scholarship: Strategies for Planning, IRB Approval, Authorship and Dissemination | Room 262C
Presenters: Amy Gilliland, Associate Director, Office of Community Engagement and Outreach
Co-presenter: Chris Kilgore, Director of Scholarly Teaching and Special Initiatives, Teaching & Learning Innovation, Kimberly Pettigrew, Director of Food Security, United Way of Greater Knoxville, Hollie Raynor, Executive Associate Dean of Research & Operations, Department of Nutrition, Javiette Samuel, Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic and External Relations, Eboni Winford, Vice President of Research, River Valley Health, and Rob Withrow, Director, Human Research Protections
Abstract: This panel will detail the work, outputs, and insights from the Engaged Research Process Taskforce at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The Taskforce was designed to address issues of vocabulary, IRB approval, processes, and expectations of community-engaged research. Panelists will provide insights into improving the process of community-engaged research.
The Atrocity Continues: Gun Violence in Modern America and its Victims | Room 270
Presenter: Bob Kronick, Professor Emeritus, Educational Psychology & Counseling
Abstract: : This presentation will highlight insights from the manuscript “Gun Violence in Modern America and Its Victims: The Case for Atrocity.” Focusing on victims’ lived experiences and examining gun violence in contemporary context, attendees will be challenged to move beyond observation into active involvement.
Book Nooks & Big Ideas: A Community-Centered Health Literacy Initiative | Room 362A
Presenter: Julie Owens, Assistant Professor of Special Education, Department of Theory & Practice in Teacher Education
Co-presenter: Laura Porter, Community Partner, River Valley Health
Abstract: This session explores how literacy initiatives like Book Nooks foster trust and collaboration in university-community partnerships, highlighting strategies for co-designing health literacy assessments to improve outcomes for vulnerable populations in East Tennessee.
Nurturing Science Identities: Co-Designing a Science Curriculum for Summer Camp with Mexican-Latina Girls | Room 362B
Presenter: Jaquelina Schmittlen-Garbocci, Graduate Teaching Assistant, Theory & Practice in Teacher Education
Co-presenter: Megan Barolet-Fogarty, Centro Hispano’s Youth and Family Department’s Director, Maleny Lopez, Emily Tovar-Carreon, Jaqueline Turner, and Johana Turner
Abstract: This presentation explores a university-community partnership between Centro Hispano and UTK researchers that implemented culturally relevant STEM programming for Latine youth. By co-designing science curriculum with Mexican-Latina girls, the collaboration nurtures science identities, and creates spaces where participants develop agency while engaging with science hands-on activities.
Building and Strengthening Researcher-Community Partner Collaborations for Research with Hidden or Isolated Communities | Room 362C
Presenter: Mary Held, Associate Professor and Interim PhD Program Director, Social Work
Co-presenter: J. Douglas Coatsworth, Betsey R. Bush Endowed Professor in Behavioral Health and Associate Dean of Research, College of Social Work. Contributors: Eliza Galvez, PhD Candidate, and J. Ruben Parra Cardona, Roger and Carol Nooe Endowed Chair and Professor
Abstract: This interactive workshop will explore strategies for building collaborations with community-based organizations serving hidden or isolated individuals and families. Participants will examine how researchers overcome challenges, including lower trust, power differentials, and cultural and linguistic barriers to develop successful collaborative partnerships.
Exploring Extension’s Role in Nutrition Education for Substance Use Recovery: Community-Engaged Insights Across the State of Tennessee | Room 377
Presenter: Sherifa Iddrisu, Graduate Teaching Assistant, Doctoral Student, CEHHS, Nutrition Department
Co-presenter: Katie Conrad, Karen Franck, and Kristin Riggsbee, Nutrition Department, UT Family and Consumer Science Department
Abstract: This session explores extension’s role in addressing nutrition needs in substance use disorder (SUD) recovery, highlighting the lack of structured nutrition education in rural areas. We will identify barriers, opportunities, and support systems to guide future Extension-based nutrition programs in Tennessee’s SUD treatment centers.
Networking Lunch: 12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Lunch, networking, remarks – Ballroom
Session 3: 1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Expanding Digital Skills and Workforce Readiness for Justice Involved Adults | Room 262A
Presenter: Stephanie Langley, Director Educational Opportunity Center, Education Research & Opportunity Center, UTK
Co-presenter: Kenny Griffin, Correctional Counselor, Volunteer Coordinator, Knoxville Day Reporting Center, and Halle Timpson, Director, Veterans Upward Bound, ERO Center, UTK
Abstract: The University of Tennessee’s TRIO programs and Knoxville Day Reporting Center collaborate to provide digital literacy training for formerly incarcerated individuals in a diversion program. This session explores the digital divide facing incarcerated populations and demonstrates how community partnerships reduce recidivism through education, structured support, and workforce readiness.
Cultivating Rural Recovery: Developing Specialized Distance Education for Addiction Providers in Tennessee | Room 262B
Presenter: Jamian Coleman, Assistant Professor, Counseling, Human Development & Family Science
Co-presenter: Carrie Bailey, Associate Clinical Professor, College of Nursing, Edy Borden, Graduate Student, Counseling, Human Development & Family Science, and Breanna Weiland, Graduate Student, Counseling, Human Development & Family Science
Abstract: Rural Tennessee faces a substance use treatment access crisis, with 71% of the 19.2% needing treatment receiving none. This session will share our team’s research on addiction challenges in rural communities through focus groups and interviews to develop culturally responsive online resources addressing this critical public health need.
Next-Level Engagement Through ED100: Cultivating Community Impact via University-Assisted Community Schools | Room 262C
Presenter: Janine Al-Aseer, Clinical Assistant Professor, Theory and Practice in Teacher Education, College of Education
Co-presenter: Megan Mundie, Clinical Instructor, Theory and Practice in Teacher Education
Abstract: This interactive workshop will explore academic outreach and engagement opportunities available through the University-Assisted Community Schools strategy. Through case studies of education and law courses, participants will examine how community-engaged teaching, learning, and scholarship brings academic learning to life.
Bridging the Gap: How Research Partnerships Can Create Transformation and Community | Room 270
Presenter: Timothy P. Munyon, Ergen Professor of Business and Head, Department of Management & Entrepreneurship
Abstract: This session highlights how scholars can create community engagement through strategic research partnerships. We highlight the case of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of East Tennessee, which resulted in published research and a transformative nationwide workforce program. We then engage interactively to discover new research collaboration opportunities among the audience
Reflections On the First Year of Community Collaborative Research at AJRC | Room 362A
Presenter: Wendy A. Bach, Professor of Law
Abstract: The Appalachian Justice Research Center launched its first community collaborative research projects in 2024. One year later, ten transdisciplinary projects are underway. Co-directors will share updates including case studies, lessons learned about community-university partnerships, and the innovative Appalachian Justice Research Lab course model.
Partnership in Action: A Collaborative Approach to STEM Education in Centro Hispano Summer Program | Room 362B
Presenter: Jaquelina Schmittlen-Garbocci, Graduate Teaching Assistant, Theory and Practice in Teacher Education
Co-presenter: Einstein Morales, Making Robotics, and Megan Barolet-Fogarty, Centro Hispano’s Youth and Family Department’s Director
Abstract: This presentation will share Centro Hispano’s partnership with UTK researchers in implementing culturally relevant STEM programming at their summer camp. The collaboration demonstrates how shared community identity strengthens implementation while emphasizing reciprocity and mutual benefit despite limited resources in community-engaged scholarship.
Civic Wealth Creation and Community Engagement | Room 362C
Presenter: David Gras, Associate Professor, Haslam College of Business, Consortium for Social Enterprise Effectiveness Co-Director
Co-presenter: Kumi Alderman, Executive Director, Asian Culture Center of Tennessee, and Tom Lumpkin, Visiting Senior Research Professor, Haslam College of Business
Abstract: Civic Wealth Creation (CWC) fosters social, economic, and communal benefits through collaboration among communities, entrepreneurs, and universities. Highlighted by UT’s role in the Knox Asian Festival, this roundtable explores how universities can drive CWC via research, outreach, and stakeholder engagement. Discussions emphasize inclusivity, trust-building, and sustainable community impact strategies.
Session 4: 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Central Cessation: Partnering with a Federally Qualified Health Center to Assess Smoking Continuation Among Central Appalachians Living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease | Room 262A
Presenter: McKenzie Granata Green, Graduate Teaching Associate, Public Health
Abstract: This presentation will detail how this project addresses smoking continuation patterns among patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Central Appalachia. Despite smoking cessation being the most effective way to halt COPD advancement and improve pulmonary outcomes, few studies have assessed smoking patterns in this population.
We Made This: Six Participatory or Collaborative Approaches to Community Engaged Creative Projects | Room 262B
Presenter: Amanda Evans, Assistant Professor, School of Art
Abstract: This interactive workshop introduces six participatory and collaborative frameworks for facilitating ethical, community-engaged artworks. Participants will diagram case studies of internationally recognized participatory artworks and engage in group discussions exploring the opportunities and challenges each approach presents for artists, communities, and host organizations.
Commitment to Collaborative Leadership | Room 262C
Presenter: Clarence Vaughn, Director, Office of Access and Community Connections, Haslam College of Business
Abstract: This educational session will help participants identify leadership styles while examining how professional development impacts collaborative leadership. Attendees will review personal definitions of collaborative leadership, learn effective strategies, and participate in interactive exercises evaluating personal versus social identity and affinity group impacts on decision-making.
Coaching the Coaches: Building Mentor Capacity through the UT Collaboratory | Room 272C
Presenter: Kate Hall, Director of UT Grow Your Own Center, Academic Affairs, Research & Student Success
Co-presenter: Charlene Russell, Middle TN Regional Manager, UT Grow Your Own Center, Academic Affairs, Research & Student Success
Abstract: This session will focus on the UT System’s Mentor Collaboratory, a two-year initiative that equips mentor teachers and program leaders with research-based tools, competency-aligned training, and peer networks while fostering collective leadership to strengthen Tennessee’s teacher pipeline. Learn to co-create scalable professional development to enhance mentor-mentee relationship., aligns coursework with field experiences, and advances UT’s Grand Challenges priority of improving K-12 education.
Lessons Learned in the Development of an Implementation Science Training Program | Room 362B
Presenter: Nikola Zaharakis, Research Assistant Professor, Center for Behavioral Health Research, College of Social Work
Co-presenter: J. Douglas Coatsworth, Betsey R. Bush Endowed Professor in Behavioral Health and Associate Dean of Research, College of Social Work, Kristina Gordon, Associate Dean for Community Engagement, College of Education, Health, & Human Sciences, and Eboni Winford, Vice President of Research, River Valley Health
Abstract: This roundtable will share lessons learned in co-creating an implementation science training program for academic researchers and federally qualified health center staff. Faculty and community partner team members will discuss recommended strategies for decreasing potential misunderstandings and streamlining group progression.
Storytelling Through Computational Thinking: Connecting Computer Science and Community Stories | Room 362C
Presenter: Amy Maples, Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Theory and Practice in Teacher Education
Co-presenter: Lynn Hodge, Professor and Department Head, Theory and Practice in Teacher Education
Abstract: This roundtable will report on a professional learning project integrating culturally responsive pedagogy with computer science teaching among K-8 educators from East Tennessee Appalachian communities. Attendees will engage in discussions focused on community-engaged learning activities supporting both student learning and broader community growth.
Closing Remarks: 3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Ballroom