Rushing named co-captain of LEO Fellows Program, Powers also selected for program

Josiah Rushing and Nia Powers, both of Sparta and juniors at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, have been selected for the second cohorts of the LEO Fellows Program.

Rushing is majoring in Public Relations with a minor in Business and Corporate Event Production

A second-year Fellow and Co-Captain, Rushing has built an impressive resume of experience in event management. He has worked on large-scale events such as Walmart Associate Week, Bonnaroo, and Lollapalooza, experiences that fueled his passion for both corporate and entertainment events.

On campus, Rushing is a member of VolCorps, a Vol Team Ambassador, and a dedicated volunteer with Young Life. Known for his leadership, problem-solving skills, and communication abilities, he is preparing for a career in large-scale event production.

Powers is majoring in Communication Studies. She is actively involved on campus in Alpha Chi Omega, the Circle of Sisterhood, and Alpha Kappa Psi business fraternity. She has also worked with VolCorps and earned top honors in a competitive public speaking competition with more than 1,500 participants.

Her outgoing personality, attention to detail, and commitment to teamwork make her an outstanding addition to 2025’s group of Fellows.

The LEO Fellows Program, a partnership between the College of Communication & Information, the College of Education, Health & Human Sciences at UT and LEO Events, provides students with hands-on training in event production and management. Over the course of the year, Fellows gain immersive, real-world experience in the corporate events industry, building professional networks and learning from industry leaders to prepare them for future careers.