UT President Visits White County High School

On Thursday, October 1, 2026, the University of Tennessee President, Randy Boyd, visited the White County High School as part of his three-school tour for the day. Upon President Boyd's arrival, the White County Cheerleaders, dressed in orange and white, led a cheer as a welcome.  Another department from the school joining the welcome was the high school marching band.  They recreated the "Power T" and played Rocky Top as President Boyd and his crew entered the gym through the T. 

As everyone took their seats and the crowd began to settle down, Principal Greg Wilson welcomed everyone and invited the JROTC to present the colors, while the choir led the national anthem, and a student led the pledge of allegiance. With many distinguished guests, Principal Wilson introduced many of them and gave the Director of Schools, Kurt Dronebarger, an opportunity to address the crowd and the guests.  

Next, Principal Wilson invited President Randy Boyd to address the students. Boyd stated, "I've been all over the state and have not received a bigger welcome than here in White County." As he talked to the students, he discussed their options within the state for plans after high school, including TNAchieves, which was founded by President Boyd.   

In addition to President Boyd, the students had the privilege of hearing from two distinguished UT System leaders. Dr. Artanya Wesley, Vice Chancellor at UTC, highlighted the 140+ academic programs available at UT Chattanooga while emphasizing what it means to join a campus that is "big enough to matter, but small enough to care."

Dr. Melinda Arnold, President of UT Southern, shared the exciting hands-on learning, workforce-ready degree pathways, and close-knit campus community offered at UT's newest undergraduate campus in Pulaski.

Armed with free stuff and a speech to inform, President Boyd kept the high schoolers' attention.  After the speech, the students were equipped with information to make their decision about their future, especially the senior class. 

The event ended on a fun note with Principal Wilson leading the marching band in Rocky Top.  Everyone cheered as Mr. Wilson quietly walked to the stand and began the count-off.  With such a fun memory, not only for Principal Wilson but for everyone in attendance, the UT President's visit was a wonderful event from beginning to end.