Joy Rumble to head UTIA division
Joy Rumble
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has named Joy Rumble as head of the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications. Dr. Rumble, now an administrator at Ohio State University, will join the UT campus in August 2026.
Chris Boyer, chair of the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics who is also serving as the interim head of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, announced the appointment in a May 7 note to faculty and staff. Boyer says Rumble is the leader the department needs as it shapes a dynamic future for the students and public it serves.
Rumble holds a doctorate in agricultural education and communication from the University of Florida and a master of science degree in agricultural communication as well as a bachelor of science in animal science from Ohio State University. Her research examines how communication shapes understanding and perceptions of agriculture practices to inform policy.
Learn more about Rumble and the UT program here.
Photo by K. Jean, Creative + Photography; information from UTIA.
Promotion ceremony today for KFD
Blair
The Knoxville Fire Department (KFD) has scheduled a promotion ceremony today (5/14/26) at 6 p.m. at the Knoxville Municipal Court, 1650 Huron Street, to announce three assistant chiefs. The public is invited to attend. Promoted are Linny Blair, Justin Bailey and Thomas Cole.
Bailey
Mayor Indya Kincannon and Fire Chief Stan Sharp will recognize the honorees for their leadership, professionalism and commitment to protecting Knoxville residents.
Cole
“We are extremely proud of our new assistant chiefs, who have shown remarkable dedication to their profession and to our community,” said Chief Sharp. “Their hard work and leadership will reinforce our department and further our mission of delivering exceptional emergency services to Knoxville.”
Family, friends and community members are invited to attend to support these newly promoted firefighters as they take on greater responsibilities in serving the city.
YWAC adds two to staff
Benny Carringer
Young-Williams Animal Center has hired Benny Carringer as vice president of advancement and marketing and Sarah Kaplan as marketing manager.
“Benny and Sarah bring the kind of leadership and creativity that will help us expand our reach and impact,” Young-Williams CEO Janet Testerman said. “Their dedication and compassion will play an important role in advancing our mission to ensure every pet has a home.”
Carringer studied ministry and leadership continuing education from Trevecca Nazarene University. He previously spent over 15 years as executive director with the Salvation Army. He’s a Knoxville native.
Sarah Kaplan
Kaplan came to Knoxville to attend UT and previously spent five years as marketing manager for the Knoxville Museum of Art.
Young-Williams Animal Center is the municipal shelter of the city of Knoxville and Knox County, and each year takes in more than 11,000 animals.
The main facility is located off Sutherland Avenue at 3201 Division Street. The satellite adoption location and public spay/neuter program is located at 6400 Kingston Pike.
Both locations are open seven days a week from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The shelter closes from 1-2 p.m. for an hour of quiet time for the animals. Info at 865-215-6599 or www.young-williams.org.
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