CCHS Valedictorian will attend University of Tennessee tuition free

KNOXVILLE-Clay County Class of 2025 graduate and valedictorian Erin Meadows has been named a Distinguished Tennessean Scholar by the University of Tennessee.

Meadows is one of 95 students from across the state who received the scholarship, which covers tuition and mandatory fees, and is renewable for four years.

She was awarded the honor for her exceptional academic performance, demonstrated community involvement, and passion for the Volunteer spirit.

Since its inception, the university has awarded upwards of $7 million to 278 Distinguished Tennessean Scholars.

“The Distinguished Tennessean Scholarship is a reflection of how future Volunteers are lighting the way for others before their time on Rocky Top even begins,” said Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Kari Alldredge. “This year, it’s a privilege to recognize a Distinguished Tennessean from each of our 95 counties. We are excited to celebrate these scholars for the ways they have made a positive impact in their communities and for what they will accomplish in the years ahead.”

UT launched the Distinguished Tennessean Scholarship in fall 2022 with the goal of recognizing one student from each county across the state for exceptional academic performance, demonstrated community involvement and a passion for the Volunteer spirit.

Since then, the university has awarded upwards of $7 million to 278 Distinguished Tennessean Scholars. The scholarship covers tuition and mandatory fees and is renewable for four years.