Two staff members at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville — Rachel Rui and JaNay’ Turner — were named among the Knox News 40 Under 40 class of 2023 in honor of their professional accomplishments and service to their community.
Rui is director of the Office of Asia Engagement and the Office of Communications at the Center for Global Engagement. Her responsibilities include strategic planning and communications to develop and execute innovative programs linking UT and global partners that contribute to opportunities in global learning, research and service.
“My passion with the community and community work is so ingrained in the Volunteer identity. I feel very humbled and very honored to be recognized by the 40 under 40. I don’t feel like I did anything extraordinary. I did what anyone who has gone through UT and been supported by the UT family would do,” Rui said.
Turner serves as a coordinator in the Division of Access and Engagement. She is responsible for managing strategic projects and initiatives, as well as planning, coordinating and executing special events that build and sustain reciprocal community-university partnerships.
“There is no greater reward to me than knowing my presence in someone’s life made a difference for the better,” said Turner. “The work that I do and have done throughout my career is important, and I’m passionate about the communities I serve.”
Twenty UT alumni were also honored among this year’s 40 Under 40 class. The award recognizes top young professionals living and working across East Tennessee. The group will be featured in Knox.biz magazine.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Cindi King (865-974-0937, cking126@utk.edu)