Blakley O’Brien, Student Intern with the Jones Center for Leadership and Service
Marked by long-standing traditions in its decades of service to Volunteers, the Ignite program strives to develop leadership skills and cultivate community engagement. The Jones Center for Leadership and Service champions the program’s continued evolution and growth through sustainable partnerships with academic colleges and campus departments to enhance student success.
In June 2024, the Ignite: 865 session with the Haslam College of Business saw students explore local businesses and connect with regional leaders at Cirrus, DeRoyal, and Tombras. Tours with Haslam College ambassadors enabled students to understand available academic resources that accelerate their career readiness. An inaugural partnership with University Honors welcomed students to Rocky Top with engaging activities to build relationships and understand their CliftonStrengths.
The Jones Center’s continued collaboration with the Student Government Association created the second iteration of Ignite: First-Year Council, where the incoming cohort of first-year students develop key connections and explore team identities to initiate a successful year.
For decades, the Ignite program has strengthened community involvement, cultivated vital leadership competencies, and fostered meaningful relationships among its students. The office looks forward to broadening its collaborations and leveraging the program’s strengths to ensure the success of all Volunteers.