University of Tennessee President Toured Rural Schools

Randy Boyd visited high schools across the state to boost college enrollment for rural students.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in College Applications

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring a brick schoolhouse archway set against rolling hills, representing efforts to improve rural college access. — University of Tennessee President Randy Boyd concluded a two-week tour of rural schools aimed at increasing postsecondary enrollment and clarifying financial aid accessibility. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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University of Tennessee President Randy Boyd concluded a two-week tour of rural Tennessee high schools in late September 2026. The initiative aimed to increase postsecondary access and dispel misconceptions regarding the affordability of higher education.

Why it matters

Universities are intensifying efforts to reach rural students to address the enrollment gap and offset the declining number of high school graduates. The outreach program directly connects university representatives with students to provide clarity on financial aid and academic opportunities.

Only 53 percent of rural students enroll in college immediately following graduation. Currently, fewer than 50 percent of University of Tennessee graduates complete their degrees with debt.

The players

Randy Boyd

He serves as the President of the University of Tennessee system.

Polk County High School

This is a rural Tennessee institution that hosted a recent visit from university leadership.

Small Town and Rural Students College Network

This is a consortium of 32 institutions dedicated to supporting rural student access to higher education.

The details

During the tour, school visits featured alumni and campus chancellors who spoke directly to students about college affordability. This year marked the first time the annual tour focused exclusively on rural institutions, including a visit to Polk County High School.

Late September 2026: President Randy Boyd toured rural high schools across Tennessee.
2023: The Small Town and Rural Students College Network was formed.

Culture Shift

This targeted outreach marks a departure from traditional recruitment models by prioritizing geographic accessibility for rural populations. The approach aligns with the Small Town and Rural Students College Network, which connects 32 institutions to address persistent rural educational gaps.

Students and families in rural Tennessee may find more clarity regarding college affordability and financial aid through these direct outreach events. The initiative aims to reduce barriers to entry for local students considering higher education.

The takeaway

Rural students face unique barriers to higher education access that require proactive, direct engagement from universities. Prospective applicants are encouraged to prioritize reviewing actual net-price calculators rather than relying on general perceptions of college costs.