Knoxville TN, October 10, 2025
News Summary
Christopher Sneed, an associate professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has received the 2025 Excellence in Extension Award. This prestigious award recognizes his impactful contributions in community development and educational leadership. With over 20 years of service, Sneed has developed initiatives aimed at improving financial literacy and food access for low-resource families. His extensive background in consumer economics and dedication to community service demonstrate his commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals in Tennessee.
Christopher Sneed Receives National Excellence in Extension Award for Community Impact and Educational Leadership
KNOXVILLE, TN – Christopher Sneed, an associate professor and consumer economics specialist at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Excellence in Extension Award for an individual. This award was presented at the recent Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) Conference by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), Cooperative Extension, and APLU.
The Excellence in Extension Award acknowledges exceptional contributions made by Cooperative Extension professionals in the areas of scientific programming, visionary leadership, and significant impact on communities. Jaye Hamby, director of NIFA, highlighted the vital role of knowledge shared through university-community partnerships in enhancing individuals’ lives.
Christopher Sneed’s nomination was supported by prominent colleagues, including Justin Rhinehart, dean of UT Extension, and Janet Fox, assistant dean and Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) professor. With over 20 years of dedicated service to the UT Institute of Agriculture and the state of Tennessee, Sneed’s career has included roles as an FCS agent and director of both the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP).
Educational Background
Sneed possesses an extensive educational background, having earned a bachelor’s degree in family studies, a master’s in human resource development, and a doctorate in retail, hospitality, and tourism management from the University of Tennessee.
Notable Programs and Initiatives
Among Sneed’s significant contributions are several innovative programs aimed at enhancing community welfare. These include:
- Time to Talk: A program focused on understanding healthcare costs.
- Shop Smart Tennessee: An initiative designed to improve food access for low-resource families.
- Money Week: An event recognized by the State Treasurer.
Additionally, Sneed has launched the Money Minute video series, providing easy-to-digest money management tips through social media and YouTube channels.
Achievements and Recognition
Throughout his career, Sneed has secured over $42 million in grants and contracts. His academic contributions include numerous articles published in peer-reviewed journals, and he has received several notable honors, including the NEAFCS Internet Technology Award. In 2023, he was also named Educator of the Year by the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE).
Christopher Sneed is recognized as the third member of the FCS Department to receive the Excellence in Extension Award in the last six years, joining former recipients Matthew Devereaux and Ann Berry.
Conclusion
Sneed’s work fosters a greater understanding of personal finance and resource access among Tennessee residents, making a meaningful impact in their lives. His recognition is a testament to his unwavering dedication to education and community service throughout his extensive career.
FAQs
Who is Christopher Sneed?
Christopher Sneed is an associate professor and consumer economics specialist at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
What award did Christopher Sneed receive?
He has been awarded the 2025 Excellence in Extension Award for an individual.
Who presented the Excellence in Extension Award?
The award was presented at the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) Conference by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), Cooperative Extension, and APLU.
What does the Excellence in Extension Award recognize?
The award recognizes excellence in scientific programming, visionary leadership, and positive community impact by Cooperative Extension professionals.
How long has Sneed served the UT Institute of Agriculture?
Sneed has over 20 years of service to the UT Institute of Agriculture and the state of Tennessee in various roles including FCS agent and SNAP/EFNEP director.
What programs has Sneed developed?
Notable programs developed by Sneed include the “Time to Talk” program for understanding healthcare costs, “Shop Smart Tennessee” for food access among low-resource families, and “Money Week,” recognized by the State Treasurer.
What is Sneed’s educational background?
He earned his bachelor’s degree in family studies, a master’s in human resource development, and a doctorate in retail, hospitality, and tourism management from the University of Tennessee.
Key Features of the Award
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Award Title | 2025 Excellence in Extension Award for an individual |
| Presented by | USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), Cooperative Extension, and APLU |
| Recipient | Christopher Sneed |
| Years of Service | Over 20 years |
| Major Programs | “Time to Talk,” “Shop Smart Tennessee,” “Money Week” |
| Grant Funding | Over $42 million |
| Awards Received | NEAFCS Internet Technology Award, Educator of the Year by AFCPE |
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Additional Resources
- Knox News Obituaries
- WBIR News: UT Turfgrass Team Award
- Wikipedia: Square
- Knox TN Today: Sister Mary Lisa Renfer Award
- Encyclopedia Britannica
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