The Volunteer 40 under 40 awards, published in February 2026, recognize alumni under the age of 40 excelling personally and professionally since completing their degree at UT. This year’s award recipients include ALEC alumnus Ronnie Cowan. Ronnie graduated with his Master of Science in Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications in 2015.

Ronnie Cowan leads statewide initiatives in hunting, fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation in his role at UT. As a lifelong outdoorsman, he inspires others to embrace America’s outdoor heritage and conservation ethic. A first-generation college graduate, Cowan has dedicated his career to expanding access to conservation education and outdoor opportunities. His efforts have reached more than 20,000 individuals annually, engaged over 5,000 youth in 4-H programs, and launched 12 new conservation initiatives in partnership with nonprofits and state agencies. Cowan is currently pursuing a PhD in natural resources, researching barriers to outdoor participation among diverse audiences.

To see the entire list of 2026 award winners check out the UTK Alumni Website.