When Oprah Winfrey said, “When I look to the future, it’s so bright it burns my eyes,” I just know she was talking about Hailey Rose Viars.

This beautiful senior just graduated with honors from the University of Tennessee—the UT Institute of Agriculture to be exact. Hailey Rose majored in agricultural leadership, education, and communications. She was an absolute all-star student! After graduation, she’s headed to Oklahoma for graduate school. I have no doubt that she will excel and thrive there. 

I was thrilled and honored when she asked me about a graduation session. 

We met at historic Morgan Hall, the oldest building on the “Ag Campus.” Hailey Rose had requested a senior session and family session all in one. This included her proud parents and her tiny Yorkie, Deacon! Deacon was on his best behavior. He even dressed up in a tiny, black bowtie for the photo session. We got some really classic graduation images with a historic feel here!

Our second location on the UT Knoxville campus was a favorite of many students: Circle Park. This is where UT’s famed Torchbearer lives. For those of you who don’t know or didn’t attend UT, the Torchbearer is a statue at the head of Circle Park. It’s the campus’s symbol of enlightenment, leadership, and service. The Volunteer Creed at the base of the statue reads, “One that beareth a torch shadoweth oneself to give light to others.” The light at Circle Park was stunning, and we were able to get some really beautiful photos of Hailey rose with that dreamy rim lighting that everyone loves! 

And it was extra special that just days before walking across Neyland Stadium for graduation, her parents got to be part of her photo session and see her in her regalia — before the whirlwind began! 

Hailey Rose, congratulations on all of your achievements! You’re a very bright star, and I know you’ll go far in life and make a difference everywhere you go.