Leading with Energy, Purpose, and Heart: Amelia Ainsworth Earns Haslam Leadership Scholarship

For Knoxville Catholic High School senior Amelia Ainsworth ’26, what began as a simple “why not?” moment turned into a life-changing opportunity.

After being accepted to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Amelia noticed an invitation in her acceptance email to apply for the prestigious Haslam Leadership Scholars program. On a whim, she submitted her application, never imagining just how far it would take her.

“I sent it off and thought to myself, ‘okay, whatever happens, happens,’” Amelia shared.

What followed was a highly competitive, months-long process that would challenge and ultimately affirm everything she believed about leadership.

A Process That Tested and Revealed Her Character

From a recorded interview to multiple rounds of selection, Amelia advanced through a pool of more than 1,600 applicants. By February, she found herself among just 41 finalists invited to campus for an intensive interview weekend.

“It was very stressful… but I remember thinking, if I’m completely myself and this doesn’t work out, then it just wasn’t meant for me…and that’s okay,” she said.

That mindset proved to be her greatest strength.

A week later, in the middle of rehearsal for Cinderella, Amelia’s phone rang. On the other end was Jim Haslam himself with the news—she had been selected as one of just 15 recipients nationwide.

“I freaked out,” she said, laughing.

Redefining Leadership

Throughout her interviews, Amelia didn’t point to titles or accolades as her definition of leadership. Instead, she focused on something far more powerful: presence, energy, and authenticity.

Whether dancing up to 30 hours a week with Go! Contemporary Dance Works, performing with KCHS Singers, leading the Catholic Crazy Corner (CCC), or serving as a Counselor-in-Training at Camp Marymount, Amelia has consistently led by example.

“I talked a lot in my interviews about how leadership isn’t necessarily being put in a position. It’s creating that position around yourself,” she explained. “Being someone people want to follow, not have to follow.”

A Scholar with a Purpose

The Haslam Leadership Scholars Program is a four-year, cohort-based program designed to develop community-minded leaders through academic enrichment, study abroad experiences, internships, and service-driven projects. The scholarship covers full tuition, room and board, and more, making it one of the most prestigious honors in the state.

Amelia is the first student from Knoxville Catholic to receive this distinction.

What excites her most isn’t just the opportunity…it’s the people.

“I thrive in community,” she said. “I’m so excited to grow with a group of people who are passionate and like-minded.”

Looking Ahead

While Amelia plans to begin in business exploratory studies, her long-term vision is already taking shape. She feels a strong calling to support and empower younger girls, particularly those navigating middle school and early high school.

“I want to help them build confidence, find their values, and discover their talents,” she said. “Whether that’s through nonprofits, programs, or even public policy…I just know I want to make an impact.”

A Legacy of Leadership at Catholic

“Amelia’s leadership role of our CCC was outstanding, as she balanced enthusiasm and school spirit with a strong commitment to our policies and the positive image of our school.”

Advice for the Next Generation

When asked what advice she would give younger students, Amelia’s answer was simple—but powerful:

“Be yourself. Push yourself out of your comfort zone, but don’t lose who you are in the process. Stay positive, take advantage of every opportunity, and just have fun.”

Amelia ainsworth