KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT/SUBMITTED) -- Nineteen University of Tennessee student-athletes received degrees as part of fall graduation which took place on Dec. 9.

"The academic success of our student-athletes is of the highest priority within the department of athletics," said Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Dave Hart. "Our newest Tennessee graduates are well-prepared for the challenges they will face moving forward."

This year's graduates include Jonathan Brown and Shawn Bryson, two former football student-athletes who returned to campus and completed their degree requirements through the Thornton Center's Renewing Academic Commitment (RAC) program.

Brown lettered in football in the 1994-97 seasons. Bryson competed with the Vols from 1995-98, serving as a captain in his senior season.
The RAC program assists former student-athletes by providing advice on remaining degree requirements, course scheduling, tutoring, employment and internship opportunities, as well as use of the Thornton Center for their everyday needs.

The following is a list of 2011 Tennessee student-athlete fall graduates:

Jonathan Brown, Football (RAC), Psychology
Shawn Bryson, Football (RAC), Political Science
Grace Cuenin, Soccer, Special Education
Tayna Emerson, Soccer, Childe & Family Studies
Art Evans, Football, Interdisciplinary Programs
Brent Freeman, Track & Field, Master's in Business Administration
Scott Friderichs, Swimming & Diving, Communication Studies
DeeDee Harrison, Volleyball, Sport Management
Kayla Jeter, Volleyball, Sociology
Mattias Kahlin, Swimming & Diving, Biological Sciences
Alicia Manning, Basketball, Sport Management
Brittany Napoli, Swimming & Diving, Psychology
Maria Sorbello, Tennis, Communication Studies
Melissa Speros, Soccer, Hotel Restaurant & Tourism
Michael Spooner, Track & Field, Communication Studies
Cameron Tatum, Basketball, Interdisciplinary Programs
Daryl Vereen, Football, Psychology
Tricia Weaner, Swimming & Diving, Finance and Enterprise Management
Scott Wherry, Swimming & Diving, Master's in Biomedical Engineering