OUR FLAGSHIP PROGRAM

CURRENT CLASS

My vision for Knoxville in 2036 is a city that continues to grow while preserving the character, beauty, and sense of community that make it special. I envision Knoxville as a thriving regional leader where economic opportunity, educational excellence, affordable housing and quality healthcare are accessible to all residents. Knoxville will be known for its vibrant downtown, strong neighborhoods, innovative businesses, and commitment to developing future leaders. Most importantly, it will be a community where public, private, and non-profit organizations work together to ensure every resident has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to a prosperous and inclusive future.

Knoxville's best kept secret isn't a place, it's its people. Our community has a remarkable culture of collaboration among business leaders, non-profits, educators, healthcare systems, and public servants. Time and again, Knoxville comes together to solve problems, support growth, and improve quality of life. That spirit of partnership is what makes this city stronger than many others its size.

Investment in future leaders is at the top of my list here, because to strengthen Knoxville, we have to focus on building stronger connections between business, education, non-profits, and local government and strong leadership is a necessary first thought. Fostering collaboration and investing in future leaders will ensure Knoxville remains a vibrant and thriving place to live, work, and raise a family.

Good to Great by Jim Collins is my favorite book

"Don't be afraid of feedback. It is feedback that helps us to get better at what we do!" - a Regional President of BB&T named Fred Groce taught me this over 25 years ago and I still find myself making this statement at least twice a month.

Dream Big! Nothing, absolutely nothing is impossible. Decide, plan, and keep working towards it until it comes to fruition.