OUR FLAGSHIP PROGRAM

CURRENT CLASS

I envision Knoxville as a Beloved Community where the well-being and prosperity of EVERY person is prioritized, where equity in access, opportunity, and outcomes is imperative, and where an outstanding quality of life for all generations is a reality.

The talent, compassion, and dedication of the thousands of staff members of local nonprofits who have chosen to dedicate their careers and their lives to serving others. Working alongside these professionals continually inspires me.

I believe that complex challenges require collaborative solutions. I'd love to see the intentional alignment of strategies and resources across sectors (public services, industries, colleges/universities, civil and nonprofit organizations and residents) towards shared, strategic community goals.

I have too many to pick just one! Game days at Neyland, special events with church family, and all the summer festivals in World's Fair Park with my daughter...

Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison, The Parable Series by Octavia Butler, and The Wounded Healer by Henri Nouwen

Dr. Wilbur Reid, a professor in my MBA program, coached me to no longer see my difference as disadvantage, and to embrace every aspect of my identity and experiences, even the most difficult, as distinct advantage for every role and situation where God calls me.

It's ok to not have it all figured out and to take the risks. The lessons, stories, and friends you make along the way will make even the failures worth it. You're wiser, stronger, and more resilient than you realize, and you don't want to live with any regrets.