OUR FLAGSHIP PROGRAM

CURRENT CLASS

Knoxville has made great strides in its recent history. In ten years, I envision a healthy community that leverages its many outdoor resources for recreation and physical activity. I imagine a community that benefits from the educational opportunities offered from our universities and trade schools and that offers a variety of high-paying jobs and economic opportunities, all of which exist because businesses are drawn to the area for its people. I imagine a city known for its quality healthcare, affordable housing, strong schools, downtown attractions, and friendly people. I also envision a few more national championships for our Vols!

I could list many, but I recently discovered the East Tennessee History Center. They have a great museum that chronicles the history of our region. I had a wonderful visit and look forward to going back again.

I'd work to encourage further engagement in the community. I want everyone to feel like they are a part of Knoxville and not just people who happen to live here. When everyone feels a sense of pride and personal investment in the community, Knoxville will continue to achieve great things.

My favorite Knoxville memory is attending Boomsday for the first time. I had watched it on TV as a kid, but nothing compared to seeing the real thing. There were over 300,000 people in attendance, all enjoying the free event and having fun together.

I'm currently reading Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese. Other great books that I've read recently include Demon Copperhead, Grant, Born Fighting, Leadership in Turbulent Times, The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt, and Dreamland - The True Tale of America's Opioid Epidemic

You're trying too hard to figure out what you think is the one right answer. Complex problems often have multiple right answers or sometimes no clear answer at all. Just trust your judgment." - from my former dept. chair, Dr. Epps, with regard to oral boards, but I've found many other applications for this advice, too.

Your goals are important, but make sure you take time to enjoy the ride while trying to reach them as well.