OUR FLAGSHIP PROGRAM
CURRENT CLASS
Jenny Swanson
PetSafe Brands
Chief People Officer
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?
Big city promise with small town vibes. We need more companies to be headquartered here and to become a talent magnet.
What is Knoxville's Best Kept Secret?
The Tennessee Theater is a true gem of the city! I also love the sunflower fields at Ijams and the opportunity to bike the Cades Cove loop on Wednesdays in the summer.
What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?
More greenways/sidewalks, better restaurants (Asheville has us beat), larger airport.
What is your favorite Knoxville memory?
UT Football games - the energy, excitement, and fun. It doesn't matter what you do for a living or what part of town you are from....on game day, everyone is a Vol fan!
What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand?
The Great Alone by Kristen Hannah and Educated by Tara Westover
What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?
My dad once told me "Find something you love to do and can be good at"...it is a win-win combination!
What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?
Believe in yourself. Treat people with kindness and assume good intentions when dealing with other people. You always have a choice (in how you respond, in how you show up, in how hard you work, etc.) and you are in control of your choices.



