OUR FLAGSHIP PROGRAM

CURRENT CLASS

I moved here for a job 20 years ago into a loft apartment on the 100 block of Gay Street. At the time downtown was quiet and sleepy, but my now husband welcomed me into his group of friends. Their community involvement, connections and contributions over time helped create the vibrant food, theater, music, fashion, nature and art scenes we know today. In the next decade, I look forward to Knoxville welcoming new residents of all ages and walks of life. From young people starting out and building families to retirees staying active and involved. People who would choose to live in our city because of its quality and range of housing, efficient transit system, educational and work opportunities, diverse faith congregations, and state of the art medical and mental healthcare.

Many may not expect in our approachable sized city the quality offerings available in larger cities. Our food, festivals, zoo, museum, sports venues, music, theater, churches, our artisan community, and the university all with beautiful nature and outdoor fun nearby.

I plan to learn about and seek out the people who are passionately creating and contributing their time and talent to their passions, then make connections between them.

Being with friends on a beautiful spring night, enjoying Yo-Yo Ma and Rhiannon Giddens perform at World's Fair Park during the Big Ears Festival May 2023.

A dear friend and neighbor gifted me Dr. Peter Attia's book "Outlive.

A senior when I was in residency at ETSU gently offered me his strategy for coping. "Be upset for 20 minutes then let it pass." It reminds me I can own my own emotions during difficult times, move through them then carry-on.

Stay humble and grateful. Know you can do hard things and accept that with blessings come great responsibility. Be generous.