OUR FLAGSHIP PROGRAM

CURRENT CLASS

A thriving Knoxville where every resident (regardless of zip code) has access to education, employment, and opportunity, reducing disparities and building a stronger, more united community.

A deep spirit of community where neighbors show up for one another, and local leaders, nonprofits, and volunteers work behind the scenes every day to lift up and support those in need that desire change. It is also a great place to raise a family.

Across our great city, we have tremendous potential. I would invest time in developing partnerships that bridge neighborhoods and expand access to quality education and job training. I would also support and collaborate with local leaders who are already doing transformative work so that everyone has a fair shot at a hopeful future

The Blizzard of 1993 remains a defining event in my mind. I remember for its intensity and how we lost power and all of our neighbors came together and shared whatever we could. Power was not restored for three days. It sure felt good to get a hot shower after that!

The Purpose Driven Life Book by Rick Warren

The best advice I ever received was to focus on building genuine relationships and leading with integrity. I used to measure my success by trying to be perfect, but my mentor helped me see that perfection isn't the goal. Instead, it's important to admit when I'm wrong or have failed and to lead with humility. True success isn't just about what you accomplish; it's about the positive impact you have on others along the way. Stay humble, keep learning, and remember that your character is your greatest asset.

Dear 16-year-old me, Don't take life so seriously and worry less. Learn to live in the moment and trust that God is guiding your path instead of me leading all the time. Most of the things that seem so important now won't even matter five years from today. Keep your faith strong, lean on God's peace, and remember that He's always with you through every step of the journey. Enjoy the process, be kind to yourself, and trust that everything will work out according to His plan.