What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?

As the cost of traditional colleges continues to rise and the demand for young people becoming tradesman (and woman) grows, I would love to see Knoxville expand the opportunities and resources available for students who are interested in attending vocational schools.

What is Knoxville’s Best Kept Secret?

I know most of us who live in the Metropolitan Knoxville Area know about it, but the Tennessee Theatre is such an amazing treasure and I am not sure how well known it is outside of area.

What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?

Personally, I would like to find more volunteer opportunities with local organizations whose missions are to help support teenagers and young adults in achieving their future education goals, whether through traditional colleges or trade schools.

What is your favorite Knoxville memory?

I love the Tennessee Valley Fair – not the carnival but the agriculture aspect. My daughter has been involved in showing Black Angus cattle for years, and the Tennessee Valley Fair is always our favorite.

What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand?

Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich

What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?

Eat That Frog! – I can’t even remember who recommended this book (probably several people) but I rely on that advice at least weekly. Do the thing you are most dreading first thing and get it over with, most of the time it is not as bad as you think it is going to be and even if it is, you got it taken care of and can focus on more enjoyable tasks the rest of the day.

What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?

Don’t dwell on mistakes! Often the experiences which don’t work out exactly as you planned end up turning out for the best and if not, they can still be great learning opportunities.