We are excited to introduce the new members of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Alumni Board of Directors. Each member brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to our community and a passion for supporting and advocating for UTC.
Here is a brief introduction to each of our new board members:
Walker Rhodes
Taylor Rowell
Victor Sims
Brian Wright
Born and raised in Etowah, TN, and a graduate of McMinn Central High School, Marla earned her bachelor’s in Social Work in 1995 and master’s in Guidance and Counseling in 1998. Her involvement in the Student Government Association, the Littleton H. Mason Singers, and her work in Records and Student Registration were pivotal to her development. Marla is driven by a desire to give back and support the next generation of Mocs.
Read MoreDavid is an attorney and member at Grant Konvalinka & Harrison, P.C. He graduated in 1988 with a B.S. in Business Administration, majoring in Marketing, and in 1991 with a J.D. from UTK. David’s extensive involvement in professional and community organizations includes serving on the UTC College of Arts & Sciences Dean’s Advisory Council, the Bright School Board of Trustees, and the Chattanooga Chapter of the American Inns of Court, among others. His campus involvement included the Honor Court, Kappa Sigma Fraternity and Student Government Association. David’s hobbies include travel, history, wine, music, news, trivia, reading, movies and attending various sporting events.
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Joyce is retired, having formerly worked at the Ronald McDonald House. She graduated in 1980 with a B.S. in Elementary Education from UTC’s College of Health, Education and Professional Studies. Joyce has been actively involved in several community and professional organizations, including serving on the Sweet Monday Board of Directors and as Fundraising Director, as well as being involved with the Partnership for Families, Children and Adults as the Senior Volunteer Program Manager, Chi Omega Alumnae Association, Chattanooga Women’s Leadership Institute, and Chattanooga Church as the leader of Sweet Monday. On campus, Joyce was involved in Chi Omega, the Undergraduate Alumni Council, the Student Conduct Board, and the Student Orientation Board. Her hobbies include spending time with friends and family, entertaining and singing.
Lessie was the Vice President/Principal of Vizient, Inc. She graduated in 1993 from UTC’s Gary W. Rollins College of Business with a B.S. in Business Administration. Lessie is dedicated to both her professional and personal life, balancing her career with active involvement in various community and professional organizations. In her free time, Lessie enjoys various hobbies and pastimes that enrich her life and contribute to her well-rounded character.
Walker is the Unum Scholar Manager at Unum Group. He graduated in 2013 from UTC’s College of Health, Education and Professional Studies with a B.S. in Exercise and Health Sciences Pre-Health Professional. Walker is actively involved in the community, serving as a Big Brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Chattanooga, a mentor with TN Achieves, and a member of the college ministry team at Restoration Southside Church. While a student, he participated in CRU. Walker and his wife enjoy traveling to support UTC athletics, particularly the women’s basketball team. He also enjoys gardening, running and playing with their orange cat named Art.
Taylor is the Senior Program Manager for Innovation at TVA. She graduated in 2009 with a B.S. in Sport and Leisure Service Administration from UTC’s Department of Health and Human Performance. Taylor has served on the boards of Peak7 Adventures and Operation Ward57. Her involvement in community and professional organizations, as well as her campus activities, highlights her commitment to both personal and professional development. Outside of work, Taylor enjoys gardening, experimenting in the kitchen, reading and adventuring around town with her dogs, Dolly and Gaston.
Victor is an accountant at TVA. He graduated in 2022 with a B.S. in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting. He serves on the UTC Alumni Board of Directors. Victor enjoys cooking, practicing martial arts, watching sports, working out and hiking, showcasing his diverse interests and active lifestyle.
Brian is the Executive Director for Finley Stadium and First Horizon Pavilion. He graduated in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree and in 2015 with a master’s degree. He serves on several boards, including the International Association of Venue Managers and the Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation’s Grants Committee. Brian has also been involved with the UTC Alumni GOLD Leadership Academy. His campus involvement includes Habitat for Humanity and the UTC Athletics Fan Council. Brian enjoys running, traveling, environmental stewardship and professional mentorship.
