J. Brandon Ross, II

06 Oct J. Brandon Ross, II

What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?

Henry Ford stated “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”  I want Knoxville to be a city with multiple cultures and aspects similar to others but unique to Tennessee.  A place in which one’s race, religion, and cultural beliefs have a safe place to grow and be challenged like never before.

What are you reading that is on your nightstand?

The Mis-Education of the Negro & Traction

What is your favorite Knoxville memory?

Memphis State vs UT Knoxville basketball rivalry circa 2006-2012. West Tennessee vs East Tennessee, a rivalry that should stick around forever. I also had two of my high school classmates competing against each other in Willie Kemp and Wayne Chism.

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

“Never stop reading. Never stop learning.” Josh Smith

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

You don’t fit the mold. Live your best life day-to-day.