Kimberly K. Henry

06 Oct Kimberly K. Henry

What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?

I see Knoxville emerging as the premier mid-sized city in the Southeast and nationally. The momentum established by our Downtown renaissance along with positive steps in economic development will continue to draw new residents as well as retain locals.

What are you reading that is on your nightstand?

In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson

What is your favorite Knoxville memory?

I moved Downtown in 2004. The first night, I met P Smith at her annual Blessing of the Pansies, in the lobby of her Gay St condo building and on the sidewalk out front. The people I met at that party really impressed me. It quickly became apparent that there was an interesting and more diverse group of people moving into Downtown. And that I would get to be a part of that.

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

Speak up – what you have to say is important. Mrs. Petree, my High School English teacher.

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

You do you! Don’t assume that other people are critical of you or what you enjoy doing. They are going through the same struggles you are.