 Center for Service Innovation
Jesslyn Harper
Jesslyn has quickly become a valued member of the 311 Call Center, demonstrating exceptional customer service, reliability, and a genuine desire to help others. Her willingness to take on additional responsibilities, such as managing the Smoke Alarm Program and supporting 211 services, reflects her commitment to service, respect, and collaboration. Jesslyn’s positive attitude and compassion make her a trusted and respected colleague. |
 Community Safety & Empowerment
Josie Russell
Josie goes above and beyond to ensure underrepresented voices are heard, building strong connections between City leadership and the community. She embodies the Administration’s core values by fostering trust through transparency, building collaborative relationships across departments and communities, and leading with empathy, integrity, and purpose. |
 Employee Benefits & Risk Management
Danny Marshall
Danny exemplifies the Administration’s values through his integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to employee support. As the primary contact for benefits, he guides staff with patience and expertise at every stage of their careers, from onboarding to retirement. His respectful, service-oriented approach has made him a trusted and valued resource across the organization. |
 Engineering Department - Civil
Melody Allen
Melody demonstrates outstanding leadership and innovation in the Civil Engineering Division, using her diverse expertise to improve both internal processes and public engagement. Her proactive coordination on high-profile projects and creative solutions—such as implementing QR codes for real-time paving updates—reflect a forward-thinking approach that embodies the Administration’s values of service, collaboration, and equity. |
 Engineering Department - Stormwater
Randall Whitehead
Randall is a highly skilled and respected member of the Stormwater Division who consistently exceeds expectations through his technical expertise and innovative contributions. His work on pipe rehabilitation design, oversight of the Stormwater Asset Management project, and coordination for the Knoxville Smokies Stadium showcases his ability to improve systems and drive impactful results. With a positive attitude and commitment to excellence, Randall embodies the Administration’s core values. |
 Engineering Department - Transportation
Cody Gentry
Cody is a standout in the Transportation Engineering Division for his deep expertise, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to public safety. As the City’s first Vision Zero Coordinator, he leads efforts to eliminate fatal and serious injury crashes by 2040, helping to reshape the safety of our streets—one project, one conversation, and one solution at a time. |
 Engineering Department - Development Services
Shane Cutshaw
Shane brings professionalism, integrity, and collaboration to Engineering Development Services. After stepping into a key GIS role, he quickly adapted, mentored others, and improved team operations. His respectful, dependable approach and commitment to service make him a valued asset and a model of public service excellence. |
 Finance Department
Rebecca Basalone
Becky is a highly dependable and skilled analyst whose deep understanding of her responsibilities drives continuous improvement across the Finance team. She consistently meets deadlines, supports new team members, and adapts seamlessly to change—all while delivering excellent customer service. Her initiative, reliability, and collaborative spirit make her an invaluable asset to the department. |
 Fire Department
Lee Ann Hayes
Lee Ann exemplifies the Administration’s core values through her unwavering integrity, servant leadership, and dedication to the Knoxville Fire Department. Her positive attitude, exceptional work ethic, and willingness to go above and beyond make her an essential part of the team and a true asset to the department’s mission. |
 Fleet Services
Daniel Lawson
Daniel exemplifies the values of integrity, service, and stewardship through his leadership and hands-on approach in Fleet operations. As Garage Supervisor, he has improved inventory systems, enhanced preventative maintenance scheduling, and consistently steps up to ensure smooth operations. His problem-solving skills, dedication, and proactive mindset make him an invaluable asset to the department. |
 Information Systems
Frankie Rush
Frankie is a highly skilled and dependable Senior Systems Engineer who consistently delivers top-tier technical support with a positive, customer-first attitude. His expertise, especially in managing critical systems and supporting first responders, has made him an essential part of the City’s IT operations. Frankie’s leadership in network security and infrastructure upgrades ensures the City’s technology remains secure, efficient, and resilient. |
 Law Department
Lisa Hatfield
Lisa is a highly skilled attorney whose problem-solving abilities and depth of experience in municipal law make her an invaluable asset to the Law Department. Her supportive nature, especially toward less experienced colleagues, and her consistently positive attitude contribute significantly to team morale and a collaborative work environment. |
 Municipal Court
Kentrice “Treecie” Elder
Treecie has made a powerful impact both in the community and within Court operations. Her compassionate service—like securing work boots for a homeless man who had come before the court to help him start a new job—demonstrates her commitment to helping others. At the same time, she has taken on new responsibilities within the Court, improving internal processes and setting a high standard for work ethic and effectiveness. |
 Parks & Recreation - Athletics Division
Tyler Green
Tyler stands out for his leadership, empathy, and dedication to enhancing the athletic experience for staff and city residents. In his role as Athletic Officials Coordinator, he has improved training for new referees and umpires, supported staff development, and even provided life-saving first aid during a medical emergency. Tyler’s commitment to service, collaboration, and public safety exemplifies the Administration’s core values and makes him a true asset to the City. |
 Parks & Recreation – Administrative Division
Denise Jones
Denise Jones has exemplified the City’s values through her 24+ years of dedicated work with Parks and Recreation. Starting as a temporary employee, she has become a vital liaison between Knox County Schools, Parks and Rec, and athletic commissions, ensuring smooth coordination and facility access. Her stewardship is evident in her management of multiple reservation systems and her respectful, customer-focused approach. |
 Plans Review & Building Inspections
Christopher McNeal
Chris’s positive attitude and collaborative nature have a powerful effect on team morale, creating a supportive and productive work environment. He consistently goes above and beyond to meet customer needs while managing a heavy workload with precision, and his willingness to assist teammates fosters a culture of mutual respect and teamwork. |
 Police Department - Management Services
Brooke Bright
Brooke’s efforts for KPD directly contributed to the hiring of 126 new officers in 2025—exceeding the department’s goal by 26—and achieving full authorized strength for the first time in over a decade. Brooke’s strategic initiatives, including recruitment site visits, software implementation, and process digitization, reflect her dedication to collaboration, equity, and operational excellence. |
 Public Service - Horticulture
Wallace "Fred" Hickman
Fred’s dedication over 14 years is evident in the pride he takes in maintaining the city’s parks and landscapes to the highest standard. His creativity, leadership, and strong work ethic have inspired others and left a lasting impact on the beauty of public spaces across Knoxville. |
 Public Service - Administration
Melanie Overall
Melanie is a dependable problem-solver who supports over 280 employees by tackling daily challenges with patience and determination. Whether it’s tracking down answers or taking on tasks no one else owns, she ensures the department runs smoothly and efficiently. |
 Public Service - Service Area Central
Johnny Strader
Johnny leads by example, managing demanding downtown sanitation programs with dedication and pride. His willingness to work overtime, take initiative, and think quickly under pressure showcases strong leadership that keeps high-profile operations running smoothly. |
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Police Department - Investigations Bureau
Amy Johnson
Amy exemplifies integrity, service, and collaboration through her behind-the-scenes dedication to improving data-driven policing at KPD. Her innovative work in crime analysis, data visualization, and system optimization has significantly enhanced operational efficiency and decision-making. Amy’s commitment to excellence, equity, and continuous improvement makes her an invaluable asset to both her team and the broader public safety mission.
Public Service - Service Area South
Johnathan Reno
Johnathan consistently goes above and beyond in his 10 years with the City, stepping up for emergency snow response, weekend shifts, and specialty tasks without hesitation. His reliability, strong work ethic, and commitment to safety make him an invaluable team member. Johnathan’s dedication sets a high standard and reflects the core values of service and stewardship. |