Alofa Porter

What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now? I envision a Knoxville that offers big town opportunities but retains its small town feel. Knoxville will continue to grow its attractiveness to bring companies and opportunities to our area. But I also hope that in 10 years from now Knoxville has more options for affordable and attainable housing for lower- and middle- income ranges. What is Knoxville's best kept secret? Knoxville’s best kept secret is the number of amazing leaders, CEOs and business owners that are willing to freely give of their time to mentor others. I have been the beneficiary of such kindness both personally and professionally. What would you do to strengthen Knoxville? I would encourage others, myself included, to be actively involved in our community. Whether that is attending church, being involved in improving your neighborhood, building a habitat house, mentoring/serving others—all those actions make a difference in lives and communities. What is your favorite Knoxville memory? Having grown up here, there are so many to choose from! My favorite memories range from concerts at the World’s Fair lawn, UT game days, lake days, meeting and marrying my husband here and returning back home after living away for several years. What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand? Lead Like it Matters to God by Richard Stearns and 5 Voices by Jeremie Kubicek and Steve Cockram. What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor? “You will be the same person making the same money five years from now if not for the people you meet and the books you read.” Josh Smith What advice would you give to your 16 year old self? Don’t wait so long to start your relationship with the Lord. Trust me, your life is better with Him than without. Your dad has one year left on this Earth, don’t take this time for granted. Travel the world! Don’t sign up for that credit card on UT’s campus for a free T-shirt; you’ll be paying on that sucker FOREVER!