Brent Ball

10 Year Vision for Knoxville To be a place where everyone feels like they have a chance to be successful and follow their dreams. Knoxville has to continue to be able to provide affordable housing, employment, education, and the amenities needed to enjoy life. What is Knoxville's Best Kept Secret? I'm not sure if it is a much of a secret as it used to be, but Knoxville is blessed to be surrounded by so many natural resources. From the Smoky Mountains, the many lakes, trails, and etc, it should be very easy to attract employers and employees. What would you do to strengthen Knoxville? There is a multitude of talent that is educated in Knoxville and then move away after graduation. We have to come up with ways to keep talented individuals who are born here or go to school here. By highlighting the many positives about this area (as well as the state of Tennessee) we have to make sure to recruit top companies that will help retain graduating students. I know the fine folks at the Knoxville Chamber think about this every day. What is your favorite Knoxville memory? I have lived here my whole life, so there are many. The 1998 Tennessee vs. Florida game stands out. Recently, it has been great just living life with my wife Celina, son Walker, and daughter Rowan. We spend a large amount of our time on Norris Lake. What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand? I like any type of history book. Right now I am reading "Searching for the Sound" by Phil Lesh (bassist of the Grateful Dead). Not only does it give a detailed history of the band, but it paints a good picture of what is like to be in the counter-culture scene of the 1960s. What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor? My most influential mentor is Jim Clayton. Jim gave me an opportunity that jumpstarted my career and will forever be grateful for that. Jim was never short on advice, but "Our lives work only to the extent that we are willing to keep our agreements" always stands out. What advice would you give to your 16 year old self? Travel the world while you are young. Experience different places, cultures, and people.