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Knoxville Women: Education and Hope by Dr. Melody Hawkins.This lecture examines the critical role women, particularly those on the margins, played in holding Knoxville together through education during the city’s first 250 years. From enslaved and formerly enslaved Black women who passed down literacy and cultural knowledge, to working-class women who nurtured learning beyond formal institutions, these educators shaped generations despite systemic barriers.
Participants will leave with a renewed understanding of how everyday acts of teaching and learning built community, preserved dignity, and empowered futures—and how those same forces remain essential in our present moment.
Dr. Melody Hawkins is an award-winning educator, author, and school leader dedicated to providing equitable, high-quality learning experience for all students. She began her career as a science teacher at Vine Middle Magnet School, later serving as Assistant Administrator at Austin-East Magnet High School and District K–12 Science Facilitator for Region 5 in Knox County Schools.
Dr. Hawkins holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Tennessee, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Carson-Newman University, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Austin Peay State University, and a Doctorate in Organizational Innovation from National University.
She is the author of Black Girl in the Middle, published by Corwin Press, a guest lecturer for National University, and a contributor to numerous educational publications. Recognized nationally for her impact, Dr. Hawkins was named the 2021 National University Teacher of the Year and one of Knoxville’s “40 Under 40” most influential leaders.
• Lecture will start at 6pm
• The special speaking event will be at Blount Mansion Visitors Center, 200 West Hill Avenue, Knoxville TN 37902.
• Limited free parking onsite
• $10 Donation suggested at the door. Cash and card accepted
• RSVP to [email protected]
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
200 W Hill Ave, Knoxville, TN, United States, Tennessee 37902
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