Banquet Program
CORE Champion
Awards Banquet
Presented by
The General Morgan Inn
April 4, 2013
Welcome
On behalf of the GCS Education Foundation Board of Trustees, welcome to our first CORE Champion Awards Banquet. We are pleased to have you join us in celebration of those whom we honor for their outstanding ability to commit to a cause, to optimize their resources, to reinvest in their community, and to equip others for success.
Tonight we honor four individuals who are true champions. They are advocates for education, forward-thinkers, good stewards, and devoted to the betterment of others.
We also honor you. Your presence here tonight represents a vital link between our community and our school system. As a supporter of the GCS Education Foundation, you are an essential part of our success. Together we can impact the lives of future champions.
At the end of the evening, you will have an opportunity to make a contribution to the GCS Education Foundation. Your financial support, whether large or small, makes an incredible difference in what we are able to achieve. A steady commitment is required in order to reach “beyond the basics” to provide our students with the best education possible and to prepare them for life after high school in an ever-changing global society.
We are grateful to our generous sponsors and volunteers who have helped to make this event a special occasion. We’re also thankful for the educators in our school system who empower our students and propel them to become outstanding alumni.
Congratulations to our CORE Champions as we celebrate their many accomplishments!
Sincerely,
Allison Adams
Executive Director
GCS Education Foundation
Milestones
1996 – Mrs. Kathryn (Kay) W. Leonard, Greeneville City BOE Chair, and Dr. Ernest Martin, Director of Schools, spearheaded a movement to form a foundation whose focus would be to serve and support the continuance of the “Tradition of Excellence” in Greeneville City School System. On September 16, 1996, a group of private citizens, working closely with the Greeneville City Board of Education and the Greeneville City School System administration, established the Greeneville City Schools Education Foundation as a 501(c)(3) organization, and elected a Board of Trustees*.
1997 – The Education Foundation pledged $375k in support of the “Enterprise Network” and sought to secure financial contributions from the community. The organization began its tradition of sponsoring an Art Show in the fall, a Science Fair in the spring, an annual spelling bee, and a student mentoring program called “Partners for Kids.” A scholarship fund was established to benefit GHS graduates on a technical path.
1998 – A GHS Alumni Directory was printed and sold to interested parties in an effort to raise additional funds for the Education Foundation. The Greeneville Schools In Action (GSIA) began a multi-year fundraising effort selling Greene Cards and pledged a portion of the profits to help offset the expense of the “Enterprise Network.”
1999-2000 – The Education Foundation continued to explore various fundraising strategies and successfully supported the organization’s established programs.
2001 – The organization began its tradition of celebrating students for their exemplary character virtues. The Annual Character Education Awards Luncheon honors 2 students from each school for their outstanding character virtues. The Education Foundation fosters the practice of community reinvestment by providing $100 donations to a charity of each student’s choice in their honor.
2002 – The Education Foundation established the American Education Week Grant program. Over the years, this grant initiative (now called the SEED Grant) has introduced over $40k into the Greeneville City School System to help fund classroom materials or curriculum, enhancing programs researched or designed by its teachers.
2004 – The organization adopted a motion by Dr. Don Henard to offer primary support of locating the State Department of Education Professional Development Center (PDC) in Greeneville. With staffing support provided by GCS, and a facility provided by the Niswonger Foundation, Greeneville became the site for the PDC.
2006 – The Education Foundation raised an additional $145k to update the GCS Instructional Learning Software and expand the school system’s information technology program. The first annual Daddy & Daughter Dance, co-sponsored by the Education Foundation and the GSIA, took place in the GHS Commons with nearly 300 in attendance. The event has doubled in size and is considered to be a family tradition for daddies and daughters. The Education Foundation began an annual co-sponsorship with the Niswonger Foundation to support the system-wide Cherokee Day event.
2007 – In honor of her memory, the family of Kay Leonard donated the building at 129 W. Depot Street to the Education Foundation. Today, the Kathryn W. Leonard Administrative Office Building is home to the GCS administration, the Professional Development Center, and the GCS Education Foundation.
2008 – The organization adopted the Burley Stadium Artificial Turf project. Mr. Scott M. Niswonger stepped forward as the project’s lead benefactor and provided for the renovation of GHS’s Burley Stadium in addition to the installation of its artificial playing surface.
2009 – The Education Foundation launched the FOCUS Grant program, funding small classroom programs that provide a big impact. To-date, this grant initiative has funded over $10k of innovative ideas that enhance the students’ classroom learning.
2010 – In an effort to help satisfy a growing need for public school advocates in our community, the Education Foundation provided advocacy training for its Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees participated in a strategic planning session that resulted in its current mission and beliefs statements.
2012 – The Education Foundation identified a need for an expanded presence in the community and hired a full-time executive director to facilitate that effort. The organization adopted its tagline – “Beyond The Basics”, and rebranded with its current logo, designed by graphic design artist, Ben Clark (GHS Class of 2009). The organization opened an office in the Kathryn W. Leonard Administrative Offices building at 129 W. Depot Street in Greeneville.
*Charter Board of Trustees of the Greeneville City Schools Education Foundation:
Kathryn (Kay) W. Leonard Dr. Ernest Martin
Kay Puckett Brandon Hull Bob Keasling Ray Adams
Stan Puckett Pam Moore Nikki Niswonger Steve Hendrickson
Teresa Estepp Mike Roberts Gayle Greene Nat R. Coleman, Jr.
2012-2013 GCS Education Foundation
Board of Trustees
Executive Committee
Dr. Linda Stroud, Dir. of Schools* Lisa Stephens, Treasurer Craig Ogle, BOE Chair* Michelle Loven, Secretary
Allison Adams, Executive Director* Jeff Idell, At-Large
Dr. Craig Shepherd, Chair Bob Leonard, Past-Chair
Cynthia Pectol, Vice Chair
Board of Trustees
Angelia Rodriguez Robbie Mitchell Patsy Crum
Mike Roberts Sherry Hood Jeff Taylor
Paige Hull Shane Hite Mark Williams
Julie McKee Dr. Lisa Johnson Carla Todaro
Lynn Broyles Angel Carter (GSIA)*
Trustees Emeritus
Kay Puckett Sally Harbison
*Ex Officio Member
We believe:
· Public education is essential to the well-being of our community.
· We must serve as ambassadors within our community by advocating for the school system, providing for an exchange of ideas, and communicating opportunities for support to the community at-large.
· Every child should have access to rich educational experiences.
A Sampler Of Our Successes
The GCS Education Foundation has provided funding for these programs and equipment:
· United Streaming – a web-based subscription used in classrooms system-wide
· Scholars Bowl Training
· Flip Video Cameras
· “Cherokee Day” (co-sponsors with the Niswonger Foundation)
· Voice Recognition Software
· “The Greene Scene” – an outdoor gardening classroom at GMS
· LCD Projectors
· Flight Simulators (for Jr. ROTC at GHS)
· Virtual Field Trip Program
· Geometers Sketchpad Software
· HomeLink – providing home internet connectivity to GCS students in-need
· Kindle E-Reader Pilot Program
· TI 30XIIS Scientific Calculators
· U.S. Tennis Association Curriculum & Equipment (at all elementary schools in the system)
· Literacy Circle Library
· Listening Lab For Early Literacy
· Digital Document Cameras
· Pasco Lab Equipment
Program
CORE Champions Reception
In the lobby of the General Morgan Inn
Dinner
In the ballroom of the General Morgan Inn
Master Of Ceremonies Welcome
Dr. Craig Shepherd, GCS Education Foundation Chairman
Invocation
Craig Ogle, BOE Chairman
Menu
Orange Citrus Chicken
Parmesan Roasted New Potatoes
Sugar Snap Peas and Parisian Carrots
Rolls and Butter
Panna Cotta with a Wild Berry Compote
Ice Tea, Coffee and Water
Keynote Address
Coach Phillip Fulmer,
Former University of Tennessee Football Coach
Introduction of Champions
Dr. Linda Stroud, Director of Schools
Outstanding Young Alumni
Captain Jordan Yokley, M.D.
Class of 2001
Distinguished Alumni
Mr. John C. Compton
Class of 1979
Distinguished Service
Mr. Terry Leonard
Class of 1956
Outstanding Patron
Mr. Scott M. Niswonger
Sending Forth
Mr. Bob Leonard,
GCS Education Foundation Past Chairman
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Captain Jordan Yokley, M.D.
Captain Jordan Yokley, M.D. is a graduate of Greeneville High School (2001) and the United States Military Academy, West Point, N.Y. (2005), where he earned a Bachelor of Science, Life Sciences, and Environmental Engineering Field of Study. Jordan completed U.S. Army Air Assault School in 2004 and entered Vanderbilt School of Medicine in 2005. In 2006 Jordan completed U.S. Army Officer Basic Course. He earned a Doctorate of Medicine from Vanderbilt in May 2009 and spent his transitional intern year at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI.
In 2009, Jordan completed Combat Casualty Care Course and earned his Advance Trauma Life Support Certification in San Antonio, TX, and received Crisis Team Training at Tripler in Honolulu. In 2010 he attended U.S. Army Flight Surgeon School in Fort Rucker, AL, and earned certifications in Altitude Training and Helicopter Overwater Survival Training.
In addition to his many accomplishments, Jordan has published several research papers. He’s also a certified SCUBA diver, an avid runner, and an avid traveler, having visited all 50 US states, Russia, France, Costa Rica, Jordan, Israel Palestine, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Ireland.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Battalion Flight Surgeon, 563rd ASB, Ft. Campbell, KY 2010-2011 – Responsible for health, welfare, and medical admin for largest aviation battalion in garrison and deployed environment (Kandahar Airfield, SE Afghanistan, in support of OEF 2011). Responsible for medical education of battalion medics. Provided medical support in >50hrs flight time for MEDEVAC, CASEVAC, and HUMINT missions while deployed.
Internship – University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan, Pediatric Infectious Disease, Feb 2009- Worked directly with providers, nurses, and medical students to provide inpatient and outpatient care to local Jordanian kids. Served as initial representative for Vanderbilt University/University of Jordan Pediatric partnership.
I Internship – Indian Health Services, Nome, Alaska, Sep 2008 – Provided primary care for Nome and surrounding Indian communities. Participated in radio calls, village visits, and MEDEVACs to numerous villages in remote Northern Alaska.
Internship – Walter Reed Army Hospital, Washington, D.C. July-August 2004
Internship – Tennessee Department of Homeland Security June-August 2003 – Provided intelligent assessments on state assets and suspected targets. Traveled with State Director of Homeland Security to brief local officials, police, and homeland security personnel.
HONORS AND AWARDS
Honor Graduate, 2010 – U.S. Army Flight Surgeon Course, Finished with 98% course average, 2nd out of 44 students
Billboard Advertisement Campaign Representative, 2007 – U.S. Army Medical Recruitment Program
Microbes and Defense Academic Honor Society, 2006-Present – Induction based on academic performance in microbiology and immunology course
Dean’s Award, 2006 – Selected by classmates during first year in order to recognize outstanding leadership and camaraderie
Army Commendation Medal, 2005 – Awarded for medical response to interstate accident scene
Golden Key National Honor Society, 2004-2005
Phi Kappa Phi, Junior Year Inductee, 2005
The Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Award for Excellence in Environmental Engineering, 2005 – Awarded for top performance in Environmental Engineering Field of Study
LEADERSHIP, TEACHING, & VOLUNTEERISM
Tripler Intern General Medical Education Committee Representative, 2009-2010 – Voting member of monthly GME meetings and disciplinary boards
Admissions Field Force Representative, USMA 2008-2011 – Interview perspective cadet candidates, talk to local schools/organizations about USMA
Wing-A-Thon, Creator/Organizer, 2005-2008 – Charitable wing-eating competition that has collectively raised ~$3000 over three years for various organizations including supporting American Red Cross with Hurricane Katrina victims, local Nashville free clinic, and Fallen Heroes Fund
Wilderness Medical Skills Course, CME Student/Instructor, Wilderness Medical Society, 2007
ASMA National Convention, Vanderbilt Delegate, Washington D.C., 2007
Miles for Melanoma, Country Music ½ Marathon for Dermatology Interest Group, 2006
VUSM Class Social Chair, 2006-2009 – Responsible for planning all class functions including annual school-wide “Cadaver Ball”
Military Medical Student Association Chair, 2006-2009
Greeneville Boys & Girls Club, 2005-2007
Distinguished Alumni Award
Mr. John C. Compton
John Compton is a graduate of Greeneville High School, Class of 1979. He earned a BS in Finance from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 1983.
John joined PepsiCo in 1983 as a Frito-Lay Production Supervisor in the Pulaski Tennessee plant and has held a variety of leadership positions throughout his career. He spent time as CEO of PepsiCo North America and president and CEO of Quaker Tropicana Gatorade. He worked in Frito-Lay for 22 years in various sales marketing, operations and general management assignments, including vice chairman and president of Frito-Lay’s North American Salty Snacks Division, and chief marketing officer and senior vice president of Sales.
John served on the Board of Directors of the Pepsi-Cola Bottling Group prior to its merger with PepsiCo in 2010. He was CEO of PepsiCo Americas Foods (PAF), the largest sector of PepsiCo’s four business units with $23 billion in revenues in 2011. In addition, he led both PepsiCo’s Power of One – Americas Council and Global Snacks Group.
In March of 2012, John assumed the role of president of PepsiCo and was responsible for overseeing all of PepsiCo’s global category groups, Global Operations, Global Marketing, and Corporate Strategy. He was responsible for driving breakthrough innovation and brand building while looking for ways to significantly reduce the overall cost structure of the company.
In September of 2012, John’s deep and personal ties to Tennessee led him to end his 29-year long career at PepsiCo, and take on the role of CEO of Pilot Flying J, based in Knoxville, TN. He was most recently named as strategic advisor for Pilot Flying J, the Cleveland Browns football team, and the Haslam family. John also serves on the board of First Horizon National Corporation – First Tennessee Bank.
Midway into his career, John made it a priority to return to UT to share his experiences with students. His goal has been to inspire students to be as successful as they can in their chosen professions, and then give back to the community as much as they possibly can. He has been an active supporter of the College of Business Administration, serving as an executive-in-residence lecturer and a member of the Advisory Council to the Dean for more than a decade. He also given generously of his time to serve on the college’s Campaign for Tennessee volunteer committee to support the college’s fundraising efforts. The UT College of Business named him a Distinguished Alumni in 2010. Then, one year later, in recognition for attaining extraordinary distinction and success in his chosen field, and for bringing credit and acclaim to UT Knoxville through his accomplishments, and for benefitting society at large, John received the University’s highest honor – Distinguished Alumnus of 2011.
John lives in Knoxville with his wife, Cindy, and their three children.
Distinguished Service
Mr. Terry Leonard
Terry Leonard is a graduate of Greeneville High School, Class of 1956. He began his business career by establishing The Men’s Shop in 1963. In the 1970’s, he expanded his business interest to include real estate development before branching into manufacturing in the 1980’s. Today, Terry is the chairman of Leonard Associates, LLC, a local holding company that operates BTL Industries, LMR Plastics, and Leonard Manufacturing, and owns some 700,000 square feet of commercial rental property, which includes 7 warehouse buildings that the company occupies and leases to others.
Since the 1970’s, Terry has been extremely active in the promotion of economic development in Greene County and his economic development efforts have been instrumental in several industries locating in Greene County. Terry is the chairman of the Industrial Park Board, and serves on the Greene County Foundation. In 1995, he was named Economic Development Volunteer of the Year by the State of Tennessee, honoring Terry for hours of extraordinary volunteer efforts contributed to improve the economic well-being of his community..
Having served as a member of the Founding Committee, Terry’s leadership was responsible for creating the Greene County Partnership. Terry has served on the board of directors of Greeneville Light and Power and as chairman of the board of directors of Greene County Bank / GreenBank.
Terry was involved with the formation of the Greeneville City Schools Education Foundation and was a fundraising leader on the initial and second technology fundraising drives, which benefited the Greeneville City School System. He continues to be a champion for education in our community.
Terry’s wife, Kathryn (Kay) Leonard, a longtime educator who served on the Greeneville City Board of Education from 1987 until 1990, and as the school board’s chairman for 11 years, died in February of 2005. In July 2006, Terry and his three children – Kimery Connard, Bob Leonard and Watson Leonard – donated the family firm’s former headquarters to the Greeneville City School System to become the city schools’ new administrative headquarters.
Terry has been a lifelong member of Asbury United Methodist Church where he has held a number of leadership positions. He and his wife, Evelyn, live in Greeneville and enjoy traveling and spending time with their children and grandchildren.
Outstanding Patron
Mr. Scott M. Niswonger
Scott Niswonger was born in Van Wert, Ohio. He learned to fly at the Van Wert County Airport, soloing on his 16th birthday. During his career, Scott has flown J-3 Cubs to the Boeing 747. He currently has an aerobatic Navy T-34 and Gulfstream IV-SP jet.
He is a graduate from Purdue University with a degree in Aviation Technology and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Technology in 2004. In addition, Mr. Niswonger earned a BSBA from Tusculum College and later an Honorary Doctorate of Human Letters in 2006.
In 1968, he moved to Greeneville, Tennessee as the pilot for the president of The Magnavox Company. In 1973, Niswonger started a cargo airline, General Aviation. After selling General Aviation, he became the Senior Vice President of North American Operations for Flying Tiger Lines – an international cargo airline. Later, in 1981, he co-founded a second transportation company, Landair Services, with an initial investment of $2,000, and in 1990 formed Forward Air Corporation (FWRD). Those companies today have sales of over $700 million. It’s impressive to note that these were the first two companies to be taken public in Greene County’s 226 year history. Today, Niswonger is the majority shareholder of Landair Transport, Inc. and is Chairman Emeritus of Forward Air Corporation.
Mr. Niswonger is very active in community and civic affairs having served in positions of leadership on the local, state, and national levels. Some of his current activities include serving as President of The Niswonger Foundation; as board member of First Horizon National (FHN), the parent of First Tennessee Bank; as Chairman of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Foundation; as a Trustee at Tusculum College; as the President of the Governing Board for the Niswonger Performing Arts Center; as co-chairs of the Purdue University Foundation Development Council and member of the Dean’s Executive Council for the College of Technology at Purdue; as board member of the East Tennessee State University Foundation; and as an ordained elder in the Presbyterian church. He also is a past chairman of Economic Development and Growth Board for the State of Tennessee.
He has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions, some of which include being selected by Junior Achievement International as their worldwide recipient of the International Distinguished Graduate Award; the past recipient of Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year for the Southeastern U.S.; and Coopers & Lybrand’s Entrepreneurial Company of the Year. He was selected by Forbes as the top “Best 200 Small Public Companies” for nine consecutive years and awarded Purdue University’s Distinguished Technology Alumni Award; the Mountain States Foundation Spirit Award; the State of Tennessee Board of Regents Award for Excellence in Philanthropy; the Paul Harris Fellow Award from Rotary International; and the George L. Carter Award (highest honor bestowed) from East Tennessee State University.
Scott is especially proud of The Niswonger Foundation that he established in 2001 to create opportunities for individual and regional growth through educational programs, scholarships, and other charitable activities. With an annual program budget of over $5 million, the Niswonger Foundation currently has 18 student- Niswonger Scholars in universities across America and 44 graduate alumni.
Niswonger is the lead benefactor for the new Niswonger Children’s Hospital built in Johnson City, Tennessee at the Johnson City Medical Center and serves on the hospital’s Executive Council.
With an exceptional level of involvement, giving and generosity; businessman and philanthropist Scott M. Niswonger has made a positive impact that will affect many generations to come.
Keynote Speaker
Coach Phillip Fulmer
A legend in the Volunteer State and throughout college football, Phillip Fulmer enjoys sharing his knowledge and experiences through speaking opportunities across the country.
Coach has been a winner and leader all his life. He credits his parents, community leaders, teachers and coaches in the small middle Tennessee town of Winchester for helping him develop those skills and traits. He learned the principles of family, hard work, dedication to goals, teamwork and using the Christian foundation taught by his parents.
Coach Fulmer's positive experiences continued into the world of major-college football when he accepted a football scholarship in 1968 to play at the University of Tennessee. His Tennessee teams excelled by going 31-5, and Coach Fulmer served as team co-captain during his senior year of 1971.
Coach stayed on as a Graduate Assistant at UT in charge of the freshman team’s defense and linebackers. During that time, former Vols All-American Player and Legendary Assistant George Cafego taught Coach Fulmer the values and skills needed to scout the opposition. It became a key development to Coach Fulmer’s future success. He then took those experiences away from his comfort zone and coached five seasons at Wichita State and one season at Vanderbilt before returning to Knoxville for 13 years as a Tennessee Assistant – the last four as Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator.
Coach Fulmer served as Head Football Coach at Tennessee for 17 years, from 1992-2008. He and his staff built an organization that produced the most successful era in modern Tennessee football history. Coach and his staff were tireless recruiters and mentored some of the top names in college and NFL history. In Coach’s last 11 years, he played in the SEC Championship game five times, winning twice. He also led the Vols to one of the greatest moments in school history, the 1998 National Championship in the very first BCS title game.
In his 17 seasons, his record was 152-52 with a 74 percent winning percentage, he had 92 players make a NFL roster, 18 players earned All-American honors and another 68 players were selected All-SEC. Coach Fulmer is also very proud of the family approach he took to guiding his players to off the field successes as well as on the field successes.
Coach Fulmer has taken the same attitudes and principles to the business world and continues to be successful. He now enjoys being a partner with the Northshore Management Company in Knoxville. Northshore serves as a holding company for investment strategies and private equity companies. His partners, Mike West and George Hashbarger, both are longtime successful businessmen. Mike was a former Vol who played under Coach Fulmer, and they have shared a friendship since the mid-1980s.
Coach is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys all nature’s pleasures, he also is protective of the treasures we have in our parks, mountains, lakes, streams and fields. He is very civic and community minded, serving on several boards and committees for groups that help both youth and the elderly.
Coach Fulmer has also enjoyed working with CBS Sports as an expert studio analyst on Football Saturdays in the fall. His experience and knowledge of the game added a great dimension for fans and experts alike.
Coach recently found time to spend a few days filming a special movie, The Blind Side, about a young man he had recruited. The story of Michael Oher received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, and Sandra Bullock won her first Academy Award for Best Actress. In the film, Coach Fulmer played himself and ranks the opportunity as one of his most enjoyable events.
Coach Fulmer and his wife, Vicky, live an exciting and full life. They are the proud parents of four children – Phillip Jr., Courtney, Brittany and Allison. They also have four grandchildren -- Grant, Maddie, JP, and Tori. Over the years, the Fulmer family has earned respect and admiration both inside and out of the athletics world.
Coach Fulmer has competed and won championships at all levels. But what set him apart then and what continues to set him apart now, is that he does it with class and integrity.
Special Thanks To…
Greeneville City Board of Education
Greeneville City School System Staff & Administration
The General Morgan Inn
Flowers By Tammy
Mrs. Kay Puckett
Mr. Anthony Feathers
Miss Abbi Jones
Ms. Julie Fannon
Miss Tamara Hartman
Mrs. Brenda Ottinger
Mrs. Janet Ricker
Ms. Robbie Mitchell
Mrs. Carla Todaro
Artistic Printers
CORE Champion Awards Selection Committee
Barbara Clanton Mark Williams Sherry Hood
Shane Hite Crystal Duggar Stella Hunter
Sandra Fox
We are extremely grateful to all of our event sponsors.
Gold Medal Sponsors ($1000)
& Mr. & Mrs. Dale Keasling
Silver Medal Sponsors ($500)
Bronze Medal Sponsors ($250)
Mayor & Mrs. W.T. Daniels
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Anderson
Commit
Optimize
Reinvest
Equip
Champion Awards Banquet
April 4, 2013
129 W. Depot Street
P.O. Box 1420
Greeneville, Tennessee 37744-1420
(423) 823-0001
www.gcseducationfoundation.net
email us at:
education.foundation@gcschools.net
CORE Champion
Awards Banquet
Presented by
The General Morgan Inn
April 4, 2013
Welcome
On behalf of the GCS Education Foundation Board of Trustees, welcome to our first CORE Champion Awards Banquet. We are pleased to have you join us in celebration of those whom we honor for their outstanding ability to commit to a cause, to optimize their resources, to reinvest in their community, and to equip others for success.
Tonight we honor four individuals who are true champions. They are advocates for education, forward-thinkers, good stewards, and devoted to the betterment of others.
We also honor you. Your presence here tonight represents a vital link between our community and our school system. As a supporter of the GCS Education Foundation, you are an essential part of our success. Together we can impact the lives of future champions.
At the end of the evening, you will have an opportunity to make a contribution to the GCS Education Foundation. Your financial support, whether large or small, makes an incredible difference in what we are able to achieve. A steady commitment is required in order to reach “beyond the basics” to provide our students with the best education possible and to prepare them for life after high school in an ever-changing global society.
We are grateful to our generous sponsors and volunteers who have helped to make this event a special occasion. We’re also thankful for the educators in our school system who empower our students and propel them to become outstanding alumni.
Congratulations to our CORE Champions as we celebrate their many accomplishments!
Sincerely,
Allison Adams
Executive Director
GCS Education Foundation
Milestones
1996 – Mrs. Kathryn (Kay) W. Leonard, Greeneville City BOE Chair, and Dr. Ernest Martin, Director of Schools, spearheaded a movement to form a foundation whose focus would be to serve and support the continuance of the “Tradition of Excellence” in Greeneville City School System. On September 16, 1996, a group of private citizens, working closely with the Greeneville City Board of Education and the Greeneville City School System administration, established the Greeneville City Schools Education Foundation as a 501(c)(3) organization, and elected a Board of Trustees*.
1997 – The Education Foundation pledged $375k in support of the “Enterprise Network” and sought to secure financial contributions from the community. The organization began its tradition of sponsoring an Art Show in the fall, a Science Fair in the spring, an annual spelling bee, and a student mentoring program called “Partners for Kids.” A scholarship fund was established to benefit GHS graduates on a technical path.
1998 – A GHS Alumni Directory was printed and sold to interested parties in an effort to raise additional funds for the Education Foundation. The Greeneville Schools In Action (GSIA) began a multi-year fundraising effort selling Greene Cards and pledged a portion of the profits to help offset the expense of the “Enterprise Network.”
1999-2000 – The Education Foundation continued to explore various fundraising strategies and successfully supported the organization’s established programs.
2001 – The organization began its tradition of celebrating students for their exemplary character virtues. The Annual Character Education Awards Luncheon honors 2 students from each school for their outstanding character virtues. The Education Foundation fosters the practice of community reinvestment by providing $100 donations to a charity of each student’s choice in their honor.
2002 – The Education Foundation established the American Education Week Grant program. Over the years, this grant initiative (now called the SEED Grant) has introduced over $40k into the Greeneville City School System to help fund classroom materials or curriculum, enhancing programs researched or designed by its teachers.
2004 – The organization adopted a motion by Dr. Don Henard to offer primary support of locating the State Department of Education Professional Development Center (PDC) in Greeneville. With staffing support provided by GCS, and a facility provided by the Niswonger Foundation, Greeneville became the site for the PDC.
2006 – The Education Foundation raised an additional $145k to update the GCS Instructional Learning Software and expand the school system’s information technology program. The first annual Daddy & Daughter Dance, co-sponsored by the Education Foundation and the GSIA, took place in the GHS Commons with nearly 300 in attendance. The event has doubled in size and is considered to be a family tradition for daddies and daughters. The Education Foundation began an annual co-sponsorship with the Niswonger Foundation to support the system-wide Cherokee Day event.
2007 – In honor of her memory, the family of Kay Leonard donated the building at 129 W. Depot Street to the Education Foundation. Today, the Kathryn W. Leonard Administrative Office Building is home to the GCS administration, the Professional Development Center, and the GCS Education Foundation.
2008 – The organization adopted the Burley Stadium Artificial Turf project. Mr. Scott M. Niswonger stepped forward as the project’s lead benefactor and provided for the renovation of GHS’s Burley Stadium in addition to the installation of its artificial playing surface.
2009 – The Education Foundation launched the FOCUS Grant program, funding small classroom programs that provide a big impact. To-date, this grant initiative has funded over $10k of innovative ideas that enhance the students’ classroom learning.
2010 – In an effort to help satisfy a growing need for public school advocates in our community, the Education Foundation provided advocacy training for its Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees participated in a strategic planning session that resulted in its current mission and beliefs statements.
2012 – The Education Foundation identified a need for an expanded presence in the community and hired a full-time executive director to facilitate that effort. The organization adopted its tagline – “Beyond The Basics”, and rebranded with its current logo, designed by graphic design artist, Ben Clark (GHS Class of 2009). The organization opened an office in the Kathryn W. Leonard Administrative Offices building at 129 W. Depot Street in Greeneville.
*Charter Board of Trustees of the Greeneville City Schools Education Foundation:
Kathryn (Kay) W. Leonard Dr. Ernest Martin
Kay Puckett Brandon Hull Bob Keasling Ray Adams
Stan Puckett Pam Moore Nikki Niswonger Steve Hendrickson
Teresa Estepp Mike Roberts Gayle Greene Nat R. Coleman, Jr.
2012-2013 GCS Education Foundation
Board of Trustees
Executive Committee
Dr. Linda Stroud, Dir. of Schools* Lisa Stephens, Treasurer Craig Ogle, BOE Chair* Michelle Loven, Secretary
Allison Adams, Executive Director* Jeff Idell, At-Large
Dr. Craig Shepherd, Chair Bob Leonard, Past-Chair
Cynthia Pectol, Vice Chair
Board of Trustees
Angelia Rodriguez Robbie Mitchell Patsy Crum
Mike Roberts Sherry Hood Jeff Taylor
Paige Hull Shane Hite Mark Williams
Julie McKee Dr. Lisa Johnson Carla Todaro
Lynn Broyles Angel Carter (GSIA)*
Trustees Emeritus
Kay Puckett Sally Harbison
*Ex Officio Member
We believe:
· Public education is essential to the well-being of our community.
· We must serve as ambassadors within our community by advocating for the school system, providing for an exchange of ideas, and communicating opportunities for support to the community at-large.
· Every child should have access to rich educational experiences.
A Sampler Of Our Successes
The GCS Education Foundation has provided funding for these programs and equipment:
· United Streaming – a web-based subscription used in classrooms system-wide
· Scholars Bowl Training
· Flip Video Cameras
· “Cherokee Day” (co-sponsors with the Niswonger Foundation)
· Voice Recognition Software
· “The Greene Scene” – an outdoor gardening classroom at GMS
· LCD Projectors
· Flight Simulators (for Jr. ROTC at GHS)
· Virtual Field Trip Program
· Geometers Sketchpad Software
· HomeLink – providing home internet connectivity to GCS students in-need
· Kindle E-Reader Pilot Program
· TI 30XIIS Scientific Calculators
· U.S. Tennis Association Curriculum & Equipment (at all elementary schools in the system)
· Literacy Circle Library
· Listening Lab For Early Literacy
· Digital Document Cameras
· Pasco Lab Equipment
Program
CORE Champions Reception
In the lobby of the General Morgan Inn
Dinner
In the ballroom of the General Morgan Inn
Master Of Ceremonies Welcome
Dr. Craig Shepherd, GCS Education Foundation Chairman
Invocation
Craig Ogle, BOE Chairman
Menu
Orange Citrus Chicken
Parmesan Roasted New Potatoes
Sugar Snap Peas and Parisian Carrots
Rolls and Butter
Panna Cotta with a Wild Berry Compote
Ice Tea, Coffee and Water
Keynote Address
Coach Phillip Fulmer,
Former University of Tennessee Football Coach
Introduction of Champions
Dr. Linda Stroud, Director of Schools
Outstanding Young Alumni
Captain Jordan Yokley, M.D.
Class of 2001
Distinguished Alumni
Mr. John C. Compton
Class of 1979
Distinguished Service
Mr. Terry Leonard
Class of 1956
Outstanding Patron
Mr. Scott M. Niswonger
Sending Forth
Mr. Bob Leonard,
GCS Education Foundation Past Chairman
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Captain Jordan Yokley, M.D.
Captain Jordan Yokley, M.D. is a graduate of Greeneville High School (2001) and the United States Military Academy, West Point, N.Y. (2005), where he earned a Bachelor of Science, Life Sciences, and Environmental Engineering Field of Study. Jordan completed U.S. Army Air Assault School in 2004 and entered Vanderbilt School of Medicine in 2005. In 2006 Jordan completed U.S. Army Officer Basic Course. He earned a Doctorate of Medicine from Vanderbilt in May 2009 and spent his transitional intern year at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI.
In 2009, Jordan completed Combat Casualty Care Course and earned his Advance Trauma Life Support Certification in San Antonio, TX, and received Crisis Team Training at Tripler in Honolulu. In 2010 he attended U.S. Army Flight Surgeon School in Fort Rucker, AL, and earned certifications in Altitude Training and Helicopter Overwater Survival Training.
In addition to his many accomplishments, Jordan has published several research papers. He’s also a certified SCUBA diver, an avid runner, and an avid traveler, having visited all 50 US states, Russia, France, Costa Rica, Jordan, Israel Palestine, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Ireland.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Battalion Flight Surgeon, 563rd ASB, Ft. Campbell, KY 2010-2011 – Responsible for health, welfare, and medical admin for largest aviation battalion in garrison and deployed environment (Kandahar Airfield, SE Afghanistan, in support of OEF 2011). Responsible for medical education of battalion medics. Provided medical support in >50hrs flight time for MEDEVAC, CASEVAC, and HUMINT missions while deployed.
Internship – University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan, Pediatric Infectious Disease, Feb 2009- Worked directly with providers, nurses, and medical students to provide inpatient and outpatient care to local Jordanian kids. Served as initial representative for Vanderbilt University/University of Jordan Pediatric partnership.
I Internship – Indian Health Services, Nome, Alaska, Sep 2008 – Provided primary care for Nome and surrounding Indian communities. Participated in radio calls, village visits, and MEDEVACs to numerous villages in remote Northern Alaska.
Internship – Walter Reed Army Hospital, Washington, D.C. July-August 2004
Internship – Tennessee Department of Homeland Security June-August 2003 – Provided intelligent assessments on state assets and suspected targets. Traveled with State Director of Homeland Security to brief local officials, police, and homeland security personnel.
HONORS AND AWARDS
Honor Graduate, 2010 – U.S. Army Flight Surgeon Course, Finished with 98% course average, 2nd out of 44 students
Billboard Advertisement Campaign Representative, 2007 – U.S. Army Medical Recruitment Program
Microbes and Defense Academic Honor Society, 2006-Present – Induction based on academic performance in microbiology and immunology course
Dean’s Award, 2006 – Selected by classmates during first year in order to recognize outstanding leadership and camaraderie
Army Commendation Medal, 2005 – Awarded for medical response to interstate accident scene
Golden Key National Honor Society, 2004-2005
Phi Kappa Phi, Junior Year Inductee, 2005
The Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Award for Excellence in Environmental Engineering, 2005 – Awarded for top performance in Environmental Engineering Field of Study
LEADERSHIP, TEACHING, & VOLUNTEERISM
Tripler Intern General Medical Education Committee Representative, 2009-2010 – Voting member of monthly GME meetings and disciplinary boards
Admissions Field Force Representative, USMA 2008-2011 – Interview perspective cadet candidates, talk to local schools/organizations about USMA
Wing-A-Thon, Creator/Organizer, 2005-2008 – Charitable wing-eating competition that has collectively raised ~$3000 over three years for various organizations including supporting American Red Cross with Hurricane Katrina victims, local Nashville free clinic, and Fallen Heroes Fund
Wilderness Medical Skills Course, CME Student/Instructor, Wilderness Medical Society, 2007
ASMA National Convention, Vanderbilt Delegate, Washington D.C., 2007
Miles for Melanoma, Country Music ½ Marathon for Dermatology Interest Group, 2006
VUSM Class Social Chair, 2006-2009 – Responsible for planning all class functions including annual school-wide “Cadaver Ball”
Military Medical Student Association Chair, 2006-2009
Greeneville Boys & Girls Club, 2005-2007
Distinguished Alumni Award
Mr. John C. Compton
John Compton is a graduate of Greeneville High School, Class of 1979. He earned a BS in Finance from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 1983.
John joined PepsiCo in 1983 as a Frito-Lay Production Supervisor in the Pulaski Tennessee plant and has held a variety of leadership positions throughout his career. He spent time as CEO of PepsiCo North America and president and CEO of Quaker Tropicana Gatorade. He worked in Frito-Lay for 22 years in various sales marketing, operations and general management assignments, including vice chairman and president of Frito-Lay’s North American Salty Snacks Division, and chief marketing officer and senior vice president of Sales.
John served on the Board of Directors of the Pepsi-Cola Bottling Group prior to its merger with PepsiCo in 2010. He was CEO of PepsiCo Americas Foods (PAF), the largest sector of PepsiCo’s four business units with $23 billion in revenues in 2011. In addition, he led both PepsiCo’s Power of One – Americas Council and Global Snacks Group.
In March of 2012, John assumed the role of president of PepsiCo and was responsible for overseeing all of PepsiCo’s global category groups, Global Operations, Global Marketing, and Corporate Strategy. He was responsible for driving breakthrough innovation and brand building while looking for ways to significantly reduce the overall cost structure of the company.
In September of 2012, John’s deep and personal ties to Tennessee led him to end his 29-year long career at PepsiCo, and take on the role of CEO of Pilot Flying J, based in Knoxville, TN. He was most recently named as strategic advisor for Pilot Flying J, the Cleveland Browns football team, and the Haslam family. John also serves on the board of First Horizon National Corporation – First Tennessee Bank.
Midway into his career, John made it a priority to return to UT to share his experiences with students. His goal has been to inspire students to be as successful as they can in their chosen professions, and then give back to the community as much as they possibly can. He has been an active supporter of the College of Business Administration, serving as an executive-in-residence lecturer and a member of the Advisory Council to the Dean for more than a decade. He also given generously of his time to serve on the college’s Campaign for Tennessee volunteer committee to support the college’s fundraising efforts. The UT College of Business named him a Distinguished Alumni in 2010. Then, one year later, in recognition for attaining extraordinary distinction and success in his chosen field, and for bringing credit and acclaim to UT Knoxville through his accomplishments, and for benefitting society at large, John received the University’s highest honor – Distinguished Alumnus of 2011.
John lives in Knoxville with his wife, Cindy, and their three children.
Distinguished Service
Mr. Terry Leonard
Terry Leonard is a graduate of Greeneville High School, Class of 1956. He began his business career by establishing The Men’s Shop in 1963. In the 1970’s, he expanded his business interest to include real estate development before branching into manufacturing in the 1980’s. Today, Terry is the chairman of Leonard Associates, LLC, a local holding company that operates BTL Industries, LMR Plastics, and Leonard Manufacturing, and owns some 700,000 square feet of commercial rental property, which includes 7 warehouse buildings that the company occupies and leases to others.
Since the 1970’s, Terry has been extremely active in the promotion of economic development in Greene County and his economic development efforts have been instrumental in several industries locating in Greene County. Terry is the chairman of the Industrial Park Board, and serves on the Greene County Foundation. In 1995, he was named Economic Development Volunteer of the Year by the State of Tennessee, honoring Terry for hours of extraordinary volunteer efforts contributed to improve the economic well-being of his community..
Having served as a member of the Founding Committee, Terry’s leadership was responsible for creating the Greene County Partnership. Terry has served on the board of directors of Greeneville Light and Power and as chairman of the board of directors of Greene County Bank / GreenBank.
Terry was involved with the formation of the Greeneville City Schools Education Foundation and was a fundraising leader on the initial and second technology fundraising drives, which benefited the Greeneville City School System. He continues to be a champion for education in our community.
Terry’s wife, Kathryn (Kay) Leonard, a longtime educator who served on the Greeneville City Board of Education from 1987 until 1990, and as the school board’s chairman for 11 years, died in February of 2005. In July 2006, Terry and his three children – Kimery Connard, Bob Leonard and Watson Leonard – donated the family firm’s former headquarters to the Greeneville City School System to become the city schools’ new administrative headquarters.
Terry has been a lifelong member of Asbury United Methodist Church where he has held a number of leadership positions. He and his wife, Evelyn, live in Greeneville and enjoy traveling and spending time with their children and grandchildren.
Outstanding Patron
Mr. Scott M. Niswonger
Scott Niswonger was born in Van Wert, Ohio. He learned to fly at the Van Wert County Airport, soloing on his 16th birthday. During his career, Scott has flown J-3 Cubs to the Boeing 747. He currently has an aerobatic Navy T-34 and Gulfstream IV-SP jet.
He is a graduate from Purdue University with a degree in Aviation Technology and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Technology in 2004. In addition, Mr. Niswonger earned a BSBA from Tusculum College and later an Honorary Doctorate of Human Letters in 2006.
In 1968, he moved to Greeneville, Tennessee as the pilot for the president of The Magnavox Company. In 1973, Niswonger started a cargo airline, General Aviation. After selling General Aviation, he became the Senior Vice President of North American Operations for Flying Tiger Lines – an international cargo airline. Later, in 1981, he co-founded a second transportation company, Landair Services, with an initial investment of $2,000, and in 1990 formed Forward Air Corporation (FWRD). Those companies today have sales of over $700 million. It’s impressive to note that these were the first two companies to be taken public in Greene County’s 226 year history. Today, Niswonger is the majority shareholder of Landair Transport, Inc. and is Chairman Emeritus of Forward Air Corporation.
Mr. Niswonger is very active in community and civic affairs having served in positions of leadership on the local, state, and national levels. Some of his current activities include serving as President of The Niswonger Foundation; as board member of First Horizon National (FHN), the parent of First Tennessee Bank; as Chairman of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Foundation; as a Trustee at Tusculum College; as the President of the Governing Board for the Niswonger Performing Arts Center; as co-chairs of the Purdue University Foundation Development Council and member of the Dean’s Executive Council for the College of Technology at Purdue; as board member of the East Tennessee State University Foundation; and as an ordained elder in the Presbyterian church. He also is a past chairman of Economic Development and Growth Board for the State of Tennessee.
He has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions, some of which include being selected by Junior Achievement International as their worldwide recipient of the International Distinguished Graduate Award; the past recipient of Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year for the Southeastern U.S.; and Coopers & Lybrand’s Entrepreneurial Company of the Year. He was selected by Forbes as the top “Best 200 Small Public Companies” for nine consecutive years and awarded Purdue University’s Distinguished Technology Alumni Award; the Mountain States Foundation Spirit Award; the State of Tennessee Board of Regents Award for Excellence in Philanthropy; the Paul Harris Fellow Award from Rotary International; and the George L. Carter Award (highest honor bestowed) from East Tennessee State University.
Scott is especially proud of The Niswonger Foundation that he established in 2001 to create opportunities for individual and regional growth through educational programs, scholarships, and other charitable activities. With an annual program budget of over $5 million, the Niswonger Foundation currently has 18 student- Niswonger Scholars in universities across America and 44 graduate alumni.
Niswonger is the lead benefactor for the new Niswonger Children’s Hospital built in Johnson City, Tennessee at the Johnson City Medical Center and serves on the hospital’s Executive Council.
With an exceptional level of involvement, giving and generosity; businessman and philanthropist Scott M. Niswonger has made a positive impact that will affect many generations to come.
Keynote Speaker
Coach Phillip Fulmer
A legend in the Volunteer State and throughout college football, Phillip Fulmer enjoys sharing his knowledge and experiences through speaking opportunities across the country.
Coach has been a winner and leader all his life. He credits his parents, community leaders, teachers and coaches in the small middle Tennessee town of Winchester for helping him develop those skills and traits. He learned the principles of family, hard work, dedication to goals, teamwork and using the Christian foundation taught by his parents.
Coach Fulmer's positive experiences continued into the world of major-college football when he accepted a football scholarship in 1968 to play at the University of Tennessee. His Tennessee teams excelled by going 31-5, and Coach Fulmer served as team co-captain during his senior year of 1971.
Coach stayed on as a Graduate Assistant at UT in charge of the freshman team’s defense and linebackers. During that time, former Vols All-American Player and Legendary Assistant George Cafego taught Coach Fulmer the values and skills needed to scout the opposition. It became a key development to Coach Fulmer’s future success. He then took those experiences away from his comfort zone and coached five seasons at Wichita State and one season at Vanderbilt before returning to Knoxville for 13 years as a Tennessee Assistant – the last four as Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator.
Coach Fulmer served as Head Football Coach at Tennessee for 17 years, from 1992-2008. He and his staff built an organization that produced the most successful era in modern Tennessee football history. Coach and his staff were tireless recruiters and mentored some of the top names in college and NFL history. In Coach’s last 11 years, he played in the SEC Championship game five times, winning twice. He also led the Vols to one of the greatest moments in school history, the 1998 National Championship in the very first BCS title game.
In his 17 seasons, his record was 152-52 with a 74 percent winning percentage, he had 92 players make a NFL roster, 18 players earned All-American honors and another 68 players were selected All-SEC. Coach Fulmer is also very proud of the family approach he took to guiding his players to off the field successes as well as on the field successes.
Coach Fulmer has taken the same attitudes and principles to the business world and continues to be successful. He now enjoys being a partner with the Northshore Management Company in Knoxville. Northshore serves as a holding company for investment strategies and private equity companies. His partners, Mike West and George Hashbarger, both are longtime successful businessmen. Mike was a former Vol who played under Coach Fulmer, and they have shared a friendship since the mid-1980s.
Coach is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys all nature’s pleasures, he also is protective of the treasures we have in our parks, mountains, lakes, streams and fields. He is very civic and community minded, serving on several boards and committees for groups that help both youth and the elderly.
Coach Fulmer has also enjoyed working with CBS Sports as an expert studio analyst on Football Saturdays in the fall. His experience and knowledge of the game added a great dimension for fans and experts alike.
Coach recently found time to spend a few days filming a special movie, The Blind Side, about a young man he had recruited. The story of Michael Oher received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, and Sandra Bullock won her first Academy Award for Best Actress. In the film, Coach Fulmer played himself and ranks the opportunity as one of his most enjoyable events.
Coach Fulmer and his wife, Vicky, live an exciting and full life. They are the proud parents of four children – Phillip Jr., Courtney, Brittany and Allison. They also have four grandchildren -- Grant, Maddie, JP, and Tori. Over the years, the Fulmer family has earned respect and admiration both inside and out of the athletics world.
Coach Fulmer has competed and won championships at all levels. But what set him apart then and what continues to set him apart now, is that he does it with class and integrity.
Special Thanks To…
Greeneville City Board of Education
Greeneville City School System Staff & Administration
The General Morgan Inn
Flowers By Tammy
Mrs. Kay Puckett
Mr. Anthony Feathers
Miss Abbi Jones
Ms. Julie Fannon
Miss Tamara Hartman
Mrs. Brenda Ottinger
Mrs. Janet Ricker
Ms. Robbie Mitchell
Mrs. Carla Todaro
Artistic Printers
CORE Champion Awards Selection Committee
Barbara Clanton Mark Williams Sherry Hood
Shane Hite Crystal Duggar Stella Hunter
Sandra Fox
We are extremely grateful to all of our event sponsors.
Gold Medal Sponsors ($1000)
& Mr. & Mrs. Dale Keasling
Silver Medal Sponsors ($500)
Bronze Medal Sponsors ($250)
Mayor & Mrs. W.T. Daniels
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Anderson
Commit
Optimize
Reinvest
Equip
Champion Awards Banquet
April 4, 2013
129 W. Depot Street
P.O. Box 1420
Greeneville, Tennessee 37744-1420
(423) 823-0001
www.gcseducationfoundation.net
email us at:
education.foundation@gcschools.net
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