Lavonda Cantrell has always pushed herself to be a difference maker. Her mindset: “Push forward no matter the obstacles in your way. If you set out to make a difference no matter what, you will do just that.”

Those words manifested themselves early on in her journey, when she graduated from ETSU. After graduation, Lavonda worked at Magnolia Ridge, an inpatient drug and rehab facility, where her boss and mentor were instrumental in encouraging her continued education, introducing her to the social work profession and ultimately to attending graduate school at UT Knoxville where she earned a master’s degree in social work and graduated with Phi Alpha honors.

The Kingsport native moved to Hillcrest Healthcare in 2009, where she continues to make a significant impact.

The inspiration to land where she is was there from an early age.

“I have always been very close with both my mom and dad.” Lavonda says. “They have been such a major influence on my life. My parents were close with their parents and siblings and instilled in me early on that family is first and should always be a priority. Witnessing the togetherness of both sides of my extended family and how deeply my parents cared for their parents certainly influenced my decision to work with seniors and help to care for those who cared for us.”

Lavonda Cantrell at the annual Hillcrest Healthcare Foundation Golf Tournament

At Hillcrest Healthcare, Lavonda has many accomplishments. She has participated in an administrator in training program, earning her nursing home administration license. She worked with Legacy Parks to create Knoxville’s first intergenerational playground on the campus of Beverly Place, Tazewell Pike. She reinstated the Hillcrest Healthcare Foundation, a program that helps provide care to everyone in the community. She helped launch the newest division: Hillcrest At Home.

Cantrell credits Hillcrest with not only great experiences, but a sense of value and purpose tied to that family history. She credits a personal relationship to everyone involved, from patient to staff. Making a direct impact on the lives she interacts with is undoubtedly one of the biggest reasons she is staying the course she set over 20 years ago and she has no plans to change that course.

“I envision being with Hillcrest until I retire.” Cantrell said. “I love the team, the mission and vision, and the culture we have. There are so many things on the horizon that make me proud and excited. It is a beautiful thing to be able to expand our care offerings and specialty services to continue serving Knoxville for many years to come.”

Work is not Lavonda’s only purpose or mission as family continues to play a vital role in her life. Married to Danny Cantrell, the couple have two daughters, Tealey and Harper. When she’s not at work, Lavonda can usually be found with the family at a soccer field cheering on her girls.

If you are around Lavonda for just a few minutes, watching her interact with staff and patients, or speak to anyone who knows her, you will know she is that difference maker; one of a kind. She embodies her favorite quote by her actions:Never look down upon anyone unless you are helping them up.” ~ Jesse Jackson

Adam Delahoussaye is a freelance writer for the KnoxTNToday who loves telling stories about music, arts and culture in and around his hometown. Have a story for Adam? He can be reached at email  or text 865-919-5059 with your story idea.