Leadership takes many forms. Some people guide organizations through change, others build careers through years of dedication, and still others earn recognition for the difference their work makes in the community.
This week, three East Tennessee professionals remind us that leadership is about more than a title. It is about responsibility, preparation and the people who benefit from the work.
Girl Scouts welcome new financial leader
The Girl Scout Council of the Southern Appalachians has selected Allen C. Rippetoe as its new chief financial officer, bringing more than 20 years of financial management and accounting experience to an organization dedicated to developing tomorrow’s leaders.
Rippetoe will oversee finances, troop banking, purchasing and asset management for the council, which serves 46 counties across eastern Tennessee, southwest Virginia and northern Georgia.
He joins the organization as longtime CFO Ann Wallace prepares to retire at the end of 2026. Wallace has served in the position since 2017, and the two will work together during the transition.
“Allen brings more than 20 years of experience in financial management and accounting, with expertise in budgeting, financial operations, strategic planning and organizational leadership,” said Lynne Fugate, CEO of the Girl Scout Council of the Southern Appalachians.
Rippetoe previously served as vice president of finance for Sevier County Utility District. He earned his accounting degree from East Tennessee State University, studied computer science at Walters State Community College and holds several professional accounting and financial management credentials.
He is also a graduate of Leadership Sevier.
The council’s leadership transition is a reminder that organizations serving young people depend on dedicated professionals behind the scenes, as well as the volunteers and mentors working directly with children.
Fugate also expressed appreciation for Wallace’s years of service and her role in helping make the transition successful.
For information about membership, volunteering or supporting the organization, visit Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians.
Gabrielle Howard reaches milestone at Johnson Architecture
Gabrielle Howard
A professional license represents years of education, preparation and commitment. For Gabrielle Howard of Johnson Architecture, that achievement also brings a new leadership opportunity.
Howard has earned her architectural license and has been named a project manager at the Knoxville-based firm.
A University of Tennessee graduate, she earned her Bachelor of Architecture in 2022 and Master of Landscape Architecture in 2023. She joined Johnson Architecture later that year.
Her advancement reflects the combination of technical knowledge, professional development and growing responsibility required in architecture.
For young professionals beginning their careers, Howard’s accomplishment illustrates how education and experience can lead to new opportunities in a relatively short time.
Learn more about Johnson Architecture.
KCDC leader receives national recognition
NAHRO National President Sean Gilbert, Ben Bentley and NAHRO CEO Mark Thiele.
Ben Bentley, executive director and CEO of Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation, has received an Outstanding Professional of the Year award from the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials.
Bentley accepted the honor October 16 during the organization’s national conference in Denver, Colorado.
The award recognizes outstanding contributions to quality of life through work in housing and community development.
KCDC plays an important role in Knoxville through affordable housing, neighborhood redevelopment and community investment.
The recognition places a national spotlight on the work being done in East Tennessee and the importance of leadership in meeting housing and community needs.
Bentley’s honor is also a reminder that successful community development requires cooperation among residents, local government, nonprofit organizations and private partners.
Learn more about Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation.
Daily Connections — Thursday, October 29
Today’s Motivation
Leadership isn’t measured only by how many people follow you. It can also be measured by how many people you help succeed.
Today in History
On October 29, 1929, the stock market experienced the devastating sell-off known as Black Tuesday. The crash became one of the defining events associated with the beginning of the Great Depression.
Tennessee Trivia
The University of Tennessee traces its beginnings to Blount College, founded in Knoxville in 1794, two years before Tennessee became a state.
Today’s Smile
Why did the employee bring a pencil to the meeting? Because the boss said it was time to draw some conclusions!
Local Events
McClung Museum Movie Night — Tonight, October 29
The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture on the University of Tennessee campus is hosting a Halloween-season screening of The Woman in Black, paired with an opportunity to learn about Victorian mourning attire.
Doors open at 6 p.m., and the movie begins at 6:30 p.m. The film is rated PG-13. Registration is required, and admission terms vary by museum membership.
Movie Night information and registration
Museum of Appalachia Fall Heritage Days — October 29–30
The Museum of Appalachia offers an opportunity to experience traditional Appalachian crafts, music and heritage. Families and educators should check the museum’s website for participation details.
Visit the Museum of Appalachia
Looking for more community activities?
Explore the Visit Knoxville events calendar for additional opportunities around the area.
Stock Market
Follow current financial news and market performance at Yahoo Finance.
865 Puzzles
Take a break with the Large Crossword, Mini Crossword, Sudoku, Word Search or WordroW. Visit KnoxTNToday and select Puzzles from the menu.
Let’s keep talking
Do you know a business leader, nonprofit director, volunteer or community organizer whose work deserves recognition?
We welcome suggestions for future Let’s Talk: Leaders features. Send story ideas and photographs to news@knoxtntoday.com.
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