Updates
May 2, 2025
April 27, 2025 – In a moving evening of reflection and celebration, Project GRAD Knoxville gathered to honor 25 years of impact, leadership, and student achievement at the annual Celebration Dinner. WATE News Anchor Lori Tucker graciously welcomed guests and guided them through an evening that honored past leaders, recognized outstanding contributors, and celebrated the final cohort of Project GRAD Scholars.
Honoring Founding Leaders and Remembering a Champion
The evening opened with recognition of Project GRAD’s founding leaders—Montina Jones, Marion Quinn, and Mike Reynolds—whose vision brought the nationally recognized model to Knoxville, changing over 33,000 students’ lives across 14 schools.
A heartfelt memorial tribute honored Christi Kirk, a beloved former Project GRAD staff member who dedicated over 20 years to the mission of empowering students from kindergarten to post-secondary success.
Voices of the Future: Scholar Reflections
Two bright scholars, Myles Crayton (Austin-East High School) and Suleyko Alonzo (Fulton High School), represented the 21st cohort of Project GRAD scholarship recipients, reflecting on their journeys and aspirations. Their words captured the spirit of hope and determination that has defined GRAD scholars for over two decades.
Payton Dendy, an A-E alumna from the Class of 2015, offered a powerful “Words of Wisdom and Charge,” urging scholars to step confidently into their futures.
Ronni Chandler Award Winner
The program featured the presentation of the Ronni Chandler Award to Tanisha Fitzgerald-Baker, Manager of Workplace Culture and Engagement at Knoxville Utilities Board. A former GRAD leader herself, Tanisha was celebrated for her decades-long commitment to education, equity, and community service. Her leadership spans numerous organizations and initiatives, always focused on creating spaces where people and communities can thrive.
Honoring Tradition
Other program highlights included:
- Presentation of Project GRAD artifacts to Dr. Renee Kesler, CEO of the Beck Cultural Exchange Center. Dr. Renee Kesler shared the importance of preserving GRAD’s rich legacy through treasured artifacts.
- Introduction of the 2025 Macebearers: Annette Long and Jasmine Siler (’08), both former College Success staff members.
- The procession of 85 scholars from Austin East and Fulton High Schools for the 2025 cohort of Project GRAD scholars.
The night closed with an energetic musical tribute to the scholars—“All I Do is Think About You!”—leaving the audience inspired and full of gratitude for the legacy built and the legacy that will continue to shine.
