I am a class of 1981 Interpreting Major. I am a third generation graduate of Maryville College and have my grandfather's class ring to prove it. My grandfather, James Albert Cox graduated in 1929. My parents Polly ("58) and Rufus ('60) met at Maryville College. Even though I lived all over the United States, as Dad was in the Marine Corps, the mountains of East Tennessee have always called me home.

After I graduated, I worked for the North Carolina Council for the Hearing Impaired, but the mountains called me home again. Moving back to East Tennessee in 1983 was exactly where I was meant to be. I have been here ever since. I worked for the State of Tennessee Department of Safety for 33 years, retired and still work part time for Hilton properties.  I have one son, Tanner, who lives in Murfreesboro.

I joined the board in 2013 during my first week of KT. Ben Wicker recruited me and I have been on the board ever since.  KT Week/Days also is a passion of mine. I never knew how much fun it is to paint and "rockin' to the oldies."  The only thing I do not recommend, do not dance on a scaffold.  I love working with the fellow board members and talking with current students. Since 2016, I have been in charge of the bake sale side of our annual fundraiser Harvest Craft and Bake Sale.

I often find myself driving on campus when there is a full moon as the view is the best overlooking Lloyd Beach.  Maryville College is not just a place, it becomes part of your life.