Christine Williamson, former Miss Tennessee, arrives today at Southern to conclude the first Community Service Emphasis Week. She will be speaking this morning during convocation about the importance of volunteer work.
Jennifer Carter, Christian Service director, contacted Williamson this past spring after hearing her speak at a service and volunteer conference.
“I learned that she’s a student here in Chattanooga and so I thought, ‘Hey, since she’s right here, she might be willing to come and speak to our students,’” Carter said.
Besides winning the title of Miss Tennessee on June 23, 2018, Williamson has also served as an ambassador for the five Children’s Miracle Network hospitals across the state and as a national spokesperson for the Alzheimer’s Association. She also holds a position as Volunteer Tennessee’s honorary board chair.
Carter believes Williamson’s presentation will complement what has already been presented throughout the community service emphasis week and will inspire students to take action in their community.
“She [Williamson] volunteers on a regular basis and so there is that connection that she’s already giving back to the community,” Carter said. “I think her story of service will be a good example to students that it does not matter what you do or how busy you are, there is always a chance to go out and make a difference in your community.”
Community Service Emphasis Week has been an effort of the Christian Service Department to introduce students to the different ways in which they can volunteer and work with non-profit organizations. Over 30 non-profit organizations have participated in the four-day event, which was extended from the previous years’ one-day service expo.
