SENIOR DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY RELATIONS | KNOXVILLE CITY GOVERNMENT
Avice Reid is used to wearing different hats when it comes to her professional career. Currently Senior Director of Community Relations for the City of Knoxville, Reid has embraced each new opportunity by building on experiences from the past. “I spent most of my career working at TVA. Early in my career, I was able to develop some pretty important computer systems like the mathematical models used to design TVA’s cooling towers or automating TVA’s land acquisition and disposals system,” she explained. “It was rewarding to take people’s concepts of automation and make them a reality.”
Ten years ago, Reid began her “second career” with Knoxville City Government and has never looked back. “I am proud that I have a role in increasing the positive relationship between Knoxvillians and the Knoxville Police Department,” she said. “I am also proud of the work we are currently doing with the Save our Sons initiative. My hope is that because of the work that is happening throughout the country today, we are making inroads in providing all boys and young men of color more opportunities for success.”
Born and raised in Knoxville, Reid is thankful to call the city home. “Knoxville is a great family city,” she stated. “It offers many family-oriented activities and is a safe place to enjoy those activities. Additionally, the lakes and parks make it easy to have inexpensive family outings, and the symphony, theaters and museums provide educational and entertainment options. There is truly something for everyone.”
As far as what she would describe as Knoxville’s “hidden treasure,” she says it’s not a place or thing. “In my opinion, the true hidden treasure of Knoxville is the low cost of living,” she revealed. “I have visited most states and Knoxville’s property cost and taxes when compared to other areas are a huge benefit. This low cost of living allows Knoxville residents to enjoy a wonderful quality of life in the beautiful setting of East Tennessee.”
Always one to be grateful and to give back, Reid readily gives advice to those just starting out or to those starting fresh. “I often tell people to be prepared and to take advantage of every educational opportunity presented,” she advised. “I also tell them to use every chance to get involved in the community and become a positive role model for our youth. After all, our future generation is our best asset.”