Leadership Development Academy

Richard Williams, Jr., had an impact on everyone who met with him.
Many visitors to Blount County will always have fond memories of our
beautiful county because of a lasting memory of their encounter with
a great man, Richard Williams, Jr. He was not only one of Blount
County's greatest ambassadors, but he was a husband, father,
grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, cousin, deacon,
Sunday School teacher, soldier, and Blount County Commissioner. He
was the perfect example of a faithful servant and friend to God and
man. Richard used his talents and gifts from God: courage, love,
compassion, boldness, and strength to overcome many obstacles.
He became one of the greatest leaders in the history of Blount
County because he was strong in the Lord and in the power of His
might, for he was not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. It has been
my privilege to have been given the opportunity to observe first hand
through knowing Richard Williams, Jr., the qualities that make a
great leader. I shall be forever grateful that my travels down life's
road included a little time to walk and talk with one of the
greatest leaders I have ever known, Richard Williams, Jr.
-Rhonda Pitts

Richard Williams Prays in The Tennessee State House Chamber

George Williams is a retired Tennessee Valley Authority Manager and Oak Ridge Associated Universities Educational Specialist. Williams attended the University of Tennessee. He previously served on The Alcoa Board of Education, Tennessee Schools Boards Association Board of Directors, served as Chairman of Blount County Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of Blount County Historical Museum, COGIC Youth Department President, Jurisdictional AIM Chairman as well as Alcoa City Commissioner. Presently George serves as a member of Alcoa Inc Community Advisory Board and as a member of the Clayton Center for the Arts Board of Directors.

Patty Littlejohn - Assistant Executive Director

Patty was involved in the creation of the Academy and brings twenty seven years of experience in personnel management and training to the academy. Patty Littlejohn attended Chabot Community College, in Haywood, California, with extensive experience in Human Resources and Customer Service in the retail industry and food services Patty serves as the primary partner liaison and is responsible for records
management, unit coordination and general academy administration.

Cheryl Flowers - Project Director/McKinley Flowers Leadership Kiddet Unit
Cheryl Flowers is a retired Delta Air Lines Systems Administrator. Flowers is currently employed as a Career Specialist with Tennessee Career Center, as well as attending Pellissippi State College. She has previously served with HOME, Inc. Neighborhood Watch Committee. Presently she is active with the Youth Council of High Praises Church of Maryville; is a member of the Advisory Board of Boys and Girls Club of Blount County, as well as a member of Blount County Friends of the Library. She is dedicated to manifesting positive results in this community, with an emphasis on faith-based education and youth development.