Knoxville to Host Celebration of Design Honoring Rev. Dr. Jerry Askew for Community Impact

Knoxville Plans Special Celebration Honoring Community Leader

Knoxville is gearing up for a heartwarming evening this October! On the 16th, the city will come together at the beautiful Historic Ramsey House, located at 2614 Thorn Grove Pike, from 5 to 9 p.m. for a special event that’s sure to be a highlight of the year—the Celebration of Design. This delightful gathering is not only an occasion to connect with fellow community members, but it also serves a fantastic cause: supporting the East Tennessee Community Design Center (ETCDC).

A Night to Remember

The Celebration of Design will feature a wonderful array of activities including delectable heavy hors d’oeuvres and refreshing drinks. Guests can also look forward to an exciting silent auction filled with unique items. But that’s not all! The evening will culminate in the presentation of two prestigious awards, recognizing individuals who have made a substantial impact in our community.

Spotlight on the 2024 Bruce McCarty Community Impact Award

One of the highlights of the evening is the presentation of the 2024 Bruce McCarty Community Impact Award to the incredibly deserving Rev. Dr. Jerry Askew. This award holds a significant meaning, as it honors the legacy of Bruce McCarty, who was one of the founders of the ETCDC back in April 1970. The center was established to provide vital professional design and planning services to non-profit organizations and agencies that often struggle to afford these resources. The ETCDC works across an impressive 16 counties in our region, making a real difference in the lives of many. To celebrate their 50th anniversary, the center has put together a special PBS video that showcases their incredible journey!

About Rev. Dr. Jerry Askew

Rev. Dr. Jerry Askew, at 70 years young, has dedicated his life to serving the Knoxville community in various capacities. Currently, he is actively engaged at St. John’s Episcopal Church, where he collaborates with 16 deacons spanning across 43 churches. His contributions to the community don’t stop there—he has also served on a staggering 61 non-profit boards and taken the lead on 14 of them. Renowned organizations he has chaired include the Volunteer Ministry Center, the Episcopal School of Knoxville, the Knoxville Utilities Board, and the Sertoma MyLife Foundation. Askew is not alone on this journey; he shares his life with his wife, Robyn Jarvis Askew, a well-respected attorney in Knoxville.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

Dr. Askew’s recognition with the Bruce McCarty Impact Award is a testament to his endless contributions and commitment to the Knoxville community. According to ETCDC, “Compassion and humility are two of Jerry’s greatest attributes, and he has an innate ability to connect with people, no matter their status.” This gracious acknowledgment is a beautiful reminder of how one person can truly make a huge difference in their community.

Join the Celebration

The evening promises to be filled with joy, connection, and inspiration. With valet parking available, attending the event will be a breeze! If you’re interested in being a part of this meaningful occasion, tickets and sponsorship options are obtainable ahead of time. Don’t miss the opportunity to honor one of Knoxville’s treasured leaders while supporting a worthy cause! Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable night on October 16.

Let’s celebrate our community and all the wonderful people in it!