At Girls on the Run of Greater Knoxville, our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do.

From coaches who bring our evidence-based curriculum to life, to event volunteers who make event days magical, to board members who guide our vision - our work simply wouldn’t be possible without them. This series celebrates the people who make it all happen and offers a closer look at the many ways volunteers power our mission.

Meet our Board Member, Emily!

The Basics

Your Name: Emily Pennington

What is your current job title and company? HR Director - Bailey International

Your GOTR Journey

How did you first get involved with Girls on the Run? What inspired you to join the board? I learned about GOTR when a representative came to speak at a Junior League event. I was instantly moved and felt like this program could help so many girls and would have been great for me had it been available when I was in elementary school.

What part of the Girls on the Run mission resonates with you the most and why?  Giving girls a firm foundation of emotional health and confidence to complete their goals. Confidence was something I struggled with in adolescence, and it moved me to see a program helping to teach girls this early on.

What is one of your favorite GOTR moments or memories? Going to a practice 5k for a school and watching the girls not only work to complete their own race but also supporting and uplifting each other along the course.

A Little More About You

When you're not working or volunteering, what's a favorite hobby or way you like to spend your time? I love spending time with my family (3 year old son, husband, and goldendoodle), reading books, exercising, cooking, and learning French.

A book, podcast, or song you're loving right now? I am almost done reading all of the books in the Virgin River series.

Photo Time!