Mrs. Grant graduated from Austin High School, Class of 1957. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Knoxville College, where she once served as a librarian, followed by her Masters. She continued her education at Boston University where she earned her Reading Certificate in 1961 and her Doctorate from the University of Tennessee in 1996.
As a passionate and devoted educator and administrator for over thirty years, Mrs. Grant’s tenure included serving as Vice Principal of Oak Ridge High School and Principal of Austin East High School, from where she retired in 1998. Shortly after retiring from the school system, Grant served as the community relations manager at the Knoxville Utilities Board.
Many colleagues have reflected on her positive outlook, coupled with hard work and unyielding commitment to helping students realize their greatest potential. In 1995, Grant received the Milken National Educator Award, one of the highest educator awards in the United States.
Mrs. Grant was a life-long member of Rogers Memorial Baptist Church, where she served as a trustee. Mrs. Grant was a dedicated member of many organizations and boards, including (but not limited to) the Women’s Fund of East Tennessee Board, United Way, Knoxville Chapter of The Links Incorporated, Joy Crafters Bridge Club, Knoxville Airport Authority Board, Boule Achousa of Beta Knoxville, TN, Home Federal Bank Board, Knox Maids, and The Book Review Club. She was formerly president of the YMCA Board of Directors, a member of the ACI-NA Commissioners, and a member of the Tennessee Judicial performance Evaluation Committee, a review board of appellate judges.
Her legacy and memories are cherished by her daughter, Mrs. Kathi Grant-Willis; granddaughter, Elizabeth Willis; cousins, Carl Gable and Michael Gable, and many, many dear friends.
