Vivian Underwood Shipe

Jan 3, 2025 | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

It is a new year. From the White House to the local courthouse, change is happening across America. Innovative ideas are needed, and so is strong leadership. In Knoxville, there are many strong Black leaders; those with integrity, courage, and a boldness to speak stand and speak up for the needs of African Americans, those willing to tell the stories, to speak truth to power, to lead as a servant leader.

Nov 20, 2024 | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

Chrystal Armstong Brown was named interim CEO of United Way of Greater Knoxville, effective Nov. 11. Brown previously held the position of chief impact officer with the organization. No stranger to leadership, she has served as vice president of program development for the Emerald Youth Foundation. Born in Columbia Tenn., a minister and member of the 2025 Leadership Knoxville class, Brown will have the opportunity to develop her vision of Knoxville.

Nov 6, 2024 | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

“Pray for resurrection.” Those were the words spoken by Pastor Daryl Arnold, senior pastor of Overcoming Believers Church, as he started his Tuesday morning prayer service. There was a huge fire on the lawn of his beloved alma mater, Knoxville College, one of the oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in America. Elnathan Hall, built in 1898, one of the oldest structures on the historic campus, was burning. The fire broke out around 8:30 p.m. on Monday.

Oct 23, 2024 | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

Lynne Williams, 70, is a 31-year cancer survivor. After having a left breast mastectomy, she discovered her tumor was the size of a period on a page so it could not be felt with a self-exam or even seen on a mammogram. She had a discharge from her nipple and went to see what and why it was. The diagnosis was cancer and so she began chemotherapy through clinical participation. “I had hair before chemo, and then I was completely bald for six months,” she said.

Oct 16, 2024 | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

As the country ramps up to begin early voting before the Nov. 5 election, the swill has already been stirring about election fraud, double voting, false representations, and stolen elections. These issues all come down to one question: Is my local official competent, trustworthy, and ethical enough to ensure a fair and accurate election?