The Lucy Gibson Notable Woman Award

KAWE named the Notable Woman award after one of its own, Lucy Webb Gibson, to honor her legacy, grace and courage. Lucy had proposed and helped initiate the award.

Do you know a local, outstanding woman who has affected the strategic direction of an organization, contributed to her community, and maintained a life balance in a profession, business, charity, creative art, or sport? KAWE recognizes such a woman annually by selecting from a list of nominees. Nominees must be from the greater Knoxville area. Click the Nomination Form button to submit the name of your own “notable woman.” KAWE membership recognizes the winning applicant at a luncheon in early fall. ​

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The Lucy Gibson Notable Woman of 2024, Kelle Schulz, former President and CEO, Habitat for Humanity, Knoxville, September 1994 to 2024

Denise Stillman, the Lucy Gibson Notable Woman Chair, introduces Kelle Schulz, former CEO of Habitat for Humanity, at the KAWE September 2024 luncheon

Kelle officially retired from Knoxville Habitat for Humanity on December 31, 2023. Despite retiring, Kelle has remained involved in the community. She volunteers and acts as a consultant for Habitat affiliates in East Tennessee. This shows her ongoing dedication to the Habitat for Humanity cause and her willingness to support the organization after more than 30 years of service.

Recognizing the isolation that agency leaders often face, Kelle hosts four to six Habitat executive directors in her home every quarter. This provides them with a retreat setting where they can openly discuss management challenges and collaborate on finding solutions. This initiative demonstrates her commitment to mentoring and supporting leadership within the Habitat network.

Outside of her Habitat-related activities, Kelle serves as the caregiver for her 91-year-old mother. This role highlights her dedication to family and caregiving responsibilities.

She is also active in her art class, which includes traveling together and exploring new artistic mediums. This shows her passion for the arts and her interest in continuous learning and creativity.

Overall, Kelle Shultz’s retirement has not slowed her down; instead, she has redirected her energy into meaningful activities that benefit both her community and personal interests. Her continued involvement with Habitat for Humanity and her support for agency leaders reflect a deep-seated commitment to service and leadership development.

 

Members of the selection committee: Denise Stillman, Chair; Kelle, our Notable Woman; Freddi Pope and Michelle Eimers.