We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community for their unwavering support and engagement. Your outreach to KAUL staff has been truly appreciated, reinforcing the strength of our community bonds. Together, we continue to make a positive impact, and your connection means a great deal to us. Thank you for reaching out and being an integral part of the KAUL family.
Dr. Charles F. Lomax Jr.
Charles F. Lomax Jr. is President & CEO of the Knoxville Area Urban League. As the Chief Executive, Charles leads the organization's aim of “Empowering Communities. Changing Lives.” by providing opportunities in the areas of Education, Entrepreneurship, Health, Housing, Jobs and Justice.
Prior to joining the Urban League in December of 2022, Charles was the Director of Community Empowerment for the City of Knoxville where he oversaw the Office of Neighborhood Empowerment, the Police Advisory and Review Committee, the Empower Knox Initiative, the African American Equity Restoration Taskforce, and the city’s Title VI Office. He has also previously been employed by the Knoxville Leadership Foundation and the Knox County Election Commission. Additionally, he serves as the Senior Pastor of St. John Missionary Baptist Church located in Alcoa, Tennessee, and has partnered with congregation and community since February of 2012.
A proponent of education, Lomax received a Doctor of Ministry Degree from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia in 2018, a Master of Divinity Degree from the Morehouse School of Religion at Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia in 2010, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee in 2006.
Dr. Lomax sits on the boards of the American Heart Association, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Blount Mansion, Knoxville Chamber of Commerce, and Leadership Knoxville. He has the distinction of being recognized in Knoxville’s 2020 grouping of 40 Under 40, Leadership Knoxville Class of 2021, and was the 2022 Diversity Champion Award Winner from the Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission. He is a former Commissioner on the Knoxville/Knox County Metropolitan Planning Commission, a Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, and a member of the NAACP.
Executive Leadership
Felix Harris
Felix Harris has been an indispensable member of the Knoxville Area Urban League since February 1, 2007. Felix's connection with the KAUL is grounded in a shared commitment to empowering individuals through entrepreneurship and small business development. His attraction to the Urban League's dedication to fostering economic self-reliance and creating economic opportunities within urban communities perfectly aligns with our mission to support economic advancement and establish sustainable pathways for individuals to attain financial independence.
As the Chief Operating Officer (COO), Felix assumes a pivotal leadership role, contributing significantly to impactful change in our community and positively influencing people's lives—a facet of his work that brings him immense fulfillment. Throughout his career, Felix has adeptly navigated the community's evolving needs, underscoring the significance of continual adaptation and innovation in addressing new challenges.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Felix enjoys spending quality time with his family, indulging in classic television shows, and passionately cheering for Alabama Football (Roll Tide!). When asked for advice from his younger self, Felix encourages embracing every positive or challenging experience, fostering a mindset of continuous learning that undoubtedly guides one toward a fulfilling and successful life journey.
Michelle Clayton
Michelle Clayton is a seasoned organizational leader with 13 years of diverse experience in education and nonprofit sectors. She holds a Graduate Degree in Educational Specialist, Education Leadership from the University of Tennessee, a Master's Degree in Educational Administration, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education and History from the University of South Alabama.
In her previous executive leadership role at Knox County Schools, Michelle served as both Assistant Principal at Central High School, West High School, and Austin-East Magnet, and later as Executive Principal at Richard Yoakley School. Her commitment to educational leadership, curriculum development, student support, and staff development is evident in her achievements, including increasing graduates, implementing data-driven interventions, and fostering a positive learning environment.
Michelle's leadership extends to correctional and residential treatment facilities, where she served as Correctional Principal at Mountain View Youth Development Center and Executive Principal at Florence Crittenton Agency. In these roles, she collaborated with stakeholders, implemented evidence-based programs, and ensured regulatory compliance to support the rehabilitation of substance-addicted teens and juvenile offenders.
With a diverse set of competencies, including compliance management, data-driven decision-making, fundraising leadership, and youth program supervision, Michelle brings a wealth of expertise to her current role as Vice President of Development & Strategic Partnerships with the KAUL. Her commitment to community involvement is underscored by her roles as a Chorus Singer with the Knoxville Opera Company and as a Board Member of the Bijou Theatre and Marble City Opera.
Beyond her professional and community achievements, Michelle excels in content creation, diversity leveraging expertise, exceptional leadership skills, and strategic planning. Her multifaceted experiences and dedication to marginalized individuals uniquely position her as vital addition to the KAUL executive leadership team.
Terrence Carter
Brenda Roper
Meet Brenda Roper, our esteemed Vice President of Finance and Human Resources, who has been an integral part of our team since 2004. Drawn to the Knoxville Area Urban League (KAUL) by our diverse staff and clientele, Brenda finds immense satisfaction in her role as it allows her to contribute significantly to the community.
Brenda's journey to her current position is a testament to her dedication and hard work. She earned her Masters in Accounting with a concentration in Public Accounting, maintaining an impressive GPA of 3.98, all while juggling full-time employment. Her commitment to professional excellence is truly commendable.
Beyond her professional achievements, Brenda values her personal time, enjoying activities such as reading, taking walks, and cherishing moments with her grandson. Reflecting on her experiences, Brenda emphasizes the importance of achieving a balanced work-family life, a valuable insight she would share with her younger self.
Deedee M. Chism
Deedee Chism is a dynamic professional with a rich background in athletics and academia. Having excelled as a former professional volleyball player, Deedee brings a distinctive blend of strategic thinking, leadership, and teamwork to her current role as the Executive Administrative Assistant at the Knoxville Area Urban League. This position allows her to showcase the culmination of her extensive work experience.
KAUL Staff
Tennessee Opportunity Pilot Initiative (TOPI)
Empowerment begins with action, and we invite you to take the first step toward unlocking many opportunities! The Knoxville Area Urban League (KAUL) is committed to serving our community in areas that matter most to you.
If you or someone you know is seeking support or guidance in the realms of Advocacy & Justice, Education & Youth, Employment, Entrepreneurship, or Housing, we're here for you.
Completing the form below is a simple yet powerful way to request KAUL services tailored to your needs.
The KAUL is pleased to announce the availability of space for local organizations and businesses to conduct their business meetings. We extend a warm welcome to community members interested in hosting meetings at our facility. Please note that social events cannot be held at the KAUL.
KAUL members enjoy the benefit of reserving meeting space at a discounted rate.
Stay informed by checking your email for updates, or feel free to contact our Executive Assistant, Deedee Chism, at 865-524-5511 ext. 203 or via email at [email protected] for further assistance.
Community Room
- Accommodates over 60 people standing, with 40-50 chairs provided.
- Option to book the entire room or half of the space.
- Convenient kitchenette accessible for use, and catering tables can be provided upon request.
- Equipped with three TV monitors and available PC connections for presentations or multimedia needs.
Innovation Room
- Accommodates 8-10 people.
- Space features walls coated with dry erase paint for interactive brainstorming activities.
- Ideal for meetings and intimate gatherings.
- Please note that TV connections are not available.
Computer Lab
- Seven PCs are available for use, along with a rolling whiteboard complete with markers.
- The space is also equipped with TV monitors and has available PC connections, catering to presentations and multimedia requirements.
Event Space Reservation Pricing
Please note that the minimum reservation is for 2 hours.
2 Hours Reservation:
- Cost: $75
- Inclusions: Set up and break down time
- Additional Hours: $25 per hour
4 Hours Reservation:
- Cost: $125
- Inclusions: Set up and break down time
Full Business Day (9 AM - 5 PM):
- Cost: $225
- Inclusions: Set up and break down time
Note: All prices are subject to availability and may be subject to additional fees or terms. Please refer to the facility booking calendar for detailed information and availability.
KAUL members enjoy the benefit of reserving meeting space at a discounted rate.
Stay informed by checking your email for updates, or feel free to contact our Executive Assistant, Deedee Chism, at 865-524-5511 ext. 203 or via email at [email protected] for further assistance.
Availability & Scheduling
For seamless planning, refer to the facility booking calendar for availability when scheduling events.