Who Are We?
Tyler Rhoton was born and raised in Knoxville, Tn. He received a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Tusculum College. He and his wife, Emily, have four kids: Caroline, Will, Grant and Kathryn. That crew is keeping his days full and exciting. Tyler has been steadfast in educating all of them in his favorite hobby – hunting. Like a true outdoorsman, Tyler loves a big plate of fried salmon patties with fried potatoes. He’s such a health-nut. His leadership combined with his passion to bring glory to God through leading worship will leave a lasting imprint on our students.
Eric Palmer was born and raised in Knoxville, Tn. He graduated from The University of Tennessee with degrees in education and history. He’s a bit of an over-achiever. Eric and his wife, Liz, partied like it was 1999 when they got married…because it was 1999. They have two kids, Gracie and Matthew. Eric has spent his time teaching in middle and high schools, coaching multiple sports and serving as an athletic director. This whole “over-achiever” business is getting a bit out of hand. Eric’s overwhelming drive and passion for life-change in students proves him as an asset to our Student Ministry Team.
Mississippi native, Dustin George, graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in English and is currently pursuing a Masters of Divinity from Southern Seminary. Dustin taught high school and middle school for ten years. He has also been known to lend his voice to the airwaves as a radio deejay. When he’s not spinning the tunes, Dustin likes to do pretty much anything outside. He’s also interested in sculpting, photography, mixed martial arts, and playing the ukulele. All at the same time. Not really, but don’t put it past him to try. One of Dustin’s passions is making disciples of Christ, and we are so excited to see him do just that with our Student Ministry.
Emily Morgan was born and raised in Chattanooga, Tn. She graduated from Samford University and also served a couple of times as the school’s mascot, Spike the Bulldog. Her quest for a Master’s Degree from the University of Tennessee brought her to Knoxville several years ago. Emily’s been married for three years to her husband John and they have one son…but really, a dog named Newman. Balloons floating in the air and snakes on the ground prove to make Emily a little nervous. Nowhere is safe. Emily’s infectious personality and love of people will allow her to form strong bonds with our students.
TC Chambers was born and raised in Gastonia, NC. Don’t ask us where that is, we can’t be sure. He received a Bachelor Degree of Science in Religion from Liberty University. Two of TC’s favorite things to do are fishing and kayaking, but more than anything he loves sharing his life with his wife, Danielle. As a gifted drummer, obviously TC loves loud noises. But not too loud, he’s not a fan of hearing people drink or swallow. So watch your water/food intake in his presence. TC is a passionate worship leader with the skill to play numerous instruments. We are excited to see how he pours those talents into our students.
Julianne Poe is from the far away land of Hendersonville, Tn where the likes of Taylor Swift and Johnny Cash have called home. Because of her Taylor Swift-like curly hair many people confuse her with the singer and Julianne finds herself getting seated in restaurants much faster in her home town. Julianne graduated from The University of Tennessee in August with a degree in public relations and she served as an intern for The Walk for a year. Give the girl some cupcakes and good movies and she’s set for hours. Her genuine enthusiasm and love for others makes her an asset to our team.
Chris Jones is a wanderer, but an educated wandered. He has received degrees from Johnson Bible College and Liberty Baptist Seminary. He’s currently studying to receive a Masters of Divinity. He and his wife, Tami, have three children: Cara, Caleb and Camryn. (Do you sense the pattern?) Chris also has a nifty trick- he can make you see double. But really that’s his twin brother. He also currently works as a counselor at Let’s Talk 101, making him gifted in talking through life’s awkward moments. Chris’ ability to guide people and form relationships are important contributions to our Student Ministry.
Kaley Hollingsworth attends The University of Tennessee and is majoring in Child and Family Studies. She’s from Maryville, Tn and loves a rousing game of volleyball along with a good book. But not at the same time, that’s an injury waiting to happen. What’s Kaley’s greatest talent (ok, maybe not greatest, but definitely most fascinating)? Her mouth produces bubbles that float. Thanks to Kaley’s high-energy and ability to make others feel at ease, we know she’ll impact students in big ways.
Emily Powell is currently attending Pellissippi State and studying for a degree in Psychology. She's originally from Maryville, Tn but spent most of her childhood in Memphis, Tn. Emily went on to attend high school in Georgia and California. Clearly, she's a woman of the world. Ask her anything. And one more thing, she'd like for whoever is planning her funeral to remember one thing - play the "Banana Song." Emily's passion for students and obvious love of Christ make her a necessary part of our Student Ministry family.
Andrew Frazier is currently attending Johnson University where he majors in Preaching and Church Leadership. He is from Savannah, Georgia and before you ask, no he doesn’t wear a bonnet and carry a parasol. How does he spend his free time? Playing or writing music and running around a racquetball court. We just know one day he’ll write a hit song about the joys of racquetball, be watching for it on iTunes. Andrew’s passion for music and for leading students into a time of worship will allow students to experience God in a whole new way.
Matt Olafson already has one degree in science under his belt and plans to get another in Worship Leading at Johnson University. He already has lots of practical skills since he was once a bank teller, Waffle House cook, demolition crew leader and a cotton candy vendor. That’s quite the resume. When he’s perfecting his waffles, Matt plays his guitar, rides his bike and is always up for a good movie. If you really want to win him over, bring him a plate of Mexican food. Matt’s very passionate about Mexican food. With his ability to connect with students, we know Matt will a big part of God’s plans in Student Ministry.
