Ruth Williams-Brinkley’s Journey of Leadership and Change Celebrated

As Women’s History Month unfolds, the Chattanooga News Chronicle celebrates the extraordinary career of Ruth Williams-Brinkley, a healthcare leader whose impact extends far beyond her years of service.

For over four decades, Williams-Brinkley championed health equity, tirelessly working to dismantle disparities rooted in race, economics, and environment. Her journey, marked by executive leadership roles across prestigious healthcare systems, culminated in her recent retirement from Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic as regional president.

Chattanooga holds a special place in her heart. In 2002, she was appointed interim CEO of Memorial Healthcare System, and her leadership quickly solidified her as the permanent choice, a position she held until 2008.

“I miss the beauty, the physical beauty of Chattanooga,” Williams-Brinkley, who now lives in Virginia, said in a recent phone interview.

Chattanooga is such a beautiful place. I miss that. But I think also, so you can be in a beautiful place with unbeautiful people. But the people in Chattanooga were so nice to me, and always are. It feels like home to me.”

She continued, “I like the beauty, but I would say that I love the people first of all. I would put that as number one. And, you know it feels to me, I don’t know how it is now–but it feels to me that people try to work together across racial and ethnic groups. That may not be the way it is now, but that’s how I felt. There was a lot more cooperation, and so that was always nice. Those are the things I miss about Chattanooga. But I think what I miss most of all is the people.”

During her tenure at Memorial, she led the organization to significant achievements, including state recognition as one of the Best Places to Work in Tennessee for two consecutive years and national recognition for high-quality patient care, excellence in cardiac care, and patient safety goals for three consecutive years. She also secured a Certificate of Need for a $320 million renovation and expansion project in the Glenwood community.

Williams-Brinkley’s extensive community involvement in Chattanooga included serving as past chair of the Chattanooga Area Hospital District of the Tennessee Hospital Association, and serving on the boards of the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce; SunTrust Bank; Chattem, Inc.; The Women’s Leadership Institute; and United Way.

Her illustrious career is punctuated by accolades, including multiple appearances on Modern Healthcare’s “Top 25 Women in Healthcare” and “Top 25 Minority Executives in Healthcare” lists, and being named one of “2020’s 100 Most Influential People.”

Though she stepped away from formal leadership roles, retirement hasn’t slowed Williams-Brinkley down. She’s still active with her “passion projects,” including a year of extensive travel.

“I did some travel last year,” she recalled, “a U.S. road trip, Mexico, and then Africa.”
She’s also turned her attention to mentoring and innovation, becoming an executive coach and consulting with healthcare startups on AI implementation.

“I really believe in giving back to the younger generation of leaders,” she shared.

This commitment to others is balanced by her focus on personal health and well-being.

“I’ve started on a serious health improvement journey,” she explained. “You know, when you’re working, it’s hard to prioritize your own health. Sometimes we let our own health go to the wayside. And I did that.”

Retirement has allowed her to fully embrace the benefits of regular exercise and healthy eating, resulting in a marked improvement in her overall well-being.

“I feel better,” she said. “I have more energy. So all that stuff they say about exercise and so forth really does work.”

Maintaining a consistent routine has become a priority for her, a change that came with leaving full-time work.

“I try to go to the gym three times a week, and I try to walk about 10,000 steps every day,” she said. “I don’t get it in every day, but I try to get it in most days. And that’s not something I could do when I was working. I guess I could have, if I had put my mind to it, but it would have required a longer day than I could handle.”

Understanding life’s fragility is central to Williams-Brinkley’s philosophy.

“Life is not promised,” she reflected. “I lost my husband. Many people have lost their spouses, or they’ve lost family members, or loved ones. So you have to make every day matter.”

By Camm Ashford

Journalism Trailblazer Rosetta Miller-Perry honored during Women’s History Month

During this 2025 Women’s History Month, the Chattanooga News Chronicle proudly honors a trailblazer in journalism and civil rights, Rosetta Miller-Perry, the unofficially deemed “Mother of the Black Press.” With a career spanning decades, Miller-Perry has profoundly impacted the African American community through her work as a journalist, publisher, entrepreneur and civil rights advocate.

In 1990, she founded Perry and Perry Associates and launched Contempora magazine. The following year, she established The Tennessee Tribune, an African American newspaper focused on issues often neglected by mainstream media, such as health, education and voter registration. Her passion for truth and representation led to the publication becoming a trusted voice for the Black community in Tennessee and beyond.

Miller-Perry’s commitment to journalism extends beyond publishing. She established the Anthony J. Cebrun Journalism Center in 1998 to train and mentor young Black journalists, ensuring that future generations would continue telling their own stories.

In November 2021, Miller-Perry made history once again when The Tennessee Tribune, in partnership with Skyport Hospitality and ACDBE owner/operator Jennifer Winchester, opened two retail stores at Nashville International Airport (BNA). The Tribune Stores, located in Southwest Airlines’ hub, serve as a marketplace for over 120 small and minority-owned businesses, offering a wide array of products from apparel to fine art and locally produced foods.

Competing with major brands, the Tribune Stores have been a success, ranking among the top 10 performers in sales at BNA. This groundbreaking initiative reflects Miller-Perry’s dedication to economic empowerment and diversity, providing a national platform for Black entrepreneurs.

Born Rosetta Irvin in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, on July 7, 1934, Miller-Perry spent her early childhood living on her aunt’s houseboat.

Graduating from Coraopolis Senior High School in 1952, she continued her education at Howard University and Herzl Community College (now Malcolm X College, a City Colleges of Chicago campus specializing in healthcare) before receiving a B.S. in chemistry from the University of Memphis.

In 1958, while working at Southern Funeral Home in Nashville, Miller-Perry attended Tennessee State University before pursuing nursing training at Meharry Medical College.

Her early career included serving in the U.S. Navy and later working with the U.S. Civil Rights Commission and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). During the 1960s, she worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), witnessing and documenting key moments in the Civil Rights Movement, including the Memphis Garbage Strike and the tragic aftermath of Dr. King’s assassination.

A lifetime of dedication has earned Miller-Perry numerous accolades, including induction into the Tennessee Women’s Hall of Fame and the National Newspaper Publishers Association Award. Her contributions to education and the arts are immortalized through the Rosetta I. Miller Scholarship at Memphis State University and the Rosetta Miller-Perry Award for Best Film by a Black Filmmaker at the Nashville Film Festival.

At 90 years old, Miller-Perry remains actively involved with The Tennessee Tribune, working both from the office and her home. Her motto, “Things Get Better With Time,” reflects her steadfast belief in progress and justice.

From civil rights activism to entrepreneurship, Miller-Perry’s life exemplifies perseverance, vision and commitment to community empowerment. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, the Chattanooga News Chronicle salutes her groundbreaking contributions that have forever changed the landscape of Black journalism and business.

By Camm Ashford

Dr. Tiundra Love’s Passion for Service Recognized During Women’s History Month

In honor of Women’s History Month, the Chattanooga News Chronicle shines a spotlight on Dr. Tiundra L. Love, a dedicated physician and community leader whose contributions are making a significant impact on the region.

Dr. Love’s extensive career showcases a commitment to both medicine and community service.

She received her Osteopathic Medical Degree from the Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in 2009. Furthering her training, she completed an internal medicine residency at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine at Erlanger in 2012.

Her medical experience spans various roles, including her current position as an Internal Medicine specialist. Previously, she served as the Department Chair of Internal Medicine and Assistant Professor at Auburn-VCOM, overseeing clinical education and curriculum development. Dr. Love also dedicated several years as an Internal Medicine Primary Care Physician at the Chattanooga Veterans Administration Clinic, serving U.S. military veterans with preventative and chronic disease management.

She also holds multiple certifications, including Board Certified Internal Medicine (ABIM) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with the American National Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Dr. Love’s dedication extends beyond clinical practice. She is the founder of C.A.R.E.A.M.O.R. Wellness, an annual event that provides free health services to the communities in the 37403, 37404 and 37405 zip codes.

“I have never thought of anything other than just wanting to have an indelible mark to serve,” Dr. Love explained. “I just love helping where and when I can.”

C.A.R.E.A.M.O.R. stands for Committed to Access, Research, and Education while Advocating and Mentoring for Opportunities and Resources. This entity has been providing services for eight years, and will be celebrating its 8th anniversary in December of 2025.

In 2023, Dr. Love received the “Woman of Zeal” award from the Gamma Iota Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, recognizing her community and civic-minded efforts, her dedication to social justice and her commitment to improving the well-being of others. This award was presented during the sorority’s “Tea with Z” event, honoring the life and contributions of Zora Neale Hurston.

Dr. Love is also actively involved in numerous organizations, including The Links, Incorporated; the National Coalition of 100 Black Women; and the United Way of Greater Chattanooga Advisory Board.

By Camm Ashford

Marsha J. Drake, Ed.D. – Writing “Herstory”

Leadership borne from a passion, a skillset that transcends careers which includes time management and a mindset to learn and grow, along with personal resilience, more often known as grit in the south, Dr. Marsha Drake is a Chattanooga woman making history.

Grandiose? No. She’s writing her own story for her personal legacy, her family, her community, and our good. Good communities come when people are devoted to causes bigger than themselves and require working together with others to make the good happen.

Dr. Marsha Drake currently leads as the Chief Equity Officer of Hamilton County Public Schools.

Working is such a capacity guarantees the skills needed to communicate effectively, clearly, and in a collaborative manner across all sorts of titles, job descriptions, and personalities in the second largest employer in Hamilton County. The Hamilton County Department of Education has 5,781 employees according the Chattanooga Chamber’s 12/31/24 directory.

Being a hometown success, Dr. Drake was gracious to give of her time for an interview with the Chattanooga News Chronicle (CNC). The working mom who has devoted 28 years to educational leadership and excellence offers great advice to all on her personal success. Gleaning the best practices of others is a secret to any achiever. Enjoy!

CNC: What would you say to women aspiring for their own success in careers and professional pursuits while being a wife, mom, significant other, and good neighbor?

Dr. Drake: Balancing these roles successfully requires strong leadership, time management, and personal resilience.

As an Educator & Chief of Equity and Advocacy, I’d advise specific focus:

• Vision & Strategy – Stay focused on long-term goals while addressing immediate challenges.
• Effective Communication – Foster open dialogue with teachers, co-workers, students, and parents. Build strong relationships and trust across all people.
• Adaptability & Innovation – Education is constantly evolving. Stay informed about best practices and be open to implementing new strategies for student learning and district operations.
• Empowerment & Delegation – Support your team and trust them to execute. Encourage professional development and autonomy across all school leaders.
• Work-Life Boundaries – As a leader, it’s easy to get caught up in work. Set boundaries to ensure you don’t burn out and can bring your best self to all aspects of your life.
As a Wife & Mother
• Quality Over Quantity – You may not always have a lot of time, but making the time you do have meaningful matters more. Prioritize family rituals/traditions, even small ones.
• Teamwork & Communication – A strong partnership with your spouse means clear expectations, shared responsibilities, and mutual support.
• Intentional Presence – When you’re with your family, be fully present. Put the phone down, engage, and create lasting memories.
• Self-Care & Grace – Don’t neglect your well-being. A strong, healthy, and happy you benefits both your family and your career.
• Flexibility & Letting Go of Perfection – Things won’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. Learn to pivot and embrace the journey.

CNC: Are there non-negotiables you’ve found to your success journey?

Dr. Drake: Two. You must be your own biggest advocate—whether in the boardroom, the classroom, or at home. Set clear boundaries to protect your time, energy, and priorities. Second, remember, no one succeeds alone. Build and lean on a diverse network of mentors, colleagues, friends, and family who support, uplift, and respectfully call you out.

CNC: What are potential pitfalls or trials you had to navigate that you would warn others of in their own pursuits as a woman seeking her greatest opportunities?

Dr. Drake: There are several that I would like to caution other women of, but I will focus on two:

• Avoid overcommitting and thinking that you have to please everyone, feeling the need to prove yourself by saying yes to everything (extra projects, responsibilities, duties, etc.) Prioritizing tasks that align with your goals, learning to say “NO” with confidence and without any guilt.
• Beware of the impostor syndrome – doubting your abilities and feeling like you don’t belong even though you have earned the degree/degrees and have the years of work experience required. Instead, see that in fact, you’re overqualified. Own your expertise. I encourage you to keep a “success journal” with your achievements to remind yourself of your value.

Each woman writes her own story. Dr. Marsha Drake still has her pen in hand and is making “Herstory” in the Chattanooga community. Let’s keep cheering her on, encourage others to do the same, and dare to pick up the pen. That’s when our communities gain strength and we’re our best selves.

By Robin Smith

AMANDA JELKS……Writing Her Story and Inspiring Others

But then…”

This phrase was used by Amanda (Ray) Jelks in her self-talk as a teenage mother at 15 years young. She desired to have ready and rehearsed the “But then” response when asked about his birth and her circumstances by her newborn son who would eventually grow up. She wanted to pivot the focus of any question he might ask or anyone else for that matter to the “but then” of her life from the decisions made to look forward and not back, to move on, to sacrifice, work hard, and give him better than she knew or desired as a young girl.

Amanda Jelks is a self-made, God favored woman whose passions drive her, just like the fuel from the naysayers scattered through her life.

Chattanooga News Chronicle (CNC) was blessed to have time with Ms. Jelks, with her 13-year-old daughter watching life in action, to gather a few words of inspiration for all women of Chattanooga to read during Women’s History Month.

Take in these exchanges framed by the imagery of a successful woman speaking with passion, intellect, and compassion.

CNC: Please share a few keys to your own success that others might apply in their pursuits of personal attainment.

Ms. Jelks: Be willing to sacrifice for your goals. Be willing to put your head down, work hard, and keep telling yourself to “Keep going!”
I grew up hearing that all you had to do was to work hard to get what you wanted. In large part, that’s true. It was my decision, and the success rested with me. I had to have the mindset and put in the work…even with a baby.

As I accomplished personal goals and earned by Bachelors in Science, some were surprised I kept wanting to grow and achieve. When I entertained law school as 21-year-old single parent, I was questioned. I knew and said to others, “In three years, I’ll be 24 years old whether I go to law school or not. Those three years will pass either way. Why not keep going?!”

If you’re going to work for a specific goal, you have to have a persistent mindset. You have to persevere.

CNC: What a few absolutes or “must do’s” you’d recommend to women looking to achieve more in whatever pursuits they’re chasing?

Ms. Jelks: Work for and be known for a reputation of integrity. I define that to be one who has the confidence and courage to do what you say, has the confidence and courage to own your own missteps and mistakes, has the confidence and courage to say, “I’m sorry” and ask for forgiveness, and has the confidence and courage to believe in yourself to do more.

Another thing. Don’t settle for something less if you believe in yourself. I heard often, “Well, it’s better than it used to be.” Well, that’s not always good or the best for you or the best of you.

CNC: Speaking from your experiences, what warnings might you offer women, who characteristically have so many roles – wife, mother, caregiver, breadwinner, friend, volunteer, and the list goes on?

Ms. Jelks: Learn to say, “No.” Every person has to set priorities. The word “No” comes easier to people who are focused on their priorities. With a little grace and Southern charm, we can make that a gentle, friendly “No.” But your goals often fall to the wayside when you’re carrying the loads of others.

A big one for me was in dealing with naysayers as I made efforts to accomplish my goals. Who were they? They were the people who knew me longest and best. Many were family. The naysayers first told me that I’d never finish high school. I did. Then I was told that was good enough. I wouldn’t complete college. I did. I was asked why I thought that wasn’t enough and even questioned if I could be a good mother in the future by pursuing law school and a demanding career. I heard their words, but I listened louder to my own heart. I heard the same fear-laced questions when I launched my own firm after leaving the security of a large law firm.

Know yourself. Know your purpose. Then keep going. Do it in love, but keep going.

CNC: Is there a slogan, motto, or inspirational verse you turn to or would assign as a life verse?

Ms. Jelks: Yes. When I found myself completely dependent upon others with a newborn baby at 15 years old, I had a desire for my son, now 24 years old, to have all that I never did. I wanted him, and now my other two children, to have unlimited opportunities and encouragement. I knew I’d be more accountable as a mother for choices I made with a son who depended upon me. That’s when I found my relationship with Jesus. In reading more of His word, I found Proverbs 27:7 at 17 years old. I understood that to mean one whose soul is complete and at rest is satisfied and full; one whose soul is starving and incomplete will settle for even the bitter.

In the Passion Translation Ms. Jelk’s life verse declares, “When your soul is full, you turn down even the sweetest honey. But when your soul is starving, every bitter thing becomes sweet.” These words were explained as a woman-in-the-making was listening to the interview, Ms. Jelks’ 13-year-old daughter.

CNC gave her the final word. “My mom is very kind. She works very hard. She teaches me through her work and even lets me work with her.”

Two women writing their stories as women of Chattanooga creating their best futures.

By Robin Smith