Conversations that Matter

The McKinney Center Announces Conversations that Matter

“Conversations that Matter” is a monthly online series from the McKinney Center where two local guests will explore their own culture and perspective, and talk to each other about what makes them unique, discover their similarities, and explore their differences. They will look at where their lives might intersect personally and in the community. The goal of each “Conversation that Matters” is for participants to hear real stories, from real neighbors.

The next event in this series will feature Alona Norwood and Tavia Sillmon, and will be moderated by Katelyn Yarbrough and Michelle Treece. It will take place on Thursday, May 13 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. Register at McKinneyCenter.com by clicking the “Register” button in the upper-righthand corner.

Alona Norwood, 22 years old, graduated from Berea College with a Bachelor of Arts in Peace and Social Justice. She is employed at East Tennessee PBS: Black in Appalachia as a historical researcher. As a local activist and co-founder of the grassroots organization New Generation Freedom Fighters, she works towards legislative reform with a focus on police brutality and racial justice. Norwood ran for local office in the 2020 Johnson City Commission election, in hopes of her campaign inspiring young people to get excited about their civil liberties. Alona also volunteers as the Johnson City-Washington County NAACP Branch Secretary. As a member in the 2021 class of Young Leaders for Social Change, Alona continues to explore ways in which she can take action with transformative outcomes.

Minister Tavia Sillmon received her ministerial licensure at Rushing Springs Baptist Church, Lincoln, Alabama in 1999, and her ordination papers in 2002. She is currently an Associate Minister at New Community Life-Johnson City, Tn. and the Youth Minister at Thankful Baptist Church in Johnson City, Tn. Tavia has worked as a social worker for 8 years in the state of Alabama. She is now the current President of the Johnson City/Washington County NAACP, Director of a Roadside Assistance Call Center for three years and employed by Frontier Health for three years-currently a Team Leader. Tavis has always had a love for people and a desire to see people be the best that they can be and tried to live by her great-grandmother’s motto: “Do right because it is the right thing to do.” Tavia married her high school sweetheart after college and has been married for over 30 years to Minister Ronald Sillmon. She is the mother of three adult children, Noelle, Seth, and Micah

This monthly series is inspired by the Diversity & Equity Subcommittee at the McKinney Center, and their desire to highlight the experiences of all voices in Washington County, Tn. By showcasing these conversations, the Diversity & Equity subcommittee hopes to open doors to new ideas and perspectives amongst our neighbors. Come ready to ask questions in the zoom chat!

About the McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington: The mission of the McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington is to provide a comprehensive program through Jonesborough’s Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts which teaches various art skills to all participants through a quality program of instruction open to all segments of Jonesborough’s population. In addition, a primary mission of the Center is to enhance minority participation in the planning and implementation in all activities in Jonesborough while specifically celebrating the contribution of the African-American community in the growth and development of the Town. The activities of the McKinney Center are designed to enhance the quality of life of all Jonesborough residents.

About Town of Jonesborough: A unique 18th century town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee, Jonesborough’s natural beauty, charming architecture, and storytelling heritage have attracted visitors worldwide. Stay a day, a week or forever, and create your own stories in beautiful Historic Jonesborough. Visit www.jonesborough.com for more information.