Lacey Wilson, 35
President, Walker County Chamber; M.A. in Public Relations; Accredited in Public Relations (APR); Former marketing manager, Blood Assurance; Past president, PRSA Lookout Chapter; Mom to Cooper, age 2
Who's your favorite "Game of Thrones" character?
To be honest, in this season of life that I'm in now, my TV is usually on "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" or "Muppet Babies." I've not seen the first episode of GOT. Terrible, I know!
Which GOT character do you think you would be?
I usually find myself identifying with the underdog of any plot. I also pull for the supporting actors and the ones quietly working behind the scenes, because in TV and in real life, those are usually the ones who effect change.
Last book you read and/or show you binge-watched?
Book: "Grace, Not Perfection" by Emily Ley. Show: "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel."
If you ruled the world (or Chattanooga), what would you change?
As a communications major, I know the importance of effective communication. So much of the discourse I see in business, in politics - in everything, really - results from a failure to understand things from another point of view. It doesn't mean we all have to agree, but when we're able to understand things from someone else's perspective, it makes progress so much more attainable. Encouraging others to work through their differences in order to collaborate for the greater good is something I would put at the top of the list.
Who would be on your advisory council?
That one is easy: the [Walker County Chamber's] current board of directors. Our meetings have become so engaging and energetic, and I've never met a group more passionate about serving their community. We share a similar vision of bringing folks to the same table to drive our community forward. We were strategic in selecting a diverse group of representatives from the business community. The synergy right now between our organization and our city, county and economic development partners has made it an exciting time in Walker County, and I'm excited to see what we can accomplish by continuing to work together.
Is ruler a position you'd even want?
I don't think you necessarily have to have a title to be a leader. Some people have the title but aren't equipped to lead. Others lead by example every day but may not consider themselves a ruler. For me, I think leadership is more about gaining buy-in from those who are serving alongside you, and steering the ship in a collective direction.
What drives you professionally and/or personally?
I have a desire to learn and a creative spirit, along with a strong work ethic instilled in me by my parents and grandparents. I'm also a bit stubborn at times, so that helps.
What's one thing you'd really like to accomplish? Has that goal changed over the years?
For me, I've always wanted my professional work to make a difference. I have been fortunate to do that through two wonderful organizations. The first was as a marketing manager for Blood Assurance. Helping patients in need of blood transfusions by communicating the vital importance of donating was something I took very seriously, and I know the work I did mattered. When I decided to take the position at the Walker County Chamber, I knew this role would give me an opportunity to do impactful work on behalf of my hometown. It's very rewarding to think that what we're doing now as an organization can make our part of the world a better place for my son to live in the years to come. Wherever my career may take me in the years to come, I know that meaningful work will always be a top priority for me.